Join Me in Poland to Help the Ukrainian Refugees

Have you ever reached a point where you've asked, "Is this all there is? Have I grown so complacent that I take life's amazingness and joy for granted? Is there something else I should be doing?" Finally awakened by the devastation and loss of lives in Ukraine, that question was recently answered for me. My soul softly spoke, and for once, I listened.

Hi, I'm Mike MIkkelsson, and I live in Lehigh Acres, Florida. I'll be traveling to either Warsaw, Poland or to Przemysl (pronounced SHEM-eh-shoal), near the Ukraine border, from mid-April 2022 until approximately the last week in May. I'll be volunteering in whatever way I can to help the Ukrainian refugees. At this writing, March 18, 2022, it's unclear exactly where I'll be going, in what capacity I'll be serving, or with whom, where I'll sleep or eat... it's all unknown for now.

I'm trying to raise funds for the round-trip airfare, accommodations for about 45 nights, food, a SIM card for Poland's phone system or AT&T’s International Calling Plan, travel/medical insurance, and transportation (hopefully by Uber). Other items such as warm boots and gloves (who needs those in Florida?), a much-needed eye exam, and a trip to the dentist before leaving are also in the works.

My neighbor has graciously offered to take care of my sweet dog Cali. I'm between jobs, so there won't be income until I return sometime late in May.

What will I be doing there? Maybe handing out blankets or hot food, custodial work, sorting donated inventory, helping direct refugees to the proper stations... I have no idea. But I'm taking everything I'll need: caring, compassion, empathy, love, attentive ears for listening, and two arms for hugs when needed.

I've been in touch through Facebook with the Director of a great NGO called Love Without Borders. This organization does most of its volunteer work in Greece, helping refugees from Syria, Afghanistan and African countries. She's currently in Poland, assessing the needs so they can offer assistance there too. She's been a great source of information, despite her hectic schedule. Thank you, Kayra!

What do I expect? To be amazed at the dedication of volunteers, the bravery and strength of the Ukrainians who cross that border, and the generosity of the Polish people who've opened their hearts and homes.

I'm also expecting to learn more about who I am and to understand the value that every one of us contributes to this ever-awakening collective consciousness. I'm guessing I'll be utterly wiped out at the end of this journey but refreshed and rejuvenated with this gift of life I often dismiss. I imagine my perception of discomfort will fade quite a bit in light of what I'll witness.

Am I doing this for myself or others? As my dear soul-friend quietly reflected recently, is one reason of any less value than the other? It's a journey back to self, and we can find our way there so much easier by helping others. With your help, I'll be covered every step of the way.

I'll provide weekly updates to let you know how things progress with the trip plans. Because the situation is so fluid - daily changes are inevitable - there will be many adjustments to this adventure! Being unable to control all the details is part of this lesson: holding on causes stress; letting go lets it flow.

Thank you for sharing this journey with me. Let's go!