Today it’s Polish Independence Day. It is the 100th anniversary of the restoration of Poland’s independence.
In general, I believe that many people can love and hate one’s homeland at the same time. I am not an exception. The fact is that I often think about Poland in a bittersweet mood. I remember my country as a genuinely grey and ordinary place, especially during the early ’90. Is that mean that the people were also dull? Of course not. In general, I believe that most of the people who walk on this planet are appealing. Everyone has their own exciting story. The same is today. My country is still no longer a boring place. Many unusual events are happening in Warsaw, the capital of Poland, practically every day. Most of the people who live here look like they are happy that they live in this place, and at this time.
The fact is that during my lifetime, I was able to observe a magnificent transformation of the post-communist country to the well-prosperous, almost Western capitalist state.
Nevertheless, I think that we can also say about other countries that they are also bittersweet. There are no better or worse countries. Also, there are no better or worse people. We are all different. Every one of us has its pros and cons. Widely understood genius and stupidity do not know the limits of time or territoriality. Geniuses and idiots were, are, and will be born in every time and every place on Earth.
What is the conclusion of all this?
Let’s respect each other. Simply. Ultimately, we will all die. Isn’t it better to leave a good, favorable testimony for posterity? Isn’t it better to respect others, no matter where other people come from?
Pictures presented in this post are a tribute to Poland and all its inhabitants. These images are also bittersweet, the same as my homeland.
