“When I was contacted by Tamara to schedule a portrait session, she mentioned that she was here all by herself in the United States.
Upon hearing her beautiful accent I learned she was from Lviv, Ukraine and that she was also a professional rhythmic gymnast and contemporary/modern dancer.
At that moment I knew exactly what type of portrait session this needed to be.
I was able to find the perfect soft flowing fabric in the colors of the Ukrainian flag for her to dance with.
Together, we created Tamaraâs tribute to her homeland.
Having just discovered that my great grandfather immigrated from Kyiv in 1906, this project takes on a whole new meaning for me.
With my own Ukrainian roots, I feel a new sense of honor and empowerment to be descended from such strong, courageous, and resilient people.
ŃлаĐČĐ° ĐŁĐșŃĐ°ŃĐœŃ ~ Glory To Ukraine
In the hopes that these images will inspire a reaction towards the greater good, weâve set up a GoFundMe to assist a 6-year-old girl named Vlada who fled the war in Ukraine to Italy with nothing but the clothes on her back.
Although we canât help every refugee, we can start by helping one and begin a domino effect of kindness and compassion.
Even the smallest act of caring for another person is like a drop of water. It will make ripples throughout the entire pond.”
A dream is sweeter than honey. – Ukrainian Proverb

Love will find a way. Indifference will find an excuse. – Ukrainian Proverb

If the devil is powerless, send him a woman. – Ukrainian Proverb

With patience, it is possible to dig a well with a teaspoon. – Ukrainian Proverb

The fear of death takes away from the simple joy of living. – Ukrainian Proverb

Every road has two directions. – Ukrainian Proverb

Fire starts with sparks. – Ukrainian Proverb

He that fears death may inhibit his entire life. – Ukrainian Proverb

Health is more important than wealth; good health is above wealth. – Ukrainian Proverb

It is easier to destroy than to build. – Ukrainian Proverb

Respect yourself, or no one else will respect you. – Ukrainian Proverb

Saying and doing are two things. – Ukrainian Proverb

It is love that makes the world go round. – Ukrainian Proverb

Still waters run deep. – Ukrainian Proverb

What can’t be cured must be endured. – Ukrainian Proverb

Wise men learn by other men’s mistakes; fools by their own. – Ukrainian Proverb

You donât really see the world if you only look through your own window. – Ukrainian Proverb

Live one century â study one century. – Ukrainian Proverb

Luck always seems to be against the man who depends on it. – Ukrainian ProverbÂ

This story was submitted to Love What Matters by Marla Michele Must, MPP, Master Portrait Artist. Link to the GoFundMe here. You can follow Marla on Instagram, Facebook, and her website. Submit your story here, and be sure to subscribe to our best love stories here.
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