Personal Reflections on Life and Death Amid Russian Strikes

A Ukrainian journalist writes about constantly thinking about death, not only because Russia sends hundreds of threats to his life every night but largely because of that. After seeing photos of a missile strike on a building identical to his own, he realizes that hiding in the bathroom as usual would not have saved him. This realization changes daily habits: he stops scheduling messages for Monday mornings, fearing Russia might kill him over the weekend. A seven-step skincare routine seems pointless when wrinkles may never appear – nowadays, wrinkles are a privilege. A doctor's advice to give up life's small pleasures to extend life makes him question whether a long life is guaranteed. Despite these thoughts, there is an undeniable hunger for life. He has considered writing a will (costing 3,000 UAH) and finally signed up for posthumous organ donation to remain useful. His last birthday was spent in tears, especially after receiving a tourniquet matching his eye color as a gift. However, comfort comes from people who readily agree to write his obituary, be included in his will, care for his cat, and know his funeral playlist. The article was written during yet another air raid alert.