21 Comments
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Veronique Christophe's avatar

Dear Darya, thank you for your latest wonderful letter from the heart. Each and every one is a gem. The process of researching and writing pieces like yours indeed takes time and effort - it sounds very close to home as in the past year and a half I have written a few pieces (always tied to the war, and in support of Ukraine) on a personal blog. I found it to be very intensive, but like you, fulfilling and worthwhile. I admire you for how you write and do all of it, and would certainly encourage you to continue with it. I will send you a private message about my own writing soon, and some further thoughts, if that is okay with you?

I will certainly consider support going forward, and will be happy to spread the word because I think your writing is deserving of broad readership. With affection from Belgium, Veronique

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Dear Veronique, thank you for your kindness and support! Your words always bring so much encouragement. I’ll be happy to read your work!

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Veronique Christophe's avatar

Dear Darya, I have been behind on some of my Substack reading but I will try to write you a message soon. Meanwhile, congratulations on your precious article on the inspiring life story of Lesia Ukrainka - truly beautiful and amazing writing!

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Thank you!

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Caroline Smrstik's avatar

Thank you for opening more eyes and ears to the beauty of Eastern Europe, Darya.

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Thank you, Caroline!

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Brian's avatar

Carry on the work Darya. You have introduced me to some fantastic new artists and I am so grateful for those new experiences.

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Thank you for your support, Brian!

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Mark Lagus's avatar

Thanks to you, we have heard the beautiful Belarusian language voicing words which connect to one's soul. Thanks to your weekly letters, we know more about this corner of the world--not as much as it deserves but much much more than we otherwise would have--and this makes our weeks richer. With the words, comes the food and recipes of home. Thank you Darya.

For many reasons, I have become proudly Eastern European.

We urge everyone who can support to support...

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Mark, thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement! Eastern Europeans have been subjugated and looked down upon for a long time, but it’s time to break free from this oppression and stereotypes. I’m happy to do my part.

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Mark Lagus's avatar

And so are we!

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Natalia's avatar

Dear Darya, I only recently found you, but now I eagerly await your emails letting me know that you've written another of your beautiful pieces. Your work means a great deal to so many people, and it's also a way to make a difference in their lives. What you do is more valuable than we can offer, but please know that I will always do what I can for Ukraine and its incredible people, and also for the Belarusians who stand up to tyranny and spread their precious culture. I don't have the resources to become a subscriber right now, but I'd like to send you some money until, God willing, I can upgrade to a higher membership (and then we'll both celebrate!).

All my love from Spain.

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement, Natalia! I’m glad to have you among my readers!

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Valerie Starr's avatar

Stay vocal and strong. All these stories should be heard. Thank you for your hard work and loving words in support of the writers,

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Thank you, Valerie!

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Courtenay Jane's avatar

I look forward to your updates every week, because they always brighten my days, make me think and educate me about a fascinating and beautiful region that I love so much. The world so badly needs to hear more about the real Eastern Europe that you share with us and not the russian and movie stereotype of it as grey and corrupt. The people and countries are so, so much more than that. Love and respect ❤️

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Thank you so much, Courtenay! ❤️

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Paul's avatar

Thank you so much for your work, Darya. I went ahead and upgraded to a paid subscription with you. Been meaning to do it for a while now. I think your voice recording of Belarusian poetry was really cool btw.

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Thank you for your support, Paul! It means a lot to hear that you liked the recordings, as it took me so much time and courage to make them!

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Claudia Radomska's avatar

Look forward to read and explore more of the artist you write about, dear Darya! 🙏🏼❤️🥰

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Darya Zorka's avatar

Thank you, Claudia! Can’t wait to share the second part about Lesia Ukrainka!

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