All of us, you and us, grow, propagate, produce plants that bring forth fruit. We are rightly proud of this. But when we watch the news in between these days, it all suddenly seems meaningless. Yes, we propagate, care for and supply our Lubera Edilbes young plants. In Ukraine, Ukrainians are fighting for their lives. They are fighting for their freedom, which is also ours. With their heroic efforts and their willingness to make sacrifices, they are also protecting our freedom.
For those of us born in the 1960s, the Iron Curtain was still a reality. Its fall was a decisive life event, a freedom experience. And as gardeners we were inclined to find the slogan "Swords to Ploughshares", at least sympathetic. What could be more natural to us, we thought, than to exchange weapons for the spade. This is the wicked irony of Russian crimes, that we must learn again, without swords it will not work.
As gardeners, we don't do politics. But this is not really about politics, it is about crime. However, we will not put the spade aside because of this, but we must publicly and clearly express our admiration for the fight of the Ukrainians. They deserve every support for this, and not only through corresponding declarations of intent, but through action.
As Lubera Edibles, and also on behalf of our staff (yes and there are Ukrainians among them!), we will be donating €5,000 to Ukraine Aid this week. The aim is to support Rotary in the purchase of ambulances, urgently needed because of the many injured and sick, but also simply because ambulances are also a victim of Russian aggression. Through personal contacts with the helpers on the ground, we ensure that the ambulance really arrives where it can provide help. Our sister company Lubera AG is also donating 10% of its weekly turnover to the Ukraine Aid this week. We hope to raise € 15-25,000 there.
So, now roll up your sleeves and let's continue gardening together. After all, spring does not wait for us humans who are once again at odds with each other. Nature sets the pace, we gardeners follow and remain optimistic.
Long live freedom, long live Ukraine!
