Well done, local church members who rang bells March 3 in honor of those killed in Ukraine in the first week of Russia’s invasion; and kudos to First Congregational Church and St. Philip’s Church in their March 6 services for asking for people’s protection in Ukraine and guidance for world leaders.

What a stark and important time in the world, with the killing and displacement of civilians; killings and destruction so senseless in an invasion so needless. I cry when I watch. The seasoned reporters there cry. How do they dare stay? But as noted here last week, we should all remain thankful they do, so the world is aware of the manifold atrocities, and people who live in nations that are not shutting down the coverage can think about how they can help as nations and personally.

At press time, the U.S. was eyeing whether or not to keep importing Russian oil. I have been boycotting worldwide businesses still open in Russia. I can’t think of a penny of mine going to a nation killing families and prompting a million-plus people to pack onto train after train to flee, eight decades after people were put on trains to concentration camps.

If you have a Ukrainian flag out, are doing any fundraising or otherwise showing support for a nation under attack, please email news@wiscassetnewspaper.com. St. Philip’s Priest in Charge Tom Junkert said to watch for its Facebook page to share soon how people can help by giving to the Episcopal Relief and Development Fund.

Week’s positive parting thought: As of March 20, spring is 10 days off, at last. Hope to soon see the daffodils on Wiscasset common.