13/365: Freedom Isn't Free

As a Lithuanian, it is important for me to remember my country's history. January 13th is a date in which we, as Lithuanian people, remember that "freedom isn't free." We thank those who put their lives in danger to defend those freedoms and we reflect on and remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. 

On the 11th of March 1990, Lithuania declared independence from the Soviet Union but the months that followed saw difficult economic times in a country that was not yet widely recognised. Due to increased unrest in some Lithuanian minority groups and increased disorder in the country (to put it very simply), Gorbachev ordered the immediate restoration of the Constitution of the Soviet Union, and refused to rule out military force to make that happen. 

As Soviet Special Forces and troops began preparations and flew into Lithuania, Lithuanian civilians began preparations of their own to defend key civilian sites. These included the Press House, the Parliament (where my Mother chose to be), and the TV Tower (where one of my Uncles chose to be). Other parts of the Lithuanian side of my family were at different locations, defending different sites, but I can't be sure where. 

Lithuanians, in the freezing winter cold, remained at these locations for days awaiting Soviet Troops. In some cases, they never came. But in others, they did. At the Press House, Soviet Troops fired live ammunition at unarmed civilians. When news of this circulated, my Mother and her friends feared for their lives at the Parliament building. It seemed obvious that this was where they might come for next. Fortunately, that never happened. 

At the TV Tower 14 Lithuanian Heroes are shot and/or crushed by tanks in a vile attempt at repressing the will of the Lithuanian people. Two of the victims were just 18 years old. 

In February 1991, Iceland was the first nation to recognise Lithuania's independence on the international stage, which began Lithuania's path to international recognition. So, although we remember the thousands of Lithuanians who gave their lives or died before they could see an independent Lithuania again, on January 13th we remember those who died on this specific day a little more. They represent the thousands of others and the will of the Lithuanian people.

I am grateful that because of them, I was born into a free Lithuania and am able to enjoy the world as a free Lithuanian. 

Freedom isn't free and it is something we must work toward and for every single day.