Dad, "do not worry. I will be fine for telling the truth."

These words. 

This moment 

moved me. 

I too was born

in the Soviet Union

where I know

- like in many other countries around the word -

it would not have been

safe

to speak up

or to speak out;

where it would not 

have been safe 

to speak the truth.

Perhaps it is the absence of,

knowing what it means to go without,

that makes one treasure 

liberty and savor it

- that makes one yearn so audaciously

to preserve it,

to uphold it,

to defend it.

I am #grateful

for the #freedom of speech.

#freedomofspeech #USA

Lt. Col. Vindman spoke these words on Nov 19, 2019 in his opening statement to the House Intelligence Committee. The Pentagon "has protections for whistleblowers -- they're guaranteed in law," said Defense Secretary Mark Esper.

#speakup #speakout