It’s Finnish Independence Day! In fact, it’s the 100th anniversary.
Happy Anniversary, Finland!
On this day in 1917, Finland broke free from Russia. Historically, Finland had to break free a lot–its neighbors didn’t respect it, but the Finn’s sisu (a uniquely Finnish characteristic involving perseverance and stubbornness and quiet resolve) has freed it time and again and kept its culture and language unique.
(Independence did not, by the way, stop Russia from re-invading during WWII. And for some reason, the Finns had to pay a war debt for defending their own country. Apparently, since the allies won, and since Russia was an ally, the Finns were supposed to just say, “sure, c’mon in, the sauna is all warmed up for you.”)
When I was in Finland several years ago, I spotted this painting in the national museum:
I was drawn to it immediately.
“Yeah, girl! Protect that book!”
Of course, I discovered it wasn’t just celebrating bibliophilia.
The woman is the maiden of Finland, defending the rule of law against the Russian eagle.
As we celebrate Finnish independence today, let’s all take a moment to consider the sad fact that we need a picture just like this, with the Statue of Liberty instead. Or Mueller. Or a donkey.
