Córka Warszawy, Matka Przemiany
Who is the daughter of this fabled city, and what change did she bring? We will get to that in time.
First, let us discuss the field of science. This, in one sense, is the pursuit of knowledge regarding how we might relate the varying pieces of our natural world with each other, and with ourselves. How one might turn minerals into tools, how best to manage agricultural practices in providing food for our communities, and how to adapt to new challenges to our way of life.
These processes, patterns and principles come together to form fields of scientific inquiry, the pursuit and understanding of change. Why this change occurs, how to promote or prevent it and by what means it might be redirected. This, is where our discussion returns to our famous daughter.
Born in Królestwo Polskie, a subject of Russian imperialism. With her gifts, she herself became a student of change and of transformation. Though, even this was clandestine, with a Polish education being forbidden at the time. Eventually, through her work and genius, she broke down barriers and reached heights that no-one has approached since. Amongst these many achievements, she became a professor at the University of Paris, a Nobel Prize winner in two separate fields and discovered new elements in the foundation of the theory of radioactivity.
Likewise, she witnessed much upheaval in her life, not least at a young age with the loss of her mother and sister to tuberculosis and typhus. Then, with the outbreak of the First World War, where her entire world shifts focus and research is no longer her focus. Instead, it is humanitarian and medical work stemming from years of research with her husband Pierre, where alongside many determined volunteers, she ensures over one million soldiers can be given the best standard of medical treatment available. This, all thanks to her provision of mobile radiography units, eponymously named of which she was richly deserving. Though, as the war ended, changes at home culminated in the rebirth of Poland. Like a phoenix from the ashes, arose Rzeczpospolita Polska.
The story of this pioneer, is the story of Poland. The same determination that brought her to the steps of the greatest institutions of learning in Europe and making groundbreaking discoveries, is the same which brought Poland independence from her occupiers.
Who is this remarkable woman?
Maria Salomea Skłodowska-Curie, who remains an inspiration for those with the desire to honour the past, and to change the future by her example as a woman of great personal fortitude. Madame Skłodowska-Curie’s life was lived as a testament to the indomitable Polish spirit.
Let us each, in her memory, act as catalysts for change in our lives, in our communities and in our world. Together, we will create a light shining against the darkness, and be the sons and daughters which our countries require.
Niech Cię Bóg błogosławi, Córko Warszawy.
