There is, for so many who pass through this place, the time before. And then, there is now.

Przemyśl station, situated in a small town nestled along the eastern edge of Poland, has become a safe haven for thousands of Ukrainians since the invasion began. A place to eat. To sleep. To breathe. To perhaps feel a moment of safety before stepping forward into the unknown. There simply isn’t any way to express the courage of those I spoke to, most having no idea if they’ll ever be able to return to their homes. Not knowing if their fathers or brothers or partners will make it through this.

Time after time, those I spoke to told stories of violence and tragedy. Without fail, every single person pushed off even the notion of defeat and continued with hope, strength, and often fierce defiance. I have never experienced bravery like the kind I experienced with every single person I met on these platforms along the Poland/Ukraine border. They may not know if they will go home, but when I look into the fire in their eyes, I have little doubt.

I was able to get to Poland to spend two days photographing from morning until evening here at the station. It wasn’t long enough, but I’m grateful to have been able to listen, bear witness, and hopefully share with you some of the most deeply human moments these generous neighbors were willing to share with me.