February 2019: The Entire Community at a Crossroads – Struggles and Hopes for a Better Future February 2019 was a month marked by intense conflicts, obstacles, and moments that seemed to test the limits of our patience. In Rasova, the fight against corruption and abuse of power entered an even fiercer phase. Mayor Maria Mitu, determined to maintain control at any cost, increased the pressure on me and anyone who had the courage to support a different vision for our community. What started as a series of simple initiatives to bring transparency and justice to the village had now become a true battle for the survival of the community spirit. This month made it clear who had the courage to stand up against injustice. The collaboration with the Local Sustainability Group (GSL) was a pillar of resilience, giving me a glimmer of hope that I was not alone in this fight. Alongside these trustworthy people, we began to expose the abuses of the local administration, especially those related to the improper distribution and use of public funds. Together, we gathered testimonies and evidence that showed how resources that should have benefited the entire community were diverted for personal interests. Amid all these challenges, I began to feel increasingly isolated. The pressure from the authorities was growing, and my friends—people I had considered close—started to distance themselves, fearing repercussions. I often felt like I was fighting against a massive wave, but deep down, I knew that the fight was necessary. Every step forward, every small victory—no matter how insignificant it seemed—was a step towards a fairer and more just Rasova. Also in February, I realized how great the need for solidarity in our community was. In the face of pressure and threats, I saw people who chose not to remain silent, who chose to stand up and be by my side. Together, we organized secret meetings, away from the watchful eyes of the town hall, to discuss how we could continue to demand transparency and justice. These meetings were not just about strategies; they were moments when we reaffirmed our hope, when we reminded each other that we were not alone and that change was possible. February 2019 was a month of trials but also a month of hope. I understood that the fight was not just about me and what I believed to be right, but about every resident of Rasova who deserved to live in a community where law and justice were respected. I started to write more and more about these experiences, to share my story online, hoping that people would understand what was really happening and join our cause. I knew the road was long, but I began to feel that somewhere at the end of this road, a better Rasova awaited us. The fight continues, and each day is a new challenge. But with every small victory, whether it is the support of a neighbor or the courage of someone to speak out, we know we are on the right path. And I hope that, by reading these lines, you will stay with me on this journey—because our story is just beginning, and together we can make change a reality.