Endel Uiga

Where the Light Comes From Endel Uiga

Endel Uiga was born on March 3, 1918, just days after Estonia declared its independence from Russia. In his memoir, he describes the idyllic life of a curious and ingenious child with great promise for a successful future while a roiling undercurrent of unrest pervaded eastern Europe. He and his country came of age together, before their destinies diverged during World War II. Although there is a plethora of that war's memoirs, the plight of the Baltic nations, and particularly that of Estonia, has been largely overlooked. Still, more than a recounting of historical facts or the personal reminiscences of a centenarian, the story holds universal truths. Uiga's message is clear. Democracy is fragile, hard-won and easily lost. It's a warning. Citizens in a democracy must make wise choices rather than merely expeditious ones. There's a lot at stake. He calls us to be ever vigilant, upholding democratic principles for the sake of freedom not just now, but for generations to come.