Estonians are known for their reserved nature and that is why the common answer, when asked how you celebrate the Independence Day of Estonia, is "Don't know". Estonians are afraid of expressing their feelings, joy and pride over the heritage of the ancestors.

But then...when the 24th of February gets closer and closer, you hear more and more people discussing the birthday of Estonia. You hear people exchanging ideas for a dinner menu, you hear people going to the parade, watching President's Reception and Speech from the TV, humming the National Anthem, sharing memories... Suddenly you understand the pride over keeping Estonian language, culture and own identity despite the centuries under foreign rule.

Today Estonians celebrate the Independence of Estonia. If not loudly in public, then certainly in our hearts!