Finland between East and West

the long version

Through centuries of coexistence with her "neighbor to the east," as Russia is popularly referred to in Finland, the country has learned what the West is only beginning to learn -- the art of living in two worlds. The poise, adaptability, and sisu (guts) in the face of glaring challenge which the Finnish people have demonstrated is truly remarkable. For this reason alone, if for no other, Finland merits more than purblind admiration; she calls for a closer study, a wider knowledge, and a more intelligent comprehension of her history. Furthermore, just as moral standards of national policy may be judged by the treatment of a national minority within a national state, so moral standards in international affairs can be measured by the treatment of the smaller nations. Finland is one of the small nations whose fate will depend on whether the world community of nations will honor the law or live by the rule of the jungle. - Preface.