Reflections on the Diaspora: What We Miss from the USSR
As we reflect on the former Soviet Union today, many aspects of life stand out as nostalgic reminders of a simpler time. From the efficiency of the transport system to the availability of free housing, many of the privileges and conveniences of the USSR are now missed by those who lived through those days. Let's explore some of these facets:
The Transport System Under the USSR
One of the most notable aspects of the transport system during the USSR was its comprehensiveness, particularly outside of the railway. While today's river and sea transport is primarily for tourism, during the USSR, these modes of transport played a significant role in everyday life, akin to trains, planes, and buses. For instance, you could, in a mere 12 hours, fly from Murmansk to Verkhnaya Toyma in the Arkhangelsk region, a journey that now takes over 24 hours, and possibly even longer.
The city transport system was also more affordable. People could travel without the financial burden that comes with modern transportation, and this affordability was a factor in the overall appeal of the transport system during the USSR.
Free Housing and Communal Payments
During the USSR, one of the most sought-after benefits was the availability of free flats for common workers and specialists of any profession. While not an easy feat, it was a reality. Now, people can only acquire service flats, which are meticulously regulated and taken away when they change jobs. Furthermore, the communal payments for these flats were significantly lower compared to the average salary. This difference in costs and availability is one of the main reasons why a growing number of people miss the USSR.
Sanitation and Curort Services
Sanational and curort services were also more accessible and affordable during the USSR. People could easily take a tour to a sanatory with the confidence that such activities were supported by the state. In contrast, obtaining these services now often requires additional funding.
The Crucial Role of Social Benefits
Many workers today miss the social benefits and privileges that were part of socialist life, such as patronizing state free dwelling, free medical services, and free education. Even though education for military academies was free, attending a civilian academic institution required payment. The most significant sentiment is that of the loss of the social compromise and the confidence in the future that characterized life under socialism.
Personal Nostalgia and the Transition to Capitalism
As a linguist/translator, I miss the excellent dictionaries that came out of the Eastern Bloc, particularly from East Germany. These linguistic aids were remarkable and unmatched. When the USSR collapsed, I, at the age of 19, missed out on the social benefits and privileges that the socialist system had to offer. Today, I find myself nostalgic for the times when Mother and Father were alive, a perspective that transcends social constitutions.
People older than myself miss the time when they didn't have to worry about finances, credits, and future arrangements for their children. This sentiment is particularly poignant for the Soviet-educated urban middle class born in the 1950s and 1960s. The transition to a capitalist system has been challenging for many who struggle to adapt and survive.
Reflecting on the past, even without personal experience, we can see that the USSR left a lasting impact on the memories and aspirations of its people. The nostalgia for the USSR is more than just a longing for a simpler time; it is a testament to the ideals and promises of a different socio-economic system.
Conclusion
The USSR was a complex and multifaceted entity, and while its collapse marked the beginning of a new era, the nostalgia for its past is a reminder of the values and benefits that were once real. As we move forward, it’s essential to remember these aspects and learn from the experiences of the past to shape a better future.