Overcoming life’s difficulties and finding hope
At the age of 45, my life turned into a real nightmare: my husband left me, turned my son against me, and I was left alone, with no one to share my sorrows or joys with. To survive, I got a job as a cleaner at a local school, trying to earn some money and keep my home. However, the constant stress of the divorce and court proceedings made it impossible for me to concentrate, and I was soon fired.
Feeling a complete loss — of family, home, and self-confidence — I wandered the streets, feeling like nothing more than the rubbish I sometimes swept up. One day, after a difficult day, walking along the pavement lost in my thoughts, I was suddenly blinded by a bright light, and the sharp sound of brakes broke the silence. A car was speeding straight towards me! Terrified, I couldn’t move, and the driver stopped abruptly just a few centimetres away from me.
A tall man in a work uniform with kind eyes got out of the car and exclaimed, ‘Do you realise you almost died?’ I was in shock and just nodded silently. Seeing my condition, he gently offered his help and said that it was better not to walk alone on such roads. At that moment, an elderly woman with a dog appeared nearby and urged the man to be kinder, saying that I might really need support.
‘Maybe she needs support, don’t be rude to her,’ said the elderly woman.
These unexpected words and encounter marked the beginning of changes in my life. Marina, a teacher who had overcome many challenges herself, offered me a temporary job at a homeless shelter where she volunteered. There I met Alexei, a former psychologist who had dedicated his life to helping people in crisis situations. His attention to my potential was a turning point; he became my mentor and friend.
Under Alexei’s guidance, I began attending free psychological groups, tried art therapy, and learned new skills. Gradually, I realised that it was possible to trust people again and that my value was not determined by my past. Even after going through difficult trials, there is a chance to start life anew.
Psychological recovery through support groups
Learning new skills and art therapy
Overcoming traumatic experiences
During the same period, my son Dmitry also began to change. He also went through difficult times, but thanks to the support of a psychologist and frank conversations, he came to understand that the causes of the problems lay not only with me, but also in the mistakes of both sides. His heart gradually opened up, and the connection between us was restored.
A few months later, I got a job at a library, where I met women who were going through crises. Together, we shared stories, supported each other, and learned new skills. Soon, strength and confidence began to fill my life again.
Over time, life took on new colours. At the library, I met a young woman named Elena, an activist who defended women’s rights and supported those who faced difficulties. Elena noticed my desire to change my fate and invited me to participate in her initiatives to support women in crisis.
‘The strength and desire to change yourself are the most important resources for new achievements,’ Elena shared.
At the same time, I began to study psychology and social work in order to better help myself and those around me. During my studies, I met Anastasia, a woman with a wealth of experience who became my mentor and friend. She taught me to value myself, stand up for my rights, and not be afraid of change.
Gradually, Dmitry and I restored our relationship. He became a mature, independent person, and we began to go for walks together, discussing our dreams and plans. His support and kindness inspired me every day. Together, we realised that family and trust are the most important values.
Once I gained confidence, I became a volunteer in an organisation that helps children from disadvantaged families. This gave me the opportunity to share my strength and experience with those who need support just as I did before.
Volunteering filled my life with new meaning and joy. I discovered that my example inspired other women going through similar challenges. Together with Elena and Anastasia, we created a support group where we shared stories, learned, and overcame difficulties together.
Volunteering and helping children
Creating a women’s support group
Inspiration and personal skill development
One day, a young man who had gone through similar trials and dreamed of becoming a teacher for children from disadvantaged families approached me. I saw a spark of hope in him and began to help him with his studies, becoming his mentor on this path.
My life was filled with new energy and meaning. I wrote articles, participated in conferences, and shared my own experiences to inspire those around me not to give up and to believe in the best. My words touched the hearts of those who were fighting for their future, bringing a sense of deep satisfaction.