Let's talk about something crucial: other people's struggles and triumphs. This topic was inspired by a letter from a wonderful radio listener. She said she liked my texts and programs but was irritated by one thing: my voice. Too carefree, too fortunate.

She was likely in a difficult or challenging situation—something we can't see or hear from our glass studio, which is why your letters and feedback are so valuable! Her irritation stemmed from the contrast between her pain and my seemingly effortless happiness. When you're hurting, someone else's smooth sailing can feel like salt in the wound.

Then one day, my "carefree" voice said, "When I lost my husband, and my eldest son lost his arm in an accident..." This helped her, not because she took pleasure in my misfortune, but because if someone can speak with such a voice after such tragedies, it means there's life after sorrow. It means strength can be found. And this is valuable information.

I’ve often pondered why we feel a sense of relief when we read or hear about someone else's drama. A friend of mine lost her leg and arm in a car accident, transforming from a bored housewife into the head of a foundation. She now travels the world, inspiring others with her zest for life and even skydiving. A famous model ended up in a wheelchair after losing the use of her legs, yet she remains stunning, works, and writes articles about her loss. She smiles. When I became a widow, I reached out to the most renowned and wonderful Orthodox journalist who had experienced the same loss. The book I eagerly devoured was by Nick Vujicic, the motivational speaker born without arms and legs.

Why is this so comforting? Is it because someone else is suffering as much or more than you? I pondered this and found the answer. No, it's not the pain of others that comforts us in tough times. It's their overcoming. Unfortunately, we don’t hear about those who hit rock bottom and closed the door to their room. We only learn about those who "grew wings over the abyss."

This isn’t about me, I assure you. This is about all of us who overcome, live, and share our stories in ways that help others not shut themselves in their grief. Some might even realize that their sorrow isn't the worst. But the main point is that beyond the dividing line of despair lies not helplessness, but a very gradual victory and a very gradual, yet real, return to life.

If you're struggling, read about those who have survived and soared, watch films about them. God grants them great strength because, as the apostle said, "My strength is made perfect in weakness." And never—hear me—never close the door to your room.

Original article: radiovera.ru/ne-zakryvajte-vashu-dver-anna-leonteva.html