It’s why I’ll keep writing and sharing.

A woman halfway around the world inspired me in a moment when I wondered if I was making enough of a difference.

It’s a lot of work to put myself out there by sharing my thoughts and most difficult stories on social media, my blog, and podcast. This kind of raw vulnerability isn’t always easy to embrace. I can get weary.

On this particular day, I found myself slumped in front of my computer asking it out loud, Is anybody out there reading or listening to my stories? Why am I doing this?

Then I received a message from a lovely woman in Egypt who just finished reading my memoir, The Great Unlearning, and she had something powerful to say to her followers on Instagram. Translated from Russian to English, it’s a little jumbled, but packs a heartfelt message. A woman halfway around the world inspired me in a moment when I wondered if I was making enough of a difference.

“If you had to recommend a book that cures with its frankness – it would be this one. The book is like an invisible medicine, guided me on a safe journey with each sentence, having been able to penetrate through the darkest cracks even to the shadow.

After reading it I feel that everything that happened in my life is part of my personal journey. All the experiences, the stories, the people I’ve met, have led me where I am now. I am ready to live my life, with all flavors and share my experience.

It's time to tell your authentic personal experience, whatever that may be. Because this experience is not my shame, this experience is my authenticity.”

After reading this message, my posture straightened, I high fived the air over my head, cried a little, and felt inspired more than ever to continue writing and sharing my stories and reflections because I want to inspire you.

Write on!