Dear Readers,

Today, I want to introduce you to Kristina's incredible journey. She's a mother who bravely moved from Russia to Italy, aiming for a better life for her children. Her story is filled with tough decisions, courage, and the power of a mother's love. It's a real-life example of what it means to face challenges head-on for the sake of family. Happy reading!

The Story of a Woman Who Wanted Freedom!

Perhaps I should start by introducing myself; I am the one who decided to change everything and start anew. It was the desire to change my children's future that compelled me. I had to endure that in my home, my children witnessed indecencies — drugs, abuse, and yelling.

Deciding to muster all my strength, I concluded that moving to Italy would be the best decision. Why Italy, you may ask? Because that's where my mother lived, far away, unaware of what was happening. Every time we talked, I tried to hide the truth, and to every question about how I was doing, my reply was always the same — all is well, I am happy! The only place where I felt safe was with her.

I knew it wouldn't be easy, so I planned every day, step by step, what I needed to do. Every day, I begged and pleaded with the children's father to allow me to visit my mother during the holidays. From that moment, I gradually prepared the translations of all the children's documents, and yes, I even found a lawyer in case I would need one someday!

Then came the day when I was on the plane with my children, knowing I would never return. You might ask if I was afraid something might go wrong. Of course, I was. I feared that all my plans would remain just dreams and not become reality. But when we boarded the plane, I realized that from that moment, I was safe, free, and could change my children's lives for the better.

Moving to Italy was not easy, of course. Finding a job, understanding that in Italy, you are handicapped without a car. I visited all the agencies, but alas, no news. Maybe it was because I was impatient. But one morning, I decided to go to the first beauty salon in our town and submitted my curriculum vitae.

The next day, the salon owner called and asked for a personal meeting. I agreed immediately, and soon I had a job, an official job! It was my dream...

It was through this job and interacting with clients that I met many interesting people. I met my friend there — "a very fascinating story of our acquaintance" — she knew about all the hardships. And yes, she was the one who convinced me to go learn to drive! She knows how to persuade 😂.

And, oh my, I did it!

I owe immense gratitude to my mother, who offered a helping hand, for I lived with her for a long time! As they say, "close quarters, but harmonious."

I could list many clients who supported me with words, smiles, advice. And I'll say that the most important thing in life is to trust your heart and keep moving forward! Having people who support you is the first step to success. Seeing my children's happy faces is what makes life worth living, changing, and fighting for!

There were obstacles, of course — where would we be without them? Legal battles regarding the children, realizing that everything depends not only on you and that the court's decision could change the life you tried to change with your own hands! The fear that they might be sent back.

And then, the most important thing is to fight and fight only for the sake of the children!

I was prepared for everything, for every question asked. I had proof of my words (photo and video evidence). Now I can proudly say I am proud of myself. I did it. I won.

Closing the chapter with the courts, I was happy. My friend organized a dinner to which my children and I were invited, as was another friend of the family! And here the story is very long and interesting, but to put it briefly, a year after our friendship, we are together, we are happy, I am loved, and my children are the happiest children!

This is a beautiful story.

Thanks to his support, my family's support, my friend's support, I understand that a desire for career growth is now very necessary for me. I changed jobs. Deciding to try working for myself, having the opportunity to spend more time with my children was what prompted me to this decision.

And then came the day when I was able to open my own business, my own little corner! I do nails, enjoy my work, love every one of my clients! After all, it's the job I chose myself.

If you ask me if I would like to change anything, I will boldly answer NO. It made me stronger.

Now I am loved, behind a strong, intelligent man who accepted my children, and they accepted him, which is most important. And yes, I am happy. Don't be afraid of changes; they are beautiful.

Yours, Kristina

Kristina's experience is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of a mother. Her move from Russia to Italy, overcoming obstacles, and finding happiness, is truly inspiring. We invite you to share your own stories of inspiring mothers. Submit them in the comments below or through this link: https://www.sasterling.com/share. The most touching stories will be featured on our website later in January. Let's celebrate these incredible women together!

With inspiration,

S.A. Sterling