A woman standing among plants inside a greenhouse — Olessia Kucher / Michael Sugrue

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Olessia Kucher

In their own words

Transcribed from the complete photographed Ukrainian letter. English translation prepared for this edition; the original is available alongside it.

Hello, my dear girl!
You do not yet know what trials lie ahead of you. But you can prepare yourself even now.
You must understand that life is difficult, but at the same time beautiful!
My dear girl, remember: people will try to break you, but find the strength within yourself to stand firm, and you will become unbreakable!
People will betray you, but never betray yourself, and then your dreams will come true!
You will be tested by loneliness, but God will give you the best son in the world, who will never leave you lonely again.
You will know bitter tears, separation from your family, and fear of what the unknown tomorrow will bring.
But!!! Do not lose heart! Do not lose faith! Develop yourself, build yourself up and keep improving! And you will see that you can do anything, wherever you may find yourself in the future.
Face all of life's trials with dignity, and you will gain confidence in life.
Your eyes will shine with happiness. You will enjoy your achievements and rejoice in life together with the people who matter most to you.
Your life and your future are in your hands!
Start loving yourself right now, my strong, successful, unbreakable girl....