In this interview, we sit down with Stefania as she shares her motivations for writing the book, the emotional toll of escaping a war-torn country, and how she persevered through the darkest moments.
What inspired you to write “Light in the Darkness: Escaping the War in Ukraine”?
The first push to write the book came from my Aunt Lena’s husband, Leon. Having experience in writing books and knowing what I had been through, he advised me to write everything down as soon as possible. And in the process of writing, inspiration struck me. Unexpectedly, I began to enjoy pouring out my thoughts and feelings, which formed the narrative line of my story. It was a very exciting process!
How did you decide on the title of your memoir?
It was very important for me to combine the two main themes of the book, the story of the war and the spiritual part, in one title. When I first heard the song “Way Maker” in church, I got goosebumps hearing the chorus: “You are Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper Light in the darkness,” I realized that I had found the title for my book.
In your memoir, you discuss the impact of war on civilians. What do you hope readers will understand about what you and many others have been going through?
I hope I managed to convey the idea of the fragility of a normal, peaceful life and how important it is to appreciate what you have. The war in Ukraine instantly shattered the lives of tens of millions of people. They were ordinary people, just like the readers of this book.
Faith plays a significant role in your story. How did your spirituality evolve during this crisis?
Well, a life crisis is what led me to God. At this moment, the war has become my hardest trial and crisis. My story of faith began in a bomb shelter when I realized that I am a tiny human being who actually controls nothing, and the only path to salvation is through God. Initially, I thought about literal, physical salvation from the war. But later, I discovered a more important salvation: the salvation of my soul.
How did the process of writing about your experiences affect you emotionally?
I felt a sense of release. It was a heavy emotional burden that I carried within me and had no way to express. I always found it difficult to express my feelings and thoughts verbally, so from an early age, I turned to art as my outlet. Unexpectedly, the process of writing the manuscript also became a form of expression and a “safe place” where I could openly pour out all my memories and experiences.
You dedicate a portion of your book to the Ukrainian cultural and national identity. Why was this important for you to include?
Many people in the world have only recently heard about Ukraine and know practically nothing about my country. I feel that it’s my mission as a Ukrainian to share our culture and history. Otherwise, how will people understand who Ukrainians truly are?
Throughout your journey, you encountered many acts of kindness. Is there one that stands out to you the most?
It’s very difficult to pick just one. Every kind person has left their mark. But what stands out most to me is the first instance of a completely unexpected act of kindness that occurred on a trip from Kyiv to Western Ukraine. My mom and I were traveling on a train crowded with refugees, leaving behind everything we had and heading into the unknown. I was bitterly mourning the loss of my former life. Suddenly, at one of the stations, local volunteers greeted our train. As soon as the train doors opened, they hastily distributed hot meals to the passengers. When someone handed me a container of hot buckwheat with meat, I started laughing and crying… It was absolutely unexpected and touched my heart so deeply. Such a small act of kindness… However, simply having a hot meal in my hands, thoughtfully prepared by somebody, pulled me out of the state of despair I was in and gave me the strength to move forward.
What was the biggest challenge in accurately conveying the emotions and experiences of escaping a war-torn country?
It was a little scary to decide to be honest no matter what. For example, in those cases where I could appear in a negative light or expose my weaknesses, or let readers into my private life. There is always a risk that my honesty could turn against me… But I know for sure that this honesty serves the authenticity of the story and the book itself, and will help readers experience the true story. So I believe it’s worth it.
How do you view the international response to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, based on your experiences?
Speaking from my own experience, I can say that the response from ordinary people has been enormous, exceeding all my expectations, but the response from governments and world leaders is insufficient.
The theme of hope is prevalent throughout your memoir. How do you maintain hope in such difficult times?
I have placed my hope in God.
What message do you have for others who are currently experiencing similar situations of conflict and displacement?
I wish for people who find themselves in difficult circumstances to see their hope for salvation in God. In challenging situations, it’s even easier to understand and accept that we are not in control of our lives. But He is sovereign over any circumstances.
Your memoir provides a personal glimpse into the Ukraine-Russia War. How do you think personal narratives like yours contribute to our understanding of global conflicts?
I believe that personal stories have tremendous power. They are real. They are filled with genuine emotions and personal experiences. They shed light on events through the eyes of the witness. It’s so powerful that it cannot be compared to any news resources. In our modern world full of propaganda and deceit, I am inclined to believe in witness sources.
What has been the reaction from readers, particularly those from Canada?
Many said they felt as if they had been with me throughout my journey. They also note my honesty and raw emotions, which even brought some to tears. It was surprising to me when people hugged me and said they felt they knew me after reading the book. But the main thing that pleased me was that people of different views, nationalities, and even faiths found something valuable for themselves in this book.
How has the process of writing and publishing this memoir influenced your views on the role of art and literature in times of crisis?
As I mentioned earlier, art is my language of expression. And I accept very well everything that is said to me in this language. For a vast number of people, painting, literature, music are also the key to their hearts. I see a tremendous power in conveying messages to people through art.
What do you believe are the most significant misconceptions about the war in Ukraine?
The most common misconception I’ve heard is that a peace treaty will end the war. It’s highly likely that it won’t work and will only postpone a new wave of Russian aggression in the future. Ukraine already signed the Budapest Memorandum with Russia and Western countries in 1994, after the collapse of the USSR, when Ukraine gave up all its nuclear weapons. Additionally, after the annexation of Crimea and Donbas in 2014, we “sacrificed” part of our territories in an attempt to establish peace with Russia and signed the Minsk Agreements on a ceasefire. However, no peace treaties have stopped Russia from a full-scale invasion in 2022. It’s impossible to reach agreements with those who cannot be trusted.
In writing your memoir, did you discover anything new about yourself or your family?
About myself, I discovered that I am a writer. I didn’t even realize it until I started writing my memoir. I also learned the true value and power of family when you find yourself in the midst of life’s storms. My aunt Lena and her husband Leon proved to be a reliable support during these difficult times.
What advice would you give to someone who is trying to tell their own story of survival?
Be bolder and simply share your story from the heart. It’s better to tell what happened (in any way that suits you) than to bury it unspoken deep inside. You never know how your story might impact the lives of others and possibly serve some greater purpose.
Looking forward, what are your hopes for Ukraine and for your own future?
My main wish is for Ukraine to win the war. I hope that after the war, Ukraine will be able to heal its wounds, rise from the ruins, and thrive in freedom and prosperity as an independent state.
As for my future, I wish to reunite with my loved ones, have my own family, home, some stability… and, of course, the opportunity to continue creating new art and books. But besides material well-being I want to become a better person, a good Christian, and continue my path towards God.