I 'm so glad you replied to my letter
I won’t lie it feels a little thrilling to write this letter. Not because I’m at a loss for words, but because there are so many thoughts, feelings, and stories swirling in my mind that I’d love to share. It’s just… you’re a stranger, and I’ve decided to open the door to my small world for you. I hope you’ll be a kind guest.
My name is Veronica. I’m 33 years old my birthday is September 4th. I live in Kazakhstan, in a quiet city called Pavlodar, where the sun often wakes before people do, and in spring, the air carries the sweet scent of apricots. Today, I decided to do something I haven’t done in ages write to someone living in a different reality, another country, under different skies. Simply because a flicker of hope stirred inside me.
My life… hasn’t been an easy one. I’m an orphan. Since childhood, I’ve had to rely solely on myself. The orphanage, then boarding school, then work, my first rented room. I’m not saying this for pity no. More like… with quiet pride. Everything I have now, I’ve built with my own two hands. Literally I run a small beauty salon where I help women feel beautiful. I studied and worked toward this for years, and I truly love what I do. 
Today, like most days, I’m writing from an internet cafe since I don’t have my own computer. This place smells of coffee, dust, and a faint melancholy but today, this letter makes the ordinary feel special.
I’ve attached a photo thought it might help you see who I am.
Tell me about yourself, if you’d like. What fills your days? What brings you joy? And what made you decide to reply to this letter?

Hoping to hear from you, Veronica.

How are you? How was your day? Thank you for not ignoring me. These days, that really means a lot, you know? 
Today, I came back to the computer club after work. It was a pretty tough day lots of customers, and I’m exhausted 
but I remind myself that it’s my job, and I need to stay strong. That’s just how it is. It’s nice to learn more 
about you. I understand your thoughts about trust and respect. I also think these are the most important 
foundations for any relationship. It must have been interesting growing up in Switzerland. I imagine the cold 
and the unique environment shaped a lot of your experiences. I’d love to see the photos you mentioned.
I like reading too. Books really give a deeper understanding than movies, although I enjoy movies as well. 
I usually read stories, novels, and sometimes historical books. In my daily life I run a small beauty salon. 
It keeps me busy but also allows me to meet different people, which I enjoy. In my free time I like to write 
letters, take walks, and spend quiet moments reflecting on life. You know, I’ve told you before that I’m alone. 
Growing up, it was the orphanage, then the boarding school. People like me learn to grow a thick shell fast. 
You teach yourself not to cry when you’re hurt, not to dream when you see others with moms, dads, holidays, 
and family photo albums. But I never let myself turn bitter. I think, deep down, I still believed that someday, 
things would change. That life would give me its warmth. The only person I have left is my grandma. I visit her 
on weekends in the village there’s a banya, her house, peace, and quiet away from the city...
Do you know what a banya is? I love it and go once a week. I also take care of her now she’s getting older. 
She tried to be both mom and dad to me, but she couldn’t support me when I was little, so I had to stay 
in the orphanage. But the important thing is, I grew up. I have a job I take pride in, and a friend, Alena 
we go for walks and sometimes laugh until we cry over silly memories. There are simple joys, too hot tea 
when the weather’s bad outside, cheerful customers to chat with, and... now there’s you, my friend from abroad. 
I’m attaching another photo today let’s keep our letters alive, with faces and feelings. I hope you will also send 
me your photos. Don't be shy with me Do you have any memories you find yourself returning to most often? 
What parts of your past feel especially important to you?

Warmly, Veronica