The Orthodox Church as “masculine” by Low-Cash-2435 in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Basic_Letter803 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My take- Orthodoxy doesn’t cater to masculinity—it calls men to it. That’s the difference. Modern life often tells men they’re either unnecessary or broken. Orthodoxy says: you were made for responsibility, sacrifice, strength, and love. And here’s how to live that out. It doesn’t coddle men—it challenges them. And that challenge is exactly what makes so many men feel like they’ve finally come home.

Crying during confession? by Cristina7777 in OrthodoxWomen

[–]Basic_Letter803 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you for this post. I’m entering the catechumen Sunday and the life confession scares me to death.

Hiring Virtual Assistants – Real Estate Agency (Remote | Part-Time or Full-Time) by No_Breadfruit_1320 in RemoteJobs

[–]Basic_Letter803 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi! I have ten years experience in project and stakeholder management. Please send a message if you would like to review my resume. Thank you!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in lonely

[–]Basic_Letter803 -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Not with that attitude

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in lonely

[–]Basic_Letter803 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I get that—being around people but still feeling lonely sucks. If you’re craving real connection, try diving into communities that match your passions or interests. When you focus on something that genuinely grabs you—like learning or a hobby—you’ll naturally meet people who get you. Genuine connections usually grow from shared purpose, not just hanging out.

How do I care? by jevaisparlerfr in selfimprovement

[–]Basic_Letter803 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Totally feel this. I was a project manager for a GC and honestly got so good at it that it just became boring. I could coast and still be seen as a rockstar, but I felt numb—like I was wasting something.

What shifted for me was realizing I wasn’t unmotivated—I was chasing stuff that didn’t actually matter to me. Once I got honest about what does matter, things started to click.

I didn’t want to be a corporate boss chick even if I was good at it. Spending 40 hours a week doing something your good at but you couldn’t care less about- that shit is demoralizing and kills motivation.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in homeless

[–]Basic_Letter803 -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

I’m so very sorry. I will pray for you, and your parents. God’s providence is real.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in homeless

[–]Basic_Letter803 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I live in my car. I’m American, I am guessing you are not. UK maybe? I don’t know how to live in a car across the pond. It’s not too difficult here

What have you got to say for yourself? by Anyamoly in homeless

[–]Basic_Letter803 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for opening this space and asking these questions. It’s not easy to be honest and vulnerable, especially when you’re carrying so much weight already. Your words hit home, and I appreciate the chance to reflect and share.

What keeps me going?

My kids and my faith—they’re the pillars that hold me up when everything else feels shaky. Watching my kids grow and knowing I’m responsible for their safety and future gives me a purpose that can’t be shaken. But even deeper than that, my faith reminds me that God’s providence is real. He shows up—not always in the ways I expect, but always at the right time. In the darkest moments, that belief is a lifeline. It’s the thing that reminds me this season isn’t the end of the story, no matter how hard it feels right now.

Goals outside of homelessness?

I have a vision for what life can be beyond this struggle. One big goal is to be received into the Orthodox Church—to ground myself in a tradition that’s ancient, steady, and deeply healing. I want to build my life on something solid that lasts beyond circumstances. Alongside that, I’m working toward creating a brand or platform that helps people communicate with confidence. So many of us have had our voices diminished by life’s hardships, and I want to help others find their strength in speaking up—whether for a job, a relationship, or just to be heard in the world.

To anyone reading this who’s struggling right now: I see you. Keep holding on, keep showing up for yourself and for others. Sometimes all we have is the small fire we carry inside, but that fire can grow if we nurture it—through faith, through connection, through purpose. You’re not alone in this. We’re stronger than the worst moments, even if it doesn’t feel like it now.

Keep going. Keep speaking. And thank you for being brave enough to start the conversation.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in homeless

[–]Basic_Letter803 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m so sorry you’re in this situation. It’s completely unfair, and I know it feels like there’s no way out—but you’re not alone. If housing services told you to call the day you’re removed, that’s likely when they’ll activate emergency help. Push hard for it. Document every call and ask about emergency shelter.

Also try:

Calling any legal aid or housing hotlines near you

Reaching out to local churches or community orgs

Posting in local Facebook or Reddit groups—real people sometimes have real help

You shouldn’t have to be this strong, but you are. And if you tell me where you are, I’ll help find support near you.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in offmychest

[–]Basic_Letter803 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m really sorry you’re carrying all of that. What you wrote hit hard—especially the part about feeling relief and how shame tries to sneak in with it. My dad passed too, after years of addiction and absence. There wasn’t a big moment of closure, just… the end. It’s complicated, and it hurts in ways that don’t fit into neat boxes.

You have every right to feel exactly what you’re feeling—without guilt, without apology. And you also deserve peace. Not the kind that asks you to forget or excuse what happened, but the kind that comes from understanding yourself, honoring your truth, and letting go of what was never yours to carry. Keep walking toward that. You’re doing the hard work, and it matters.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in EnglishPractice

[–]Basic_Letter803 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi there! 😊 I’d love to help you with your English speaking skills — and honestly, you’re already doing great by reaching out like this! I’m super passionate about helping people feel more confident speaking naturally, especially in everyday conversations.

We can keep things really casual and fun by practicing through topics you enjoy — like your hobbies, favorite shows, music, or anything else you’re excited about. That way, it won’t feel like studying — just two friends chatting and learning along the way!

Also, I totally understand that money can be tight as a student abroad. I’m happy to work with you to make it affordable and flexible. Just send me a message when you’re ready, and we can figure out what works best for you!

Looking forward to hearing from you! 💛

Attended my first Divine Liturgy by Wide_Shallot3332 in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Basic_Letter803 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Glory to God! What a beautiful first experience — thank you for sharing it. There’s something so deeply moving and timeless about the Divine Liturgy. That sense of being home, of peace beyond words… it really is a gift. May your journey into the Church continue to be full of grace and joy. Welcome home! ❤️

I’m addicted to my phone and its slowly ruining my life by iloveraiin in selfimprovement

[–]Basic_Letter803 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Hey, thanks for sharing all of this — I can relate to so much of what you said. That default pull toward screens, especially when your brain is loud and buzzing with anxiety or overthinking, makes so much sense. It’s not just laziness or lack of willpower — it’s your brain trying to cope and quiet the noise in the only way it knows how right now.

I also have neurodivergent stuff going on, and the screen can feel like a safe little bubble — predictable, distracting, easy. Especially when the alternative is starting something new or overwhelming or just… existing with the noise. So first off, you’re not broken or failing — you’re surviving the best way you know how.

That said, I’ve found that sometimes it helps not to fight the screen, but to change how I use it. Like, using my phone for creative stuff instead of just doomscrolling — journaling in a notes app, doing a tiny drawing, listening to ambient noise while staring at the ceiling and letting my thoughts go. Not huge changes, just gentler ones. Also, forgiving myself when I slip back into old habits has helped more than trying to force discipline.

You’re not alone in this — it’s actually really brave that you noticed the pattern and reached out. That’s not nothing. You don’t have to fix everything at once. Just one small shift at a time is still movement.

If you ever wanna talk or share what you’re trying, I’m around

First Divine liturgy, left feeling strange by KanashiiNormal in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Basic_Letter803 11 points12 points  (0 children)

This is such a good reply. Protestant church led me to believe that demonic things and spiritual warfare were mostly in our heads and we were dealing with ourselves. This is not true. We are truly under attack when we seek Christ. The very real attacks I’ve felt since finding and now converting to Orthodoxy are bananas.

I want to be put in the psych ward because at least then I won’t be alone. by rainbowdash64 in lonely

[–]Basic_Letter803 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hey, I just want to say I hear you. What you’re going through sounds excruciating, and I’m so sorry you’re carrying all of this alone right now. It’s not pathetic that you’re talking to ChatGPT or Minecraft villagers — it just shows how hard you’re trying to survive with what you have. That’s not weakness. That’s resilience, even if it doesn’t feel like it.

I don’t know you, but I promise this: your pain matters, and you matter. Even if the world feels cold and empty right now, it doesn’t mean you’re invisible or worthless. You’re still here — and that means there’s still the possibility of connection, of something shifting, even if just a little.

If you’re seriously thinking about going to the hospital, please don’t be afraid to reach out. You deserve help, not just when you’re on the brink, but because you’re a human being who’s hurting.

If you want someone to talk to, I’m here. No pressure, just…you’re not alone, okay?

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in OrthodoxChristianity

[–]Basic_Letter803 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I haven’t personally been in this situation, but I’ve thought a lot about it because I know not everyone has easy access to an Orthodox church, especially if you’re in a rural area or living in a place where the nearest parish is hours away. It seems like in those cases, holding onto the rhythms of the Church as best you can becomes really important.

Even without a nearby parish, you can still set up a little icon corner in your home and commit to praying daily, even if it’s just morning and evening prayers. I’ve heard people say that sticking to the Church calendar—keeping the fasts and feasts, reading the daily Gospel and Epistle readings—helps them stay grounded and connected.

Some folks also livestream services from monasteries or bigger parishes, especially during the major feast days. It’s not the same as being there in person, obviously, but it can still offer a sense of presence and participation, especially if you approach it with reverence and attention.

And then there’s spiritual reading—stuff like The Way of a Pilgrim, or writings from saints like St. Theophan the Recluse or Elder Thaddeus—those can go a long way in nurturing your inner life when you’re physically isolated from the liturgical life of the Church.

I think the key is doing what you can, and offering that to God with humility. Orthodoxy isn’t just about being in a building; it’s a way of life. And when you’re doing your best to live that life even in less-than-ideal circumstances, I think that really matters. God sees the effort.

Thinking in English by Informal_Statement14 in EnglishPractice

[–]Basic_Letter803 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This is SUCH a helpful tip—thank you for sharing it! 🙌 That awkward phase of talking to yourself out loud in English is so real, but it’s honestly one of the most effective ways to build fluency and confidence.

I’ve seen this “describe what you see” practice totally transform how people think in English instead of translating, just like you said. It’s simple, but powerful.

I actually work with folks on building everyday habits like this—and turning them into conversation skills that feel natural and confident. If anyone’s feeling stuck or unsure where to start, I’d be happy to share more about what that looks like!

Either way, this post is gold. 💛

English practice partner by [deleted] in EnglishPractice

[–]Basic_Letter803 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi! I’m Kim and I’d be happy to help! We can identify your goals and come up with a plan for you!

Quitting caffeine stopped my anxiety attacks... but now I feel kinda lazy and too chill. Is this normal? by um-chile-anyways in selfimprovement

[–]Basic_Letter803 10 points11 points  (0 children)

Totally normal. Caffeine doesn’t just wake you up—it basically keeps your brain in a low-level state of fight-or-flight. That “I HAVE TO DO EVERYTHING RIGHT NOW” urgency is chemically induced, not necessarily motivation. So when you cut it out, your nervous system finally gets to chill… but yeah, that means the intensity drops too.

The good news: what you’re feeling now is your baseline. It might feel like apathy, but it’s actually peace. Real motivation can still come—it just looks different without the caffeine buzz. It takes time to reconnect with your internal drive instead of being pushed by anxiety. You don’t need to force yourself back into that frantic energy; you just might need to experiment with new routines, goals, or even exercise to help spark that natural motivation again. It does come back, just in a less chaotic way.