How can we recognize when we’re playing the victim and find the courage to take that first step? The “Lichtblicke” (Rays of Hope) evening on September 2 in Emmerthal focused on change, self-reflection—and faith as a source of strength.
Four times a year, the women of the Emmerthal Adventist Church host their “Rays of Hope” celebration. Once again, in early September, participants were greeted by a lovingly created atmosphere: autumnal decorations, fragrant food, warm encounters, and time for meaningful conversations.
Sonja Tietz led the evening’s main topic, “My Path Out of the Victim Role.” Using concrete examples from society and her own life, she showed how quickly people can fall into patterns of thinking where they see themselves primarily as victims of their circumstances—and what steps can help them step out of that role. It became clear that change rarely happens on its own. It requires self-reflection, determination, and the courage to take responsibility for the next steps and venture down new paths.
Sonja Tietz also spoke very personally about what gives her strength and encouragement: her faith in God and His promises. She has written Bible verses that have become especially important to her on cards and carries them with her. She reads them again and again, consciously reflecting on God’s promises, and uses them as a starting point for conversations with others. This experience encouraged her to engage the evening’s participants in this challenging topic and to provide them with inspiration for their own processes of change.
After the presentation, there was plenty of time to chat and connect. The ideas from the evening continued to resonate—and some questions will likely stay with the participants for a long time.