The Mirror in My Cell
The Mirror in My Cell
Podcast Description
In each prison cell, a story.
For those who look, a mirror.
I was imprisoned in Belarus.
But amidst darkness, insight - understanding of who I am and what is true.
When you hear about prisoners, you might read them as powerless, impulsive characters.
But I've found more strength, choice and wisdom in these stories than I'd ever expected...
I'm trying to make sense of what I learnt in that place, and how it applies to life beyond.
Some incredible people are helping me.
Please feel welcomed to join.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Focuses on the insights gained from incarceration and the human experience, with episodes covering themes such as personal transformation, resilience, and societal reflections. Examples include the story of Kseniya, who swam to freedom from a Belarusian prison, and Paul Dieppe's exploration of faith and science during his hostage experience.
In each prison cell, a story.
For those who look, a mirror.
I was imprisoned in Belarus.
But amidst darkness, insight – understanding of who I am and what is true.
When you hear about prisoners, you might read them as powerless, impulsive characters.
But I’ve found more strength, choice and wisdom in these stories than I’d ever expected…
I’m trying to make sense of what I learnt in that place, and how it applies to life beyond.
Some incredible people are helping me.
Please feel welcomed to join.
In this episode, I chat with Vika, a human rights defender exiled from Belarus and now based in Lithuania. This was my first conversation with someone who hasn’t been incarcerated, and I was unexpectedly moved by her wisdom. Vika shares how to stay kind in the face of darkness, how to find peace in fighting injustice, and how to be compassionate with ourselves when we feel we haven’t achieved enough.
Her advice on finding our “point of maximum tension”—the moment when life will never be the same, is such incredible guidance for how to fulfil your utmost potential.
The Mirror in My Cell will be on a short break for the next month as we refresh the format. If you have any feedback or thoughts, feel free to reach out!
Learn more about Vika’s work with Viasna, advocating for political prisoners in Belarus, at Viasna’s website.
Reach me at:
Email:mirrorinmycell@gmail.com
Instagram:@thomaszarand
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