I have a small icon of St. Nicholas. Not being an overly religious person, I do not go to the places of worship very often. Furthermore, I, usually, only say a prayer when I have strong emotional need to connect with God. I don't actively practice any particular religion but I do believe in God or, as I call it, the Universe. I do believe that this small icon protects me from misfortune and bad people. I got this icon from my mother before leaving my family home, back in Russia. She gave it to me when I was packing my stuff in a suitcase and said that St. Nicholas will always help me. My mother said that St. Nicholas helps travelers, like myself. I believe in St. Nicolas. When I am in a very difficult situation, when I do not know what to do, when I am afraid, I start think about God and St. Nicolas and ask them to help me to find the right way. It has always helped me in my immigrant life. It helps me to calm down and feel safe. I am not scared of any problems because I know that I am not alone. 

– GM.

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant