WAITING IN FAITH FOR THE THEOTOKOS: MY ELEVEN-HOUR TRIAL AMIDST A FEW FOOLS

June 5^th/6^th, 2026

A person's true measure in life often lies in how much injustice and untruth they can carry. A recent event, during which I spent eleven hours overnight waiting in line [04.06/05.06.2026] to venerate the Belt of the Most Holy Theotokos, brought me a great spiritual trial, but also deep reflection upon human nature.

In that line, where we all should have been gathered in peace, prayer, and humility, I experienced a series of incomprehensible provocations, shoving, and unpleasant comments from SEVERAL unknown individuals. Instead of the inner peace I sought, I found myself battling forced, intrusive thoughts and provocations that were clearly deliberate—the product of either profound misunderstanding or orchestrated lies circulating about me.

The only thing I cannot comprehend is what such people are seeking at a holy site. Were I in their place, I would tremble for my own fate and that of my loved ones if I caused malice to another out of nowhere, especially before the face of a shrine that expects something entirely different from us. In that crowd, I hold only those who acted in bad faith, with the goal of shaking my peace, responsible for such unworthy behavior. There a person could have truly felt who was who. Yet, there were moments of grace too, like the comforting presence of a girl from Zvezdara (or Borča), which was entirely pleasant.

I accepted all this suffering as my trial and a sacrifice I had to bear. I tried with all my might to control myself, to avoid falling for the provocations, and to preserve my dignity. It hurts when people condemn and attack you for no reason at all, but I believe that everyone ultimately carries their own cross and answers for their deeds.

I thank God and the Most Holy Theotokos for giving me the strength to remain calm, as well as to write this text now, which conveys my experience and thoughts in a dignified, Christian, and mature manner, without unnecessary bitterness and the vividness of bizarre details, so that my friends can understand what I went through.