Before me stood an immense building. In its façade was a narrow door leading into a dark space. From behind the door came a voice.

“Do you wish to cross the threshold?”

“I do.”

“Do you know what awaits you?”

“I do.”

“Cold, hunger, hatred, ridicule, contempt, prison, illness, even death?”

“I know.”

“You will be cut off from everyone. You will lose your freedom, and you may never know the gratitude of those for whom you will make your sacrifice.”

“I know.”

“You could still change your mind. There is time.”

“I do not wish to change it.”

“Even if you fail? Even if your sacrifice brings no result at all?”

“I cannot know that. But I will do all I can.”

The door opened. A young woman stood on the threshold. Her face was pale, her eyes bright and resolute.

“Come in,” said the voice.

And she crossed the threshold.

The threshold is the moment when a person consciously accepts the price of freedom and conviction. Beyond it, there is no turning back.