Stay Strong

Embracing Change

The confrontation in the town square lingered in Carina’s mind long after it had ended. Though George’s support reassured her, she couldn’t shake the feeling that she needed to do more to blend in. If she wanted to survive—and perhaps thrive—in this unfamiliar time, she would have to adapt.

One morning, as sunlight streamed through the curtains of George’s flat, Carina stood in front of a mirror and studied her reflection. Her wavy black hair framed her pale face, and her modern clothes—although simple—still stood out starkly against the muted, conservative styles of the 1930s.

“I need a change,” she said aloud to herself.

That afternoon, she enlisted George’s help to find clothes and accessories that fit the era. He accompanied her to a tailor and several shops, helping her navigate the strange new fashion world. Carina’s modern sensibilities clashed with the limited options, but she reminded herself that this was a necessary step.

At one shop, a kind older woman behind the counter offered advice. “You’ve got a lovely figure, dear,” she said, pulling out a navy-blue dress with a modest neckline and flared skirt. “This one’s timeless.”

Carina hesitated, brushing her fingers over the fabric. It was nothing like the jeans and sweaters she was used to, but there was a certain charm to it.

“You’ll look stunning,” George said, smiling encouragingly.

Carina glanced at him, her cheeks flushing slightly. “Alright,” she said with a small smile. “I’ll give it a try.”

The transformation didn’t stop with her wardrobe. With the older woman’s guidance, Carina learned to style her hair in soft waves pinned neatly to one side, a look more in line with the fashion of the time.

When she emerged from the shop in her new attire, George’s jaw dropped slightly before he caught himself. “You look...” He trailed off, searching for the right words. “Like I belong here?” Carina finished, a hint of nervousness in her tone. George shook his head. “No. You look... amazing.” Her cheeks reddened again, but she couldn’t help smiling. Over the next few days, Carina tested out her new look in public. The reaction was immediate: the stares and whispers from townspeople grew less frequent, and she was able to move about more freely.

Even so, fitting in was more than just appearances. Carina made an effort to learn the customs and mannerisms of the time, observing the way women spoke, walked, and interacted with others. It was exhausting work, but she was determined to adapt without losing herself.

One evening, as she and George sat on a park bench overlooking the river, Carina reflected on the changes she had made. “I feel like I’m losing parts of myself,” she admitted, staring at the water. “Like I’m becoming someone else just to survive here.” George leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. “You’re not losing yourself,” he said. “You’re adapting. There’s a difference.” Carina turned to him, her blue eyes searching his face. “What if I forget who I really am?” George met her gaze, his expression serious. “You won’t. Because no matter how much you change on the outside, the person you are inside doesn’t go away. And for what it’s worth, I think the world needs more people like you—people who aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo.” Carina smiled, his words soothing the unease that had been gnawing at her. “Thank you, George,” she said softly. “For what?” he asked. “For reminding me who I am.”

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Carina felt a renewed sense of purpose. She might never truly belong in this time, but she could make a life here—one step, one change at a time.