Chapter 86
A Stranger Offers Salvation
“I have the pleasure of addressing Count Bezúkhov, if I am not mistaken,” said the stranger in a deliberate and loud voice. Pierre looked silently and inquiringly at him over his spectacles. “I have heard of you, my dear sir,” continued the stranger, “and of your misfortune.” He seemed to emphasize the last word, as if to say—“Yes, misfortune! Call it what you please, I know that what happened to you in Moscow was a misfortune.”—“I regret it very much, my dear sir.” Pierre flushed and, hurriedly putting his legs down from the bed, bent forward toward the old man…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Map Your Echo Chamber
Draw a simple diagram of the people who regularly give you feedback about your life and work. Next to each person, write what they gain or lose from your current situation. Then identify one area where you might be getting comfortable lies instead of uncomfortable truths. Finally, brainstorm two specific people outside your current circle who could give you honest perspective on this area.
Consider:
- •Consider both obvious benefits (salary, inheritance) and subtle ones (social status, emotional comfort)
- •Look for patterns in what topics people avoid discussing with you
- •Think about who in your life has the least to lose from telling you hard truths
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when someone outside your usual circle told you something about yourself that stung but turned out to be accurate. How did you initially react, and what did you learn from the experience?
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