Nikolai’s prayer for guidance is unexpectedly answered—at least, that’s how it looks. In reality, Sonya’s letter is a good example of Tolstoy’s view of the complexity of events. While multiple factors play into Sonya’s decision, human beings prefer to focus on a single explanatory cause, like a timely miracle. In a way, though, Sonya’s act isn’t surprising. Her whole life, she’s been sacrificing herself out of gratitude to the Rostovs.