Tolstoy begins by describing the successful and privileged life he lived, but he then experiences a crisis of faith, questioning the value of his life and the existence of God. He writes about how he began to despair and contemplate suicide.Eventually, Tolstoy finds a new sense of purpose and meaning in life through his spiritual awakening and embrace of Christianity. He writes about the importance of living a simple, humble life and devoting oneself to the service of others.