Leon's Russian Journal (2000-2002)

A very abbreviated version of a work in progress.

My Russian Experience, Part I (December, 2000)
In conversation with Alexander Sytnik, before I learned that I would go to Saratov, he told me that should I visit Russia it must be in the winter. When I asked why, he smiled and said, “to get the true Russian experience.” Little did I know exactly what that meant. Approximately two months later I was on my way to Saratov – in December. Arriving in Moscow I saw snow, but I had seen snow before. Was this the experience to which he referred? Vlad met Craig, Paul and me at the airport. And we crammed luggage and ourselves into the small car. At this point I began to feel the sensation that an adventure was about to begin, though still miles and miles from Saratov. We did a quick run about in Moscow, I was seeing what I had only dreamt of or saw in movies. It was at once surreal and familiar. Soon it was time for the train. Ah, the train. Several years ago I had viewed a documentary about some Brits taking the train from Moscow to Beijing. I was fascinated by the scenery, the people and the villages. I told myself that one day I would like to do that. Well, here I was in Moscow boarding a similar train heading to Saratov. Maybe not in the same direction as the train in the documentary, but nonetheless a Russian train plowing through the Russian countryside on a cold and snowy December night taking me to what was to become the greatest adventure of my life. Little did I know how profound it would be. Every experience was as if it were for the first time. Whether I fully comprehended what Sytnik meant by being in Russia in the winter or not what I experienced was a warm and caring people who opened their homes and their hearts to me. It was profound. It was a gift that I shall always cherish.

My Russian Experience, Part II (June, 2001)
December in Russia was my first impression of the countryside and the people. It was almost prophetic that I return in June and see the rebirth of nature. The cold gray skies and freezing winds were replaced by what I would call Carolina Blue skies with wispy clouds and warm breezes. The transition was noticeable everywhere - green grass, brightly colored flowers and even the potholes in the roads shone forth. And, in the people, the burden of the winter months and heavy coats had been lifted and given way to a renewed freshness. One thing still had not changed, that of the spirit of the citizens. Those same warm and caring people that I met in December were still there - same as they ever were - people that I now call my friends. When I left in late June, I felt that a part of me stayed behind. I hope to go back to see if I can find that part, to reason with it why and to set it free to stay amongst its old friends.

My Russian Experience, Part III (May, 2002)
Trepidation, anticipation and much preparation. Change is always inevitable. This was my last trip under the ECU-SSU Partnership Grant to be finalized by a conference presentation. Victory Day in Moscow was like a TV drama come to life. Surreal, but real. I am still reeling. Moscow is like most any large city - lots of people and places, but confining. There was a significant difference in temperatures in early May compared to early June of 2001. I was better prepared this time. That train ride into the night - no snow, but lots of good friends chugging onward to Saratov and beyond. Saratov has become a familiar inviting oasis, relaxing but always taunting one's senses. Balashov remains my elusive resting place - a home away from home - with people so dear. I don't know if that part of me will ever rest until I can find my way back again.

Reviews

[Leon Gipson]

This is a raw work with missing puncuation and incomplete grammar. So, whatever you find wrong feel free to "mark it up." Enjoy.