It might seem from writing "why are we alone?" that Lenya is in what Americans call "a bad mood." Its not true. She is actually just wondering WHY? Are the answers we think are so important even true? In some ways it is completely obvious that, as Rosa says, Len is not alone. All right, Rosa, you are right. Look, I am not feeling sorry for myself here! I am just trying to reflect on the scattering. Is the scatter good? Is it really offering such a unique educational experience as laid out in its charter? Or have I just forsaken my more traditional Moldovan ways for some American wild west idea of "independence"? Am I just obsessed with masculinity once again, heading out for the frontier with something to prove? All I'm saying is I want to eat dinner with you every day.

I am reflecting on Jophet now. When was the last time we had any experience beyond what falls into the category of "The Visit"? I do believe it was 2003. And with Zoe?? Before my busy last year, it was one seminal summer in Chisinau in gone but not forgotten 1998!! I couldn't hear Rosa very well because it was loud where I was, but it was something like, "well, aren't those some of your most intense ___________?" "Yes," I said, "those are some of my best memories. But I want to spend my life with the people I love, not just call them on the phone."

Then another time, Jophet said something like, our community will continue to exist in fits and starts. This seemed like the hard truth I had to face. It seems like the truth to face now. But I'd like to call to mind the night outside the Machias Grange, not much more than a year ago. Some young ladies had been talking to you about raking again. We were sitting outside in the dark after and I asked you if you were considering it. You said "No, I'd need my people with me." "But they can be your people now", I said, "What's the difference? We're all people." You said, "The difference is they're not you(s)."

I am the first to admit there is no solution, but that kind of practical explanation comes up short for my heart, as I have been reminded again and again this past year. So if you've been thinking of spending any time in the Bloomsburg area, I can only say that I support the idea whole-heartedly.