Hello my fellow Homosapiens

Its that time of year again!

Merry Christmas!

I have had a time to reflect on everything that God has blessed me with, and am completly convinced that he is not only in control of everything, but also enjoys making these some of the best days of my life. Sometimes as I meander down the lonely streets of St. Pete, I have to stop and remind myself where I am. It suddenly becomes very surreal to me, and I am agast in amazement. It all started when I was a young kid, and God has carried me through it all, and has brought me here just like he said. I am completly in love with this country, its traditions, its people. Yes, I still stand out as the ugly American. Many have described me as dirty, rude, weird, and crazy. Many say I smile too much, or I have too many fantastic days. They say I am crazy for not owning a coat. I say they are all overdressed. Some say I am too honest when making friends, and that I should just keep to myself and ignore the problems around me. There is one problem with this. I have a joy in my heart that many do not have here. I have a joy that I can't hide nor keep to myself. I think of Christmas and all that it entails, and have to thank my Lord for what he has done. For without his birth, we would be alone. In some ways, I do not miss the glorified shopping season of Christmas in the United States. I am here in Russia, where most do not celebrate Christmas. I have a ten inch Christmas tree, some Christmas music, and friends. It seems that in missing Christmas, and my desperation to celebrate it some how, I have reached out and grasped the bare essentials. The true meanings of Christmas - the saviors birth, friends/family, and a joy filled heart. My heart breaks when I see the hopeless faces of the many people on the streets. I am spending this Christmas with good friends that I have been blessed with. I miss you all very much. I pray that you all have the most terrific Christmas that you have ever had. Please keep me in your prayers, I need everyone one of them. I love you all. Merry Christmas.

Peter