Goodbye Mother Russia

Dear Russia,
I've spent lots of time with you. You've shown me lots of history and art and museum's...enough to keep me satisfied for the next while. You taught me how to speak Russian, about the corruption of your government, and that a beer can win someone over quicker than any type of currency. You proved to me that it doesn't matter what time of day it is, you can get drunk at just about anytime. You gave me a sweet look into the Arctic Circle, and showed me that Moscow isn't Russia but its own country and St. Petersburgs is just a branch of Western Europe. You gave me a sweet Babushka who held my arm while crossing the street and showered me with kisses, when I didn't have a beard and who invited me to come stay whenever I am back here. I remember I asked you one day, "why doesn't the internet work today?" you answered me, saying, "This is Russia." Somehow I knew to be content with the answer. I learned that you run your country mostly off of traditions, whether or not it's in the best taste for the country, government, economy or people. Though I feel I overstayed my welcome just a bit, I still miss parts of you as well. I miss the fresh Arctic Mountain air of Kirovsk, swimming in the Holy Lake of the White Sea, climbing the walls of the monastary on the Solovestky islands, picking any tree I wanted to in the park to mark my territory, the small, strong branch where I felt the spirit so strong, haggling with taxi cabs, and souvenir shop owners, being able to stand out because I'm an American yet being able to blend in because I'm part ninja, and lots more. So thank you Mother Russia. I hope you never go Commy again.