Elena, my post was fairly long. My intent was to point out the lack of any real question; mostly statements of opinion; only a few sentences at the end regarding the ruble.

As long as we have both been here on this forum, you have accurately identified my writing style; sometimes a long, droning buildup to a few statements at the end. You have also identified that the reader may often need to think twice to grasp the real message. (Sometimes necessary to try to sneak past Marina, Yelena and Roksolana, who have the daunting task of trying to decide what posts to permit in good taste.) Yes, sometimes it may appear I have more than one intent. This time, you missed my intent.

No double meaning intended here. If I insulted the ruble or Russians, please forgive me; was never my intention. Many people are suffering around the world today; never would I mock the difficulties of innocent people, in any country. My library has more books about Russia than most Russians. One can quickly become lost in your culture and history; it is vast and fascinating. One reason thousands of men come to this site is because they admire the quality and character of you women who are a result of that immense Slavic heritage (that and your exceptional beauty). I am sorry, Elena; if you feel I meant a subtle dig at you or your people, I have done a poor job of writing. That was never my goal, especially now at Christmas. Only pointing out that the remark about the ruble was unnecessary.

Am I politically outspoken regarding world governments? Not all the time; besides, our moderators would be all over that with big heavy shovels!