First, I always want to thank you for the many thought-provoking pieces you have written.

Could Russia have gone in a different direction? I re-watched the film "Zorba The Greek" a while back. It's all in there, 70 years ago. The difference between European enlightenment, so to speak, and the insular, petty and cruel people of the Greek (in our case Russian) countryside.

In the movie, was the English writer and his new friend Zorba heroes? Or were they selfish, wealthy (the Englishman) narcissists who got a young woman killed because they chose not to look at the harsh reality and deep insecurities of the people they were living among?

Is Russia and Ukraine fighting the war the West believes they're fighting? One for democracy and freedom? Or is it something baser and emotional?

Is democracy a choice, or is it an option for people (nations) who become very wealthy and don't need to ravage the house of a dead woman? I don't know. I look forward to your next piece!