The first day of winter in Russia.

Waking up in the morning and feeling like it's all about the New Year to come soon...

You are not able to maintain the same level of will-power that you had when it was warm and sunny. You, not having been addicted to caffeine, just strive for a cup of hot cappucino. But it doesn't save the situation. And then you suddenly realise that this life is all about nothing. It is Friday afternoon and you are walking along lonely, on a deserted Friday afternoon Moscow street and don't see any point in doing it. Not even a piece of common sense in this everyday dealing with your students and big corporate world, getting on in the world and what not. Then, suddenly, you realise that life is all about quite simple things: the sun shining above your head, simple and open-hearted people around you, a warm blanket and a lazy cat, a good movie at night, being alone and being on your own. Yes, it is always better than to depend on someone or something, either pshycologically or physically. One day it all disappears and you have to fight with your own demons.

You put up with it and enjoy solitude. The other day you realised that it is one of the best things in the world.

I think it also works the other way, a lazy cat is company, but although human company can be both good and bad, with the right person it should be amazing - of course finding that person is not easy. Until then solitude can also be good, no compromising, no conflict in schedule, no difference of opinion. Helping friends without feeling guilty or trying to overcome suspicions...