I'm sorry!!!!!

I know I should’ve written many months ago. 

But the truth is that following my last post, winter came quickly, and I wasn’t prepared, and it nearly broke me. For this Miami boy who moved to Los Angeles and thought those night were cold, iced-over sidewalks, towering snowbanks and freezing temperatures were more than I could mentally or physically handle. I fell 10 times on the ice, openly cursed my way to work for weeks on-end, and lost my sense of touch every single day for four months. 

This doesn’t include the daily challenges of not understanding a thing anyone said—or yelled— to me. And when spring came, and then summer, I had fallen into such a routine—work, friends, love, service, life—that unfortunately did not include this blog. So, I’m ashamed to admit that this particular goal fell through the cracks. 

I’m sorry. 

Here’s the quick update. I found someone with whom I want to spend the rest of my life. I helped some of the most marginalized people in Ukrainian society find their voice, and organize. Ukraine has a new, determined group of activists to listen to. I’ve made unbreakable friendships, sisterhoods and brotherhoods that will last a lifetime, and heard some amazing new music along the way. I have served. 

Я люблю тебе Україну. After an unbelievable and unmatchable year, I leave this country next week. I will see you all soon. Thank you for your patience and for your many thoughts. Your thoughts kept me warm.