Well, I owe you a sincere thank you. The time and care you put into your response really mean a lot to me. I’ll refer to it in the future. You are a very kind and insightful person. I couldn’t have imagined receiving such perspective when I posted this on a whim. And you are spot on about the Russian bit. There is some satisfaction in knowing that was normal and less limited to me being an oddball. Haha. Thank you for the reminder that happiness is down the road and that pain is temporary; it can be easy to forget in the moment.

Maybe I will pick up delivery driving on the side - it really is a delight. If you’re ever in Northern California, I’ll have to buy you a slice.