“I don’t want to give up my country or betray it. If your convictions mean something, you must be prepared to stand up for them and make sacrifices if necessary.”

~ Alexei Navalny, Patriot

A walk rather than a swim after doing housework. It was, as usual, bright. No rain in sight. A busy day, a client, and a trip to Arlington with my daughter to see the space where we are presenting my new play. It was just what we wanted. We made a plan. Had lunch. Enjoyed our time together. Afternoon tea, at a friend’s house; lovely scones and company. A quick visit to a friend recovering from knee surgery, with soup, and then drove another friend to Mass. General to be with her daughter. A chance to be unscheduled and available for others is nice. Finished Alexei Navalny’s memoir. Sat is silence for awhile. So deeply moving. Possibly the most inspiring book I’ve ever read. He knew he was going to die in prison. And he was willing to accept this. How brave his wife Yulia is; she knew it too. And she supported him every step of the way. He really was willing, and did, give his life for his convictions. I will miss his words in my ears. I will remember this book, his life, always.