Take a look at this news clip, because it deserves special attention for several reasons.

It illustrates all too often the harsh realities of life, that young lady, as a person growing up in the Russian countryside. (And keep in mind that there are thousands of villages like this in the former Soviet Union.)

     * There is no father or mother.
     * Long winters Russia.
     * No running water in their village, which means that children should fill them up containers at the local pump, and then cart it back home on a sled.
     * Lack of basic infrastructure.
     * Poverty and Decay
     * Environmental pollution.

However, this video also shows how quickly this young lady rose, and rose to the challenge not only for ourselves but for all the people around her as well. Pay attention to the absolute stoicism on her face as she manages to achieve this.

To an outsider the nature and strength showed a young Russian woman, it would seem that with rare exception.

But I know better ..

And that's just because I've seen so many Russian women, who show such courage and determination in the face of such odds.

And it was a real honor to know them.