Background Story
During a time of immense loss, I met Alexandra. As things settled, I realized she was my divine light. Within 18 months, I lost five family members, including my father, and my job. My mother suffered a major injury. I was on the verge of being completely alone.
We met at the perfect moment, though I didn't realize it at the time. The lesson here is that in our darkest times, we may receive the greatest gifts. These gifts might be something we've long searched for or something we need right at that moment. They can come as a person or an event. We just need to keep our minds and hearts open.
An Unstoppable Spark
One day, overwhelmed with a desire to connect with Alexandra, the idea of the Poem Box came to life. I initially thought of sending her a series of cards, one for each day, to convey my plea. After a friend shared insights into Russian culture, particularly the appreciation of life through poems and rhymes, I delved into the works of Pushkin and Mandelstam. Inspired, I began writing a collection of poems and stories about our time together.
Writing these stories and poems stretched my abilities; my best grades in English and Creative Writing were only a "C." Yet, the words and emotions flowed, and I completed over 20 pieces in a few days, something I never imagined possible. Now, I can barely put this site together.
I don't seek recognition, awards, or better than a "C" from any English teacher who might read this. The only opinion that matters is that of the person in this story.
The Universe is Playing a Part
(Playing a Part) Yes, I believe the Universe is still at work. Our initial meeting was at a quaint place called the Alchemist Cafe. The Universe seemed to orchestrate each of our encounters, though it didn't force upon me the lesson of recognizing the remarkable presence of Alexandra.
As I pondered reaching out to her, a new branch of the Alchemist Cafe serendipitously opened a few blocks from my house.
Personally, I am not naturally creative, however, Alexandra is an artist in every way. I had to devise a way to reach out to her.
A good friend from Ukraine, who enlightened me about Russian culture, also holds a degree in Russian literature and became an invaluable guide.
The Poem Box was a last-minute creation, assembled with items from Amazon and Hobby Lobby that appeared just in time—handmade paper, note cards, a glitter bomb, and ribbons.
When I asked a friend to receive the box and arrange for an Uber delivery, he went a step further and hand-delivered it himself.
Despite missing the deadline to send the box due to an impending storm, I managed to send it the next day at a discount. UPS ensured its delivery despite the weather causing widespread flight delays.
All my experiences with Alexandra felt intentional, though it took me time to see their meaning—something she recognized immediately. I hope her heart continues to warm to the idea of "us" and our future.
In the book, "The Alchemist," one quote resonates deeply: “...when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” I believe that both Alexandra and I want "something," and the Universe has brought us together, continually fueling my efforts to reignite a force so powerful it can turn our story into one fit for the Hallmark Channel - graciously pivoting from the melancholy nature of both our cultures.
