Kaida describes Russian life today as a multi-generational layering of culture, politics, and religion, much like the matroshka, the traditional Russian nesting doll. Many churches are under restoration. At Christmas time, St. Basil's on Red Square is lit up like a candy cane folk art piece. Kaida speaks effortless Russian. I talked to people with Ph.D.s who spoke three languages.
Children beg for food in the streets.
The people are in shock. They are used to having the state take care of them. It is heartbreaking. But Kaida also visited several Moscow families and found them to be warm and extremely generous. I saw three generations of one family living in a four-room apartment.