I could sense a “wind of change” as I walked through Gorky Park, but the change can be better described as an internal change of perception. Instead of soldiers walking by, I saw football fans from around the world and Russians enjoying an afternoon stroll. Russia is an incredible place that surprises. It is more like the U.S. than I ever imagined. Aside from politics and a different version of democracy than what we are used to, it’s people and beauty are wonderful and have more in common that that which makes us different. Too often our perceptions are steered by Hollywood and not reality. This opportunity to experience Russia makes me wish I could share this new-found view with everyone I know.