The entire world is aware of the fuel shortages being experienced throughout Russia as a result of Ukraine’s targeted strikes on Russian oil refineries and other strategic facilities.

The Russian people themselves are certainly cognizant of the facts that they must sit in hours-long queues for just a few liters of gas for their vehicles; that deliveries of food are being delayed and often spoiled; that in some areas trash cannot be picked up, or emergency vehicles dispatched because they have no fuel; and that prices have skyrocketed as a result.

Russian farmers are aware that they are running out of fuel to operate their tractors, milking machines, and other equipment, or the vehicles in which they deliver their products to market.

But the Feenstras’ social media broadcasts remain silent on the subject, filled instead with lengthy descriptions of the most mundane aspects of life on the farm: maximizing the egg production of their chickens, grinding the feed for the larger animals, and continuing the never-ending construction projects.

There is nary a word about their recent trip to war-torn, fuel-deprived Crimea, nor a mention of any difficulties or concerns regarding Vladimir Putin’s “special military operation” — which is completely understandable, in light of the penalties being imposed for speaking against the administration in general or the war in particular.

Instead, they collect their award as “family of the year”; accept their free trips to Georgia, Crimea, and that extended stay in Canada and the U.S. over the winter; and pretend — like good little comrades — that everything is rosy.

In truth, they really have no choice.

But I have noticed that the last few videos have been missing Arend Feenstra’s normal cheery “Good morning!” greeting, and his usual comment on what a beautiful day it is. He looks like a man with a weight on his shoulders, unable to share it or put it down.

Sadly, if my observations are correct, he is far from alone. I do hope the Feenstras’ faith and the closeness of their family carry them safely through these difficult times. But I can’t help wishing they had stayed in Canada when they had the chance.

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
7/3/26