This is like Allen Ginsberg or something. Also, your grandfather sounds not at all unlike my own grandfather, an immigrant from Finland who left his homeland with Russians shooting at him (literally) and came to this country to learn & preach the religion of diesel mechanics. The largest influence in making me who I iz today, outside of me dear old mum and dear old dad.

About your friend who wound up in Amsterdam: that is too heavy a tale to think of right now. Need to celebrate the new year first, then figure out what to do with it.

Hang in there bro, and let's talk soon.
Buy my books, dammit!