He enters your life with a devlish grin, and a tilt of his head as he listens to whatever you're saying. You start to notice that somehow the laughter potential of a gathering increases whenever he's in the room. And then after some moments of connecting, of sharing, something shifts and you really take him in. Before you know it, you're wandering around singing, "because you're beautiful and curvy, but unless we're kind of pervy I don't think we're gonna last... do you take in the-"

Leonya fills me with a sense of peace. He is truly a wonderful being. Not only can I turn to him for advice and wisdom, but we can play together too. It's not often that I meet someone who's sarcasm and cynisism match my own, but who also have a deep compassion and love that balance it out. This is a grounded soul who will be there for you in times of need, and who I have shared, and will continue to share many moments of laughter and joy with.

Leonya is one of my very best friends and brothers. It has been a real joy for me to see him continually grow and expand in so many ways during the 10 years we have known each other. He has helped me to grow in so many ways as well. His intelligence, resourcefulness and giving nature are real assets to our community. He is very generous and kind and I feel like I could ask him any favor and know that he would help out. He is a true friend and I look forward to many many more years of his companionship!

~shiva

This is a testimonial written on the basis of only one evening's acquaintance, so "caveat lector."

Not only did Lenya and his lovely wife Lotus make an unfamiliar setting instantly comforting to a random stranger they met that evening, but Lenya has an unshakeable calm humor and insight about him. I can easily imagine him disarming an angry mob or touching off a major celebration with a few well-chosen words. I am fortunate to have met him.

This is one crazy Russian and I love him! I met him by chance of circumstance and I am so glad he came into my life. He's got at least half a dozen names he goes by and he's definitely dancing to the beat of a different drummer. He's got real passion and zest for life and his peaceful happy smile is sublime - it makes me happy even when I am blue. Keep on sharing your magic smile, my dancing friend!

Damn Russians... Damn dirty russians! Damn you and your techno! Damnit!

Within this man's smile, I sometimes catch a glimmer of ecstatic joy, as if from some other dimentional reality that he must also be traversing. Here's a man with a Good Heart, a strong Will, and a sharp mind. A dear friend, and one happenin' cat to vibe with.