Appreciate the kind words!

As for democracy in Socialist countries, it's a lot higher than you'd think, even if there's work to be done. They aren't dictatorships and generally never have been, they are usually accused as such for restricting freedom of Capitalists and fascists. I recommend reading Blackshirts and Reds if you want a critical look at the Soviet Union, or Soviet Democracy if you want to learn more about the democratic process. Most Socialist countries follow similar structures.