This started as a generous bullet on my Friday miscellany list, but I think it's a topic that deserves a little more of the spotlight. While I have not watched Game of Thrones, I was astonished to learn that actress Emilia Clarke has had two brain aneurysms, as well as invasive brain surgery. All of... Continue Reading →
The Existential Tension Between Presence and Productivity
In recent weeks, the topic of tension has been repeatedly showing up in my life; specifically, the idea of intentionally creating tension. Life is already filled with some much chaos and uncertainty, so why would we want to add more into the mix? The idea is that modern life has become cushy, with easy access... Continue Reading →
Words of Encouragement
I have a question for you. What is the one thing you need to hear most? What piece of advice would you go back and tell your younger self? Which adage do you wish you could share with everyone else? I personally always return to the same sentiment: It's okay to feel things deeply, but... Continue Reading →
When Everything And Nothing Changes
I've been feeling discombobulated lately. Restless, frustrated, a little bit lonely, and unable to focus. The feeling is subtle, yet intrusive and pervasive to the point of debilitation. I begin each morning with the same routine. I take my blood pressure while reading the day's entry from The Daily Stoic, journal whilst sipping on perfectly milky... Continue Reading →
Groundhog Day
I spent thirty minutes talking with my infectious disease doctor and nurse practitioner this morning. How am I progressing (or not)? What are my prospects? How does my recovery compare to similar cases? Would a different diet, more sleep, or alternative medicine help? "I don't expect you to get worse," she offered. "Gradually, over the... Continue Reading →
Lay Low and Go Slow
Over the last several months, my emotional state has been cycling through periods of relief, anticipation, dread, and hope. In the last nine months, doctors have presented me with the good, the bad, and the uncertain. However, it's only in the last week or so that I've been able to apply the wisdom I have... Continue Reading →
Toughing It Out: Practicing Resilience
Have you ever seen someone suffering and asked yourself how they are still finding reasons to smile? At some point in our lives, all of us have or will be affected by the death of a loved one, loss of a job, diagnosis of a serious illness, or other traumatic event. Initially, most people react to... Continue Reading →