The author discusses the challenges of crafting an out-of-office message after a personal tragedy, highlighting the struggle of balancing professionalism and personal disclosure.
The societal expectations around grief and the pressure to provide a 'good excuse' for taking time off work are explored, shedding light on the complexities of navigating personal loss in professional settings.
The post touches on broader themes related to privacy, empathy, and the need for more open conversations around grief and loss, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and accepting one's emotional state.
The author's experience in academia made him doubt his profession and himself, leading to a significant shift in his life.
The transition out of academia was filled with sadness and nostalgia, but also led to new beginnings and hope for the future.
The recovery process involved accepting personal truths, finding support in others with similar experiences, and rediscovering joy after difficult times.
Our society is going through a period of collective insanity with disturbing events and conflicts.
Finding solace and promoting mental well-being can be achieved through activities like using a steam room and engaging with thought-provoking content, such as books.
Exploring faith, doubt, and deeper questions through literature and music, like the work of Nick Cave, can lead to personal growth and introspection.
Achilles' lament for Patroklos in Iliad 19 explores the impact of Patroklos' death on others, showcasing themes of personal loss and grief.
Achilles expresses a collapse of identities with Patroklos and projects the loss of a single person onto his living father and son, illustrating a narrative of replacement and surrogacy.
Grief is associative and unpredictable, touching not only the mourner but also the internal and external audiences, encouraging reflection on personal losses and the importance of responding to others' suffering.
The author has transitioned from focusing on 'leaning in' or 'leaning out' to simply trying to lean in different aspects of life.
Taking on extra work can alleviate financial worries but bring new stressors of time management and choices.
The societal view on work and success has shifted from a 'work harder' mentality to recognizing the importance of balance, mental health, and avoiding burnout.
Cancers can have causes beyond lifestyle choices, like genetics or unknown factors. It's important to raise awareness and fund research for rare cancers with no clear causes.
Even in tough times, focus on cherishing every moment and finding joy in the little things. Enjoy life and don't let anyone steal your happiness.
Express gratitude for the love and happiness in your life. Embrace the people and things that bring you joy, and remember to spread love and positivity.
The protagonist reflects on his father's life and premature death, feeling the weight of unfulfilled potential.
Returning to his childhood home after facing job loss and relationship troubles, the protagonist grapples with feelings of failure and uncertainty about the future.
Finding an old PlayStation console sparks memories of bonding with his father through a video game, eventually leading to a poignant realization about letting go of past victories.
To live in this world, you must love what is mortal and hold it close to you as your own life depends on it, then be ready to let it go when the time comes.
Grief, starlight, and living from the heart are key themes in this post.
The importance of embracing impermanence and being able to release things when the time comes is highlighted.