I’m 35. I’ve had some tough times. I’ve struggled and I’m sure I’ll struggle again at some point, but aside from politics and covid, I’ve been in a sort of golden age for like six years, and things have been getting better throughout. There have been some shitty spots, but it’s been joyful in general. There was a time about ten years ago that I truly thought about giving up for good, and I’m really glad that I didn’t. I never thought I’d have so much to live for; I didn’t even think I deserved a shot at it.

Work hard (but also rest), stay curious, and tell jokes. Joy is possible, but you may need to be the one to provide it, but it pays dividends.