I’m in the emergency services waiting room. My father is having trouble breathing. I have had a similar feeling before, drowning in air. It’s not pleasant, and it hurts to see my dad like this. I think he’ll be ok, but it stirs thoughts of mortality, both my own and that of the people I love. My own mortality doesn’t bother me that much. I figure, in relation to most human existence over the history of the species, my 25 years on this planet has been a stay both lengthy and pleasant. Considering the average life-span and gritty lifestyle of most homo-sapiens that have ever existed, I’m doing pretty damn well. It’s good to keep things in perspective and remember to count your blessings.

Seeing loved ones in pain and imagining my life without them is a different story entirely. It’s hard for me to deal with, especially when I feel like I’m unable to help them at all. That helplessness is a sobering feeling. It shows you that, no matter how nice you might have it, how well things are going, most happiness is dependent on the fragile existence of the people you love.


Take Care,
-Burnem’