Perhaps we are all simply part of some universal and maniacal video reality game with faux human players. And if that is true, maybe I am simply another pawn (a chubby one) in this grand amusement park of an alternate reality.

My part allowed for innumerable visits to Indian buffets, yet I was prohibited by design to ever secure personal, career and monetary success. The Good Life was verboten! Gym memberships were expensive and taxing. I convinced myself regularly that all my challenges fell on many shoulders – but never mine. How convenient, lazy, and ultimately lubricated by denial.

Still, I am.

We are