"Typically the thought of death may be expected, first to usher us towards whatever happens to matter most to us (be it drinking besides the banks of the Nile, writing a book or making a fortune), and second, to encourage us to pay less attention to the verdicts of others — who will not, after all, be doing the dying for us. The prospect of our own extinction may draw us towards that way of life of which our hearts place the greatest value." - Alain de Botton in Status Anxiety

It's Christmas today in many parts of the world. It's a day that is often tinged with sadness as we remember Christmases past, and the loved ones that used to be a part of this day with us, but which are no longer living. Alain reminds us of a positive way to channel our grief and our fears of our own demise. Not the cheeriest of holiday thoughts, but one I hope you'll benefit from anyways. Happy holidays to you.