Some mornings, I sit before my computer and, as the sun rises, feel gratitude emanate through me. I give thanks to a world to which I belong, for having projects that matter to me, for seeing my ideas and plans get realized, for being friends with people who are capable of kindness, and, not the least, for managing to live as a philosopher.

“To live as a philosopher”: What a beautiful, noble thought. Let’s see whether I am up to it.