July 17, 2024:
His friend has been cold, very cold, since their last time together.
Perhaps she was offended by him, where he was in truth trying hard to at least mimic going through the motions. Since then he doesn't think he cares enough to care. People change, and it's been years since he truly liked her enough to be patient with her judgmentalism.
He wants to leave work but he feels trapped. Disrespect of the leadership. But, so? It's all so easy, and he spends the days reading.
He stopped drinking months ago. Stopped eating weeks ago apart from egg drop soup. Shed 12 or 13 pounds. He likes himself better without the belly.
He is very concerned for the country and the world. It's all so very very sad.