40 Years Summarized
It’s my birthday, allegedly.
Having completed the first year of my fifth decade (you do the math), I’d like to share a little summary of my life and times so far.
First age
In the world: the gulf war, perestroika.
Biggest hits: gaining adequate control of bodily functions, close kinship with the insect world, getting kicked out of school.
Zeitgeist: building sand castles and fighting with Moroccan kids.
Most important lesson: sometimes, a pipe to the face is the only answer.
Second age
In the world: peace treaty with Jordan, Rabin assassination.
Biggest hits: discovering fantasy, gaming, and metal, first and longest love.
Zeitgeist: playing on the computer, a lot.
Most important lesson: a few good friends can turn any hell into heaven.
Third age
In the world: second intifada, 9/11.
Biggest hits: first hardship, first job, first publication, first apartment.
Zeitgeist: long walks and long talks.
Most important lesson: virtue is more important than coolness.
Fourth age
In the world: second Lebanon war, Arab spring.
Biggest hits: starting a business, exploring Europe.
Zeitgeist: writing, hiking and tabletop gaming.
Most important lesson: don't argue to convince the other guy, argue for the audience.
Fifth age
In the world: COVID lockdowns, October 7.
Biggest hits: gaining an amazing online following, first serious novel contract.
Zeitgeist: anger. So much anger.
Most important lesson: If someone hates you, there’s nothing you can do to please them, so don’t try.
Heh. I just noticed that both my earliest and most recent big impressions are bus-sized missiles exploding over my head. I guess it’s true what they say:
Plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose.
If you enjoy my writing, please consider supporting me on ko-fi.
Happy Birthday ! 🎉🎊🎈🎁
Happy Birthday Uri, Lots of Love from Islamabad 💐