Sometimes, I’m struck by a fear so dizzying it feels like narrowly dodging a train as it barrels down the tracks. But the truth is, I boarded that train more than two decades ago. It’s been so long, I can’t even recall why or how I made that choice — but ever since, I’ve never stepped off the iron carriage…

In the evenings, we drank beer so sweet it stung the tip of the tongue, and in that hazy glow, we admired each other’s flaws and loved each other’s assets. On the bus ride home, the moon kept chasing after us. When your hair brushed the nape of my neck, it felt like I might see the whole universe out the window…

Today, I sent apology messages to some old friends. When I was younger, I believed that cutting people off was the only way a relationship could end. I firmly believed that was how I could protect myself. And judging by the mental state I was in back then, maybe it really was…