I wonder if maybe the moment's not that embraceable in such circumstances, anyway? Because maybe it contains unpleasant factors, like doing a job you might not enjoy, or interacting with people you dislike, etc. Maybe looking forward to promotions and holidays is an understandable coping mechanism.

That's a great question! Frankly, I wonder how you did all that, too. Though probably, I imagine that's what got you out eventually, too. Maintaining such a firmly rooted self outside of work. 'Cause I imagine the older one gets, the more defined by the job, the scarier it becomes to leave even if you could - because who the hell are you?

I do. Even in my fifties so few of my friends have escaped that there aren't many who have the same kinds of freedoms.

I think that's another thing that keeps us bound to a certain life maybe. Better to be miserable in this job together than to be free alone.

Thank you, Eric :)