Was writing to my niece who told me she was stressed about writing her theisis. This is what I wrote: Here's a 'stupid' piece of advice from a nobody. In life, we all go from birth to death. You can go about it like every little thing is a matter of life and death and make stress a life long habit. Or you can live life like a magnificent whale and all other (non human) beings on earth. We're all so caught up in seeking validation and meaning in the nonsensical dramas of life--whether it a career, savings, friends or family We are made to believe that they are imperative goals. They are NOT. Some of the best things in life like water and air are free. Our breath, our minds and bodies as our instrument come are also free. They are more valuable than anything we can work for. But it is hard to remember and execute.