Brad Montague revisits a memorable 2002 Late Show exchange with Warren Zevon, who, facing terminal cancer, told David Letterman that the crisis taught him to “enjoy every sandwich.” Montague describes watching the clip, then finding himself in an airport mid-trip - tired, anxious, grateful - with a soggy, overpriced sandwich in hand. That mismatch between the comic image and the reality of a lousy sandwich sparks his reflection: Zevon’s line isn’t naïve cheerfulness but a shorthand for valuing time and moments when mortality sharpens perspective.
Montague reframes the maxim more practically: the aim isn’t to pretend every moment is blissful but to notice when a moment (or sandwich) is bad and still be present. Amid laughter, worry, and small domestic joys, he argues, awareness itself is enough - taste it, acknowledge it, you’re here. The piece blends personal anecdote, emotional honesty, and a concise takeaway about mindfulness and acceptance, closing with the simple prompt “Take a bite. Taste it. You’re here.”
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Tech workers like Palantir and Tesla employees face social stigma due to their companies' controversial work and political associations. Many resort to hiding their jobs or fabricating stories to avoid negative reactions in dating scenarios. (wired.com)
Russian cosmism is a philosophical and cultural movement from late 19th- and early 20th-century Russia that combines science, religion, and metaphysics. It emphasizes humanity's cosmic destiny, immortality, and technological progress to explore space and control nature. (en.wikipedia.org)
NAZA, a documentary on Israeli war crimes, will be freely available online in November to ensure public access. The filmmakers also offered free screenings to Israeli cinemas to promote awareness and discussion. (twitter.com)
Ed Zitron is praised as one of the last great bloggers who writes long, well-researched posts without institutional support, often focusing on overlooked subjects like AI and the tech industry. His work combines sharp analysis, satire, and foresight, making him a unique voice in the digital landscape. (observationalepidemiology.blogspot.com)
A Chinese calligraphy workshop led by Roland Buckingham Hsiao emphasized experiential learning, combining practical writing with theoretical insights. Participants explored traditional styles and the emotional and material aspects of calligraphy, such as the example of Wang Xi-zhi's Orchid Pavilion Preface. (viewsproject.wordpress.com)
Claims suggest that AI safety discussions are centered around a controversial group led by Eliezer Yudkowsky, who is accused of running a sex cult in Berkeley. Yudkowsky's influence on AI policy and prominent figures in the industry is widely acknowledged, despite skepticism and denial from some involved parties. (verysane.ai)
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