Well, another week, another slew of cultural and social issues afflicting the United States. I was a kid during the Cold War, and as we moved into the 90s I thought America would just get better and smarter and more woke, which I don’t think is a bad word. I spend a lot of time with my 11 year old, trying to convince them that there is really only one truth she needs to learn: Treat others the way you wish to be treated. That means realizing that other people have a different cultural history than you, and respecting that.

Also this week, I finished the first draft of my sixth book. Something I actually started before Covid. My first five books were published over the course of two years, so to take two years to finish this one was discouraging.

And yet, it’s hard to be excited. It’s hard not to think that writing silly little thrillers is not doing much to improve the world. Why should we keep doing creative work?

I honestly don’t know, and I struggle with it. I can only say that when I’m doing creative work, I feel like a better person. I think more of myself, and it makes me feel braver when it comes to opening myself up to others.

Obviously, there are things I can and am doing to try and make our society a better place – vote, people! – but I think it’s healthy to continue on with your artistic endeavors, and encourage others to do the same.