Contrary to popular belief, you can absolutely run away from your problems.

I mean, it doesn’t work… they’ll follow you.

But the running part is nice, right?

For a bit?

No?

Lately, when people ask "how are you?" I've struggled with how to respond. Life's been more challenging than I've let even myself acknowledge, so I don't know how much of that I'm supposed to say. My grandfather on my dad's side would always answer that question with "can't complain." He'd wait a beat-and-a-half before adding "doesn't do any good anyway." His delivery is what made it though; he'd be completely straight-faced. His eyes would give him away with this frivolity that just didn't match the monotone repartee. I always thought it was funny because of the "baghhh shucks" nature of a punchline about being ignored. But now I kind of wonder how serious a statement that might've been at times when no one caught it.

Things are shifting for me kind of rapidly right now. It's jarring but wildly relieving. In a lot of ways, they're slowing down yet slingshotting me forward. It's like these puzzle pieces I've been juggling for years all decided to fall into place within a two-week span.

I've been running a lot, too, and there's definitely a bit of irony in there somewhere.

But, when people ask, I still have no idea what to say…

Not great but not bad, either?

Actually—good.

I’m good.

* * *

You?

onward.

For more on this daily column, read the backstory here. And if you know someone who'd appreciate this, pass it along.