I was talking about a somewhat philosophical topic in a classroom setting; it may have been about “good.” The instructor shot down everything I said easily, leaving me feeling quite stupid. Then a friend of my brother’s spoke up very intelligently, so intelligently I couldn’t quite understand what he was saying even though everyone else could. He argued everything I’d said. I wondered, “What is wrong with me that I am so stupid lately?” I also kept seeing this man, whose nickname appeared in print was “Platoon Leader,” and my brother as football teammates.

I woke up wondering if I have become stupid through spending too much time alone (by choice).