Behavior Under Stress

True character shows its colors in times of stress—the reason why we praise sang froid and grace under fire. I’d also extend this analogy to a body under stress of alcohol; some are then mean drunks, others carry their liquor, and the best become markedly benevolent. We’re undergoing double stress these days—the stress of an economy hitting rocks and an election. Elections produce a combination of conflict and of giddiness. Displays of “true character” are all too visible in such interesting times.

A Dog’s Life? Not Quite

Medical days powerfully reconnect me to earthly realities; they produce stress. I note here that stress, at any rate, is a pretty constant accompaniment throughout adult life, but it is then mild enough so that we become accustomed to it except in times of transition, thus on awakening and, getting ready to go to work, on resuming the burdens of the day. In retirement most of that stress is removed, but medical days bring it back into focus. And it’s not just people who live in stress. I observe the same thing when I watch birds or squirrels or dogs, too, for that matter. Always alert, always awaiting the next damned thing—or powerfully drawn to the next something desirable. And, when stress disappears, going to sleep. Dogs are very good at that. They belong to the leisure class...