What I’ve learned about authoring my life, as well as my books and essays, is that every disappointment, grievance, or mistake feels different after I’ve turned my energies toward teaching, service, or aid of others. My literary disappointments—of which I’ve had plenty—tend to diminish in the face of conscious gratitude and acknowledgement of others’ struggles. Giving back helps us build community together, but it also saves us from blowing our disappointments, losses, and insecurities out of proportion. It reminds us of other people’s generosity, compassion, and grace, which is profoundly hopeful.