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I personally gravitate towards odd ducks like Alan, so I might have struck up a weekly email correspondence, if only to gain a sense for what makes him tick. I
by vinceguidry 11y ago
I personally gravitate towards odd ducks like Alan, so I might have struck up a weekly email correspondence, if only to gain a sense for what makes him tick. I would have challenged him on a few points of his Shakespearean criticism and humored him so he didn't have to feel so lonely.
After some back and forth on that I would have started asking him more about his life. I'd gently guide him towards courses of action that would naturally guide towards better health and success, like exercising, talking to real people, anything but whatever it is he does for 100+ hours every week.
I'd keep it to 30 minutes a week to put a cap on it so he doesn't start running my life. But you'd be amazed at what you can do for someone just with that small amount of time.
- the_cat_kittles 11y agototally agree, since i have been the beneficiary of exactly what you've described. well, i guess you are cool. :)
- petemc_ 11y agoIt's easy enough to find Alan's email address if this is really how you feel.
- vinceguidry 11y agoI gravitate towards them if they're around, I don't seek them out. Also, there's a reason Alan reached out to the professor, it's unlikely he would be as receptive to me reaching out to him.
- praptak 11y ago> it's unlikely he would be as receptive to me reaching out to him. On the contrary, it is very likely. His site encourages readers to contact him.
- crgabrieljr 11y agoThanks for that. I'm fairly certain I've received benefit from folks who took the time to do what you describe when it would have been so much easier to turn away.
- more_corn 11y agoSounds like a plan. Get to work ;- )