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These days, I spend a lot of time commuting. The traffic is bothersome. I avoid milder versions of road rage. At the same time, my life is busy for various reasons. I want to keep a cool head and a warm heart! One thing I’ve found to help myself, which I think could help others, is listening to ambient music. My radio station subscription has a channel or two. I can use the channel on an app at home, at work or anywhere. The music gives me a feeling of calm amid a busy day. It helps me relax and think. It also can aid in self-reflection and daydreaming.

The great religions of the world and many philosophers share thinking about respect and love. This column discusses the Golden Rule, the law of mercy, the avoidance of scapegoating and the implementation of higher love.

South Korea is currently experiencing the effects of the Baby Boom generation reaching retirement age, leading to a significant increase in the elderly population. They’ve worked their entire lives. Many live alone but bring an authenticity and energy to their lives. Many others suffer and want social and familial support for loneliness, lack of necessities and for eliciting the contributions they still can make. I remember walking through Songpa District and seeing droves of older people manually cutting the grass of Pungnaptoseong. From recycling to gardening to running shops or selling st...

This world glorifies winning, victory, prevailing and success. Many disdain talk of anything but the positive. To discuss losing, suffering defeat, and the lack of success is dour for the pedestrian. “I’m on the side of a winner!”, “I’m a winner,” and “Think like a winner” all intone today’s mantras. It’s fine that positivity means thinking positively. All should take stock of the good things in life, as well as dreams and hopes. This column concerns remaining positive in the face of loss — living beyond loss. Whether the optimists admit it, no life occurs without los...

I’ve followed stories in The Korea Times about Korean culture. Issues such as loneliness and isolation are an increasing problem. There have been tragedies concerning the suicide of famous and non-famous Koreans and how lonely were their lives. I read a column that Koreans prefer to be home alone nowadays instead of enjoying traditional holiday celebrations with family members. In December, another story said there are 540,000 isolated Korean young people (ages 19 to 34). Many retreat to a virtual world. Most have contemplated or attempted suicide.