Marcus had a habit of stepping back in his mind, picturing his life from high above, the cities, the crowds, the long stretch of time before and after him. From up there, the thing that felt enormous this morning shrinks to its real size. This isn't about feeling small in a crushing way. It's a relief. Your problem is real, but it isn't the whole sky. Other people have stood where you stand and come through it. The world is wide and old, and you are part of it. Held in that bigger frame, today's trouble loosens its grip just enough for you to breathe.

Inspired by the old idea of the view from above. Written by Ugo Charles.