I have spent my entire life practicing independence.   From my earliest memory at age five up to action taken earlier today, January 22, 2026.  There is a sentiment common in the desert, “Never less alone than when alone.”  If you’ve never known it, you don’t understand it.  I understand it.  Lala Abaddon understands it.  Find Stephen Michael Simon’s excellent documentary film about Lala that appears in the New Yorker magazine newsletter dated January 21, 2026,  and you have her fascinating story.  [Photo Max Vollmer, Click on image to enlarge]