This draft story explores that theme through a modern lens, reflecting his characteristic blend of humor, bluntness, and deep compassion.

His hand trembled. To offer it was to break the code of the "healthy." It was to admit that he recognized her sorrow because he carried his own. He felt the phantom bell ringing again: Stay back. Keep the mask on.

: How we use status and technology to hide our spiritual poverty.

Marek leaned forward. He didn't say anything profound. He didn't offer a sermon. He simply held out the tissue.