Ah, I think most unattainable of all is the simple goal of being “comfortable in your own skin.” That’s the elusive quality everybody wants in a friend or lover. I’ve met some people who actually do seem comfortable with who they are. But personally, my skin itches and sunburns at the drop of a T-shirt. Great post, food for thought. Please pass the cake. Most profound is the title question, “What did you give up?” Sometimes we can take what we want, but we always have to be willing to pay the price.

— John Hayden