Dear James: I Can’t Stop Thinking About Death

Editor’s Note: Is anything ailing, torturing, or nagging at you? Are you beset by existential worries? Every Tuesday, James Parker tackles readers’ questions. Tell him about your lifelong or in-the-moment problems at [email protected].

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Dear James,

For all intents and purposes, at age 47, I’m in the best shape of my life. In June 2022, I entered into a wonderful relationship with my current partner. We’re happy. And yet, I can’t stop thinking about death.

Some context: Before this, I was in a sad, somewhat unhealthy 20-year marriage; my wife had an affair, and I finally decided to leave after several years of sleepless, p...
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