The Collective Affliction of Looking Good (image: Alex Baker photo) We live in a culture in which looking good is of utmost importance. A culture where we are encouraged to avoid and anesthetize our suffering. We are conditioned to lie to ourselves and others about the truth of our experience, to wear a mask of invulnerability. How refreshing it is when we meet someone who does not hide behind this facade. What a relief to encounter someone who acknowledges and embraces their