지금 여기의 과정에 온전히 헌신하는 사람 [.txt]

The subject of this piece is a woman named Alia, who has been fully committed to her daily routine, despite suffering from declining vision and back and hip pain. As her daughter often chides her for her lack of skill, Alia remains determined, finding comfort in the process rather than the result. It is this deep appreciation for the journey that sets her apart from those who are more focused on outcomes.

Alia's dedication to her work, such as sketching and caring for plants, reflects a growing appreciation for being fully present in the moment. This mindset becomes increasingly important as one ages, providing a sense of meaning and resilience in the face of hardship. The story of Alia's unwavering commitment to her craft is reminiscent of a character from a novel by Lebanese-American writer Rabiah Alalaemdi titled "The Unnecessary Woman."

Alia, a 72-year-old woman living alone in Beirut, was married off at sixteen and divorced later in life, becoming a recluse. Despite her loneliness, Alia continues to live a solitary life, reading and writing, but has never had the pleasure of seeing her translations published. She considers her translation work as her ultimate dedication, even if it seems futile to others.

For Alia, reading and writing are not just means to escape her mundane life, but also a way to build a strong fortress in the tumultuous sea of loneliness and grief brought about by war and hardship. Through her reading and writing, Alia seeks to connect with the world and understand the emotions of its characters, even if it means venturing outside her comfort zone.

Her actions, though seemingly pointless to others, teach her and others that empathy towards strangers is essential in understanding and alleviating their suffering. Alia's steadfast dedication to her craft, though ultimately unable to save her crumbling fortress, reminds us that even in old age, one can still embrace life's unexpected gifts and continue to grow.