sleep
Dear mom,
I've had you and dad on my mind quite often as of late. I'm still going through hard times and I miss you both. I want to write more letters this upcoming autumn.
The subject of mottos came up and I was reminded of yours due to the impact it held.
Das Leben ist kurz, das Leben ist schön, und traurig auch gelegentlich. Schlaf ist einfach die Schüchternheit des Todes. Das Leben ist kurz, schlaf es aus.
Sleep it off.. Admittedly at first I didn't understand what this meant. I've been alone with my thoughts more recently due to the nature of my work, so I spent some time contemplating it.
I think.. I understand now. I understand what you were going through.
Sleep is death being shy... Sleeping means not existing in the current world, if temporarily. I could simply.. forget. My current objectives, my life, even my name. I could forget it all and just watch the world of No Man's Land burn, again and again.
It's oddly peaceful, being forgotten. Although I have to wonder, did that ever scare you personally? Not that it matters much, I'll never forget you, unless I develop severe Alzheimer's from lack of sleep..
Also if it's not too much trouble.. Could you give me a sign?
From your beloved son