Ted Chiang - The Lifecycle of Software Objects
Though this book bears a title reminiscent of a technical computer manual, it is actually a warm yet chilling sci-fi novel exploring the relationship between adorable Digiants (virtual world pets) and humans.
Watching them persist in their efforts to sustain the relationship, hindered and shaken by various forces yet refusing to let go, made me recall my own past instances of easily abandoning relationships—and I felt ashamed. But another thought quickly followed. If you don't let go of the ties of a relationship, doesn't that mean you also can't meet new ones? The Digi-Pet was like that too. Unable to transplant into a new world, it had to send all its old friends away and struggle alone, until finally, through the sacrifice of Derek's Digi-Pet Marco, it could continue its encounter with the new world. I'm not sure. About what it means to keep a relationship going.
I've lived, and continue to live, by severing many relationships and meeting new ones. It might be my tendency to tire easily and then reignite passion, but perhaps it's also my flaw.
There's only one way to turn this flaw into a strength. To give my all in every moment of every relationship. To never speak falsely. To always look honestly into my own heart. It's the hardest thing. Hiding is actually the easiest.
Because once you hide it, you don't have to take responsibility or think about any consequences.
Still, I will reveal myself honestly in every moment and give my all to that relationship, however brief it may be. And that moment of mine, and that moment of theirs, will remain a happy memory. If that's the case, then that's good enough.
Because I lived happily, feeling the moment!