The only memory I have is that I got fired from work last night. I worked night shift at this company for almost a year. After my exit clearance, I went straight home. And for the first time, I went to bed without bothering to change my clothes or shower. I checked my phone. It’s 12:43 AM. I stared at the ceiling, worried and unsure how to process my devastating situation. Barely a month before my birthday, I’m unemployed. Is the term NEET even acceptable if you’re almost 42? I must have fallen asleep (or maybe I’m still deep asleep, and I'm having a nightmare!). Upon waking up, I saw nothing but stark darkness except for the suspiciously illuminated flights of stairs that receded into the distance. Beyond the surface bathed in dim light is definitely a gaping, stygian void. But which direction should I take?

Should I go up?

Or should I go down?