In "My Year of Meats," Ruth Ozeki reflects on how rare it is for a story to capture significant media attention amidst a constant flow of negative news. Such compelling narratives can briefly stand out, igniting public interest and sparking conversations. However, this fleeting spotlight often fades quickly, subsumed by the ongoing barrage of troubling information that often feels overwhelming and unavoidable.

Ozeki's observation highlights a sense of helplessness many citizens feel in response to the persistent negativity in the news cycle. Despite the occasional sensational stories that emerge, the general trend is a relentless stream of issues that can leave individuals feeling disempowered and disconnected from the possibility of change. This commentary underscores the importance of seeking narratives that inspire and uplift rather than merely contribute to the prevailing gloom.