I opened my eyes to a new day. Electric Light Orchestra's "Mr. Blue Sky" played on my phone at full volume to wake me up. I didn't want to get up. I only got four hours of sleep the night before because my boss hadn't bothered showing up for the day so I had to stay late.

As soon as the guitar kicked in, my German Sheppard woke up too. Her deep barks now filled the room, ensuring that I would now get up-as if I had any other option to begin with.

I let the song continue to play on my phone. I ...