In the sprawling office of my wooded estate, I sat before my sleek, high-tech computer setup, the large windows behind me offering a view of the dense forest that surrounded the property. The tranquility of the scene was a stark contrast to the flurry of activity that usually filled my days. This evening, however, was dedicated to a Zoom call with my parents, a ritual that, despite my hectic schedule, I never missed.

On the screen, Mom and Dad's familiar faces appeared, their ...