Relationships

April 26, 2025

What Truly Matters in the End

I recently attended the funeral of a remarkable woman who lived for nearly a century. While her eulogy included impressive accomplishments—she was intelligent, athletic, adventurous, and a leader who fought for equality—what struck me most deeply was how her daughters spoke about her personal qualities. This extraordinary woman built her […]
December 16, 2024

Take Your Time

Take Your Time When I hear the phrase “take your time,” I often think about slowing down, paying attention, and resisting the urge to rush. Recently, while talking to a friend I thought of this phrase with an added dimension. My friend had recently left a highly demanding, stressful job […]
October 23, 2024

Embracing Change: Reflections on Relationships Over Four Decades

Embracing Change: Reflections on Relationships Over Four Decades 40 years ago, I wrote my first book, SISTERS: A Practical and Helpful Exploration of the Intimate and Complex Bond Between Female Siblings. It was the outgrowth of my dissertation research and seminars conducted with women all over the country about their […]
September 27, 2024

A Personal Reflection on News Consumption and Social Division

A Personal Reflection on News Consumption and Social Division This morning, I woke up dizzy. Dizzy as in the room was spinning and I could not get out of bed. My tummy was upset, and I felt nauseous. First thought—Was this food poisoning? With eyes closed, I asked Siri to […]
September 4, 2024

How to Start a Difficult Conversation: Offering Support with Empathy

How to Start a Difficult Conversation: Offering Support with Empathy There are times when a friend or loved one is going through difficulties that we want to reach out and show we care. Finding the right words can feel overwhelming. I have written about this before. Lately, I have heard […]
April 23, 2024

Embracing Kindness in a World of Uncertainty: Reflections from a Heartfelt Gathering

As many of you know, a few years ago Amanda Salzhauer and I co-authored THE KINDNESS ADVANTAGE. We were privileged to meet people from all over the country as we discussed how children can embody kindness considering the challenges they experience in the world. Much of our emphasis is what […]
February 26, 2024

Not Sharing Concerns with Loved Ones for Fear of Being Shut Out

I have received many inquiries from people in different stages of their lives who have one thing in common. Each is hesitant to share concerns with loved ones for fear of being shut out. They describe feeling as if they “walk on eggshells”. They are afraid of risking asking personal […]
November 1, 2023

Companions in Golden Years: The Heartfelt Bond Between Our Older Selves and Pets

I was talking with a friend who has had dogs her whole life. She adores them and could have never imagined being without one. Until now. She needs to “put her beloved dog down” which, for those of you who are unfamiliar with the term, means euthanasia. If you have […]
August 5, 2023

Thoughts on Traveling in the Age of Cell Phones

Where would we be without our cell phones? For some, it’s feeling LOST. For others, it’s feeling FOUND. And for many, a bit of both, experiencing a mix of disorientation, disruption, relief, and relaxation, each with their own unique descriptions. Recently, I traveled outside of the US, and to my […]