Well-being

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 […]
February 26, 2025

Navigating Life’s Twists and Turns – From Complaint to Resilience (and Gratitude)

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that things should always go our way. But let’s face it: life is full of unexpected twists and turns. The natural order of things includes a fair (some may think “unfair”) share of challenges and setbacks. The key is how we […]
November 26, 2024

Tis the Season to…focus as we struggle? We can try.

Tis the Season to…focus as we struggle? We can try. I don’t know about you, but many, many years ago I felt pride because I was able to multitask by juggling many things at once. Sometimes it felt like a badge of honor, the more things I did at once […]
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 […]
June 1, 2024

Finding Presence in the Wild: A Journey of Connection and Reflection

Finding Presence in the Wild: A Journey of Connection and Reflection Sometimes, we have a life-altering experience. For me, this happened when I visited South Africa, Zambia, and Botswana. I was far away from daily engagement with news, politics, and my everyday routine. I wasn’t “totally” off the grid because […]
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 […]
April 3, 2024

Compassion in Everyday Moments: Choosing Understanding Over Judgment

“Here is what we seek: a compassion that can stand in awe at what the poor have to carry rather than stand in judgment at how they carry it.” ― Gregory Boyle, Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion Waiting in line at a grocery store a man […]
December 28, 2023

Giving Back – Making a Difference in 2024

As we enter 2024, the world around us continues to evolve, often in ways that challenge our comfort, safety, and understanding. In these moments, it’s natural to focus inward and attempt to safeguard our own well-being as well as that of our family and friends. However, this year I encourage […]
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 […]