My husband and I have reflected several times over the last few weeks about how the COVID-19 pandemic has placed a magnifying glass over numerous issues we have in our society. The pandemic hasn’t caused these issues, but it certainly has highlighted them. Among these issues is the way Americans perceive and treat our elderly. COVID-19 … [Read more...] about Why Do Americans Place So Little Value on Older Adults?
Reflecting on Life
The Most Wonderful Things About Spring
We’ve had such a mild winter around here that I’m not particularly eager for spring’s arrival. Nevertheless, it’s about to begin. Like each of the other seasons, there are a number of unique things about spring that make it special. I’m going to enjoy these things, even if I feel unprepared for the warmer weather. The best things about … [Read more...] about The Most Wonderful Things About Spring
Why Do the Deaths of Public Figures Touch Us Deeply?
A few weeks ago my husband and I were watching the news. One of the main stories was the death of Kobe Bryant. As we watched video of fans placing flowers, stuffed animals, balloons, etc. at makeshift memorials for the famous basketball player, my husband asked me a really interesting question. He asked why people were so affected by his … [Read more...] about Why Do the Deaths of Public Figures Touch Us Deeply?
2019 Year in Review
I often hear folks say that time passes more quickly as they get older. I’m convinced this is true! It feels to me that every year flies by more quickly than the last. Somehow we’re at the end of 2019! I’m taking a few minutes to reflect on this past year. Winter As happens pretty much every year, I started the New Year with many … [Read more...] about 2019 Year in Review
The Most Wonderful Things About Winter
As always seems to be the case, fall sped by so quickly that it is hard to believe we accomplished as much as we did during the last few months. Now we’re about to welcome winter. My 5-year-old keeps asking each family member to identify his or her favorite season. Though I have told her that fall is my favorite, I’ve also reminded her … [Read more...] about The Most Wonderful Things About Winter
8 Alternatives to New Year’s Resolutions
Since the very first year we were married, my husband and I have set aside time to set goals before the start of each New Year. This has worked well for us in general, but it has become difficult to find time for this—and we’ve had a more difficult time achieving our goals—as our family has grown. In an attempt to make sure we … [Read more...] about 8 Alternatives to New Year’s Resolutions
Should We Celebrate The Thanksgiving Holiday?
When I was a young child, my teachers taught me a whitewashed version of the “first Thanksgiving.” We learned about a harmonious celebration between the Pilgrims and “Indians.” I remember one year we even dressed up as Pilgrims and Indians to reenact the first Thanksgiving feast. Thankfully, most Americans are now aware that this … [Read more...] about Should We Celebrate The Thanksgiving Holiday?
How Gratitude Improves Our Lives
November is a month during which psychology experts and laypeople alike laud the benefits of gratitude. They say that gratitude benefits our mental and physical health (improved sleep, decreased pain, fewer illnesses, etc.). Numerous researchers have identified these benefits in the studies they’ve conducted on gratitude. I’m super … [Read more...] about How Gratitude Improves Our Lives
