I’ve organized my desk! Well, technically, that’s not true. I haven’t organized it. Yet.
However, my friend Emma has organized her desk, and is delighted with the result. She can now find her stamps, labels, scissors, stapler and that hole-punch gadget. Out of chaos comes order! Why would Emma’s desk-cleaning activity matter to me? Continue reading
When do we make new friends? In childhood perhaps, when everyone is new to us. But really, we can create opportunities to meet new people throughout our lives. When we do, and we’re in the “getting acquainted” stage, we’ll probably spend some time talking about ourselves.
For some, discussing their lives requires that they emphasize the tough parts. That is, they downplay the good and concentrate on the hardships, struggles, unfairnesses, and so on.
That mindset is understandable. One wouldn’t want to portray life as too easy or too good. It may even seem wrong to you to appear to be satisfied when there’s so much suffering and misery in the world. Continue reading
Allen’s story is one that’s experienced in many families. His mother isn’t doing well. His dad is terrified by the inevitable changes that are coming. Allen has moved so he can be with his parents and take care of the ongoing and upcoming challenges. His wife can’t join him now, so the situation is not only emotionally draining but also logistically difficult.
While the details will vary, I suspect that you could tell a similar story, whether it’s about yourself or someone you know. Continue reading
If you are fortunate, on a clear night you see a vast expanse of blackness interrupted by tiny points of light. Even if you’re not in a place where you can see stars, you know how one tiny point of light in a dark room draws your eye. A candle, a flashlight, any source of light makes a difference.
At times, it can seem like we are overwhelmed by darkness. It’s especially difficult for those who are anxious, frustrated, or resentful at feeling controlled. It’s hard if you can’t find a way out; a way to get control over your life.
The tiny point of light is a reminder that even the smallest of bright spots breaks up the darkness. Continue reading
Sarah has been invited to a party hosted by a well-to-do acquaintance. The invitation was so astonishing that she didn’t have time to think of an excuse to decline. Now she feels stuck and anxious. She won’t know anyone, but she’s sure they are wealthy and probably snobs. Her imagination has been working over-time, picturing scenarios that end in her humiliation.
Sarah reached out to Anna for commiseration and comfort. “Why did I ever let myself get sucked in to this? It will be awful. How can I get out of it?” Continue reading
What comes to your mind when you hear the words, “leaving a legacy”? Legacy is often interpreted as a monetary gift, but for Stephen Covey, the concept of legacy is broader than money.
Covey, famous for “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” later wrote “The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness.” Here, he discusses four universal human needs: living, loving, learning and leaving a legacy. Continue reading
