Hot enough for you? Heat and irritability both spike in the summer months. Tempers rise right along with those thermometer readings. The FBI reports that July and August are the worst months for crime, especially incidents of domestic violence. Why are we more likely to be cross in the summer? Any number of things could be in the mix. Difficulty sleeping. Heat-related disruptions of the … [Read more...]
Being of service in unexpected ways
Marking Memorial Day, we reflect with gratitude on those who have served and protected our country from harm and invasion -- honoring our right to freedom, prosperity and dignity. We might also reflect on the service we are all able to contribute from within our borders each and every day. In little and big ways, being of service can be not only of enormous help for others but also deeply … [Read more...]
The secret words are ‘you time’
Money frees you from doing things you dislike. Since I dislike doing nearly everything, money is handy. -- Groucho Marx Truth is, most of the time we'd rather be doing something other than what we're doing. Work alone eats up a third of weekdays or more. Then there are the chores, errands, little emergencies, social obligations, issues to work through with friends, kids and lovers -- the list … [Read more...]
Choosing ‘good enough’ over perfection
In the 1950s, a wise pediatrician from Great Britain named David Winnicott came up the idea of the "good enough" parent. Having treated children and families for many years, Dr. Winnicott recognized that children do well when a parent does a "good enough" job raising them. What that meant from his perspective was for parents to provide good enough custodian care and good enough emotional … [Read more...]
Spending the holidays with your inner child
Be generous with your inner child this festive season. While many of us experience excitement and joy at this time of year, there are others who struggle to get through the days. With all the emphasis on good tidings and cheer, things can be even more challenging for those in crisis or without loved ones. The adage have yourself a merry little Christmas (or holiday season) suggests a way … [Read more...]