How Might We Bring People Closer to the Social Justice Movement?

I’m a Democrat concerned about the future of the Republican Party.A problem that I observe in my own friend-and-colleague-circles is that Democrats can lump Trump-voters into one group. This causes harm.Why? Because Republicans aren’t monolithic. Many that I know are fiscally conservative, but socially moderate, which makes them have qualities and beliefs that even Dems … Continue reading How Might We Bring People Closer to the Social Justice Movement?

Grounding my Gratitude

I appreciate how counting blessings on a regular basis can help us be more at ease and in turn be more generous, patient, and understanding. This is one of the big goals in life, I think, to free up some of the energy we spend on self doubt or rumination so that we have energy … Continue reading Grounding my Gratitude

The Big Picture

I'm trying really hard to count my blessings as we wind down this terrible year. But that exercise feels a little off when there is so much to be sad and angry about. And while I don't want to linger in the sadness, I want to give it the respect and thoughtfulness that it deserves. … Continue reading The Big Picture

What Are You Passionate About?

If you are passionate about something, find a way to work on it. The work can be small as in the amount of time, but make it consistent. Maybe it’s an hour every Thursday morning without fail. Over the course of 6 weeks or so, you will have made progress. WHY work on things you … Continue reading What Are You Passionate About?

Being Right vs Being Effective

With the polarized political environment we are in, there's a lot of advice out there on how to have effective arguments. An effective argument is one in which both parties remain open and not feel shut down. When we talk to each other in a way that allows us to remain open, then there is … Continue reading Being Right vs Being Effective

QUESTIONS for THANKSGIVING 2020

from a walk in our neighborhood, mid-October Thanksgiving looks different this year but for me it still feels like a good time to reflect on what I am thankful for. Below are some questions and prompts that you can think about on your own or you can discuss them with friends & family. I hope … Continue reading QUESTIONS for THANKSGIVING 2020

HOLIDAY GIFTS – WOMEN MAKERS – ITHACA NY

from left to right: Julia E. Dean; FlipBooKit; Robin Tilling For the holidays, I love to buy gifts from makers that I know. Below is a short list products made by women makers. There are some great gifts in here for adults and kids. While I encourage you to check out their work, you might … Continue reading HOLIDAY GIFTS – WOMEN MAKERS – ITHACA NY

UNDERSTANDING POPULISM

Populism - a political approach that strives to appeal to ordinary people who feel that their concerns are disregarded by established elite groups. I don't normally write about politics, but I am very concerned about our recent election. Trump has opened the door to populism and it seems that many in his party are considering … Continue reading UNDERSTANDING POPULISM

Patience

Patience is a skill. It's a handy skill to develop. Patience positions you to see losses as a temporary situation. It positions you to see the big picture and play the long game.

TUNING = STRIVING

For those of us that strive to be better, more empathic, creative, kind, consistent, TUNING is a fun way to think about that striving. TUNING is ongoing, it’s musical, and it’s collaborative. TUNING has three components: Believing, Creating, and Organizing. BELIEVING in ourselves and in others opens our hearts and our minds. It isn’t always … Continue reading TUNING = STRIVING