How do we get through this? Zelda* believed in the healing power of laughter. But I’m also sure she would have told us: Look for the good. “It’s always there, honey — something.” She reminded me often and had lots of examples: “When I spoke to my son-in-law after his stroke, and he said, ‘Mom, […]
Make America Capable Again
When my youngest grandson was 3, he moved a chair to the sink, climbed up, and started washing his dish. He did it mindfully, not like some kid splashing for the fun of it. Watching him, I remarked at how “capable” he was. I explained that being capable meant he could handle stuff. Someone […]
On the Death of an Ex: Grief Isn’t Just “for” the Kids
This post was inspired by a conversation with the woman I call my “wife-in-law.” She is married to my ex-husband. I thank her for her first read of this piece and for allowing me to share her story beyond the boundaries of our family. My wife-in-law’s ex-husband died last week. They were married […]
How To Not Write 2020: Still Battling Procrastination
I have been writing and revising “How To Not Write” since 1977, the year the late T. George Harris took a chance on me. Founder of Psychology Today and American Health, T. George was then at New York magazine. I worked in educational publishing (as editor and author). He patiently — and, in retrospect, […]
The Suprising Secret of Good Geezerhood
This just in…. forget what the AARP and the Harvard Health Newsletter tell you. Forget doing crossword puzzles or learning a foreign language. Instead, keep doing what you’ve always done. I learned this from my neighbor and friend, Marge. She’s 101½ and lives alone. How does she manage? “I keep breathing.” But it’s more than […]