Exploring one of life's most valuable gifts
I had been living in Glenview, IL, for more than a decade when I began noticing a group of about 6-8 men, likely retirees, gathering together outside my local Starbucks every morning. Even during the pandemic, when almost all group activities had either ground to a halt or shifted to zoom, these guys were sitting... Continue Reading →
You don't have be a big fan of Seinfeld to get a kick out of the show's perspective on American life in NYC, even--or especially--if you disagree with it. One of the most memorable Seinfeld episodes for me aired during the seventh season, when George was engaged to Susan. In the episode, Elaine realizes she... Continue Reading →
My son received some nice gifts from extended family and friends when he graduated high school last spring, and he was genuinely grateful for them. I was curious whether he'd take the initiative to write thank-you notes to the gift-givers. Research shows that saying thank you is important not only for the person who hears... Continue Reading →
For nearly three years, I have been self-employed and working 100% remotely, an arrangement largely driven by the pandemic. However, on Thursday I started a new job and did something that felt foreign in many ways; I went to the office. My new role is hybrid, so I’ll be onsite a couple of times a... Continue Reading →
American politics is extremely divisive these days, and the ticking up of tensions on all sides of the political spectrum has led to an alarming increase in senseless and devastating violence against historically marginalized groups in the United States. The need for allies has never been stronger. With the approaching Rosh Hashanah holiday this week,... Continue Reading →
Guest post alert: Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last week, we dedicate this post to her memory. She led a truly extraordinary life. This week, my mom, Susan Mason, shares a treasured memory of being on an outing with dear friends and running into Queen Elizabeth in my hometown of Lexington, Ky. As... Continue Reading →
The strongest people are those who win battles we know nothing about. Unknown Leslie Weirich's son Austin had so much going for him. He was a standout student, athlete, and leader in high school and then went on to play football at Wabash College. In college he received an academic scholarship, managing to balance football... Continue Reading →
In addition to being a celebration in honor of America's workers, Labor Day has also come to symbolize the unofficial last weekend of summer. The Language of Friendship wishes you a long weekend full of relaxation and quality time with friends. If you're looking for activities, we have some suggestions for enjoying meaningful late-summer moments... Continue Reading →
I met my friend Patrick Riccards in 2006 when we were both working for Lipman Hearne, a boutique marketing firm serving mission-driven organizations. We had different areas of expertise, yet collaborated on a handful of client accounts. I've cultivated many workplace friendships over the years, each an opportunity to learn and grow. Patrick approached challenges... Continue Reading →
This summer has felt a little less relaxing than most for me, and I don't think I'm alone in that feeling. After a few years of a slower pace and minimal crowds because of the pandemic, The Washington Post has called this summer “the busiest travel season in a generation." It's been great to see... Continue Reading →
Language of Friendship 