Exploring one of life's most valuable gifts
A former schoolmate of mine this week sent a few of us who grew up together a relic from our past. He had unearthed an intact copy of our junior high newspaper in his dad's basement. After scanning the black-and-white, primitive-looking pages, he contacted us through a Facebook group message with the PDF attached. He... Continue Reading →
Most people crave the feeling of belonging. A desire to create community and coalesce around a shared purpose is what has led to the lasting success of many community, university, and social organizations. Growing up, we find community in the classroom, experience shared victories on sports teams, and discover common interests in clubs. Then we... Continue Reading →
This week I unexpectedly attended two funerals. The first was for the 88-year-old father of a close college friend. Her father was a very successful businessman, who had found time to call his daughter daily. She will certainly miss him dearly. The second funeral was for the 23-year-old daughter of a local friend. When illness... Continue Reading →
In our daily lives, we often interact with people in a service capacity – baristas, hair stylists, receptionists, or therapists – to name a few. We might not think much of these interactions at the start, but over time they can blossom into meaningful relationships. Friendly interactions with those in service roles are loose connections... Continue Reading →
Even when you're relocating for the best of reasons—such as accepting a new job or moving into a dream house—it can feel extremely isolating. Leaving established friends and neighbors behind and building new routines in an unfamiliar place can feel insurmountable in the beginning. But, with a little patience, persistence and strategic planning, you are... Continue Reading →
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of suicide risk and promoting resources for prevention. According to the CDC, “suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States,” and results in “one death every 11 minutes.” It is an overwhelming statistic, and suicide can seemingly occur... Continue Reading →
Every so often I get together with a group of 10 or so local friends for a night out. By the time we pick a date and a restaurant that everyone can agree on, numerous texts have flown back and forth. With the many logistics to sort through, we sometimes feel more annoyed than excited... Continue Reading →
Today marks the passing of 23 years since the vile and senseless terrorist attacks that resulted in the murder of nearly 3,000 innocent souls and exponentially more lives that were altered forever that day. We will never forget the victims and their loved ones who continue to cope with their losses. Of joys departed, not... Continue Reading →
Fall is a magical season of vibrant colors, crisp air, and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories with friends. As much as I love fall, between the back-to-school madness and a shift into high gear at work when summer ends, Labor Day can sometimes feel like stepping on a gas pedal that won't let... Continue Reading →
Labor Day is a holiday honoring the sacrifices of American workers. Its timing as the first Monday in September also signifies the unofficial end of the summer season. Here in New England, the air is already starting to feel crisp in the evenings. Before we know it, the scent of pumpkin spice lattes will be... Continue Reading →
Language of Friendship 