Valentine’s Day Attitude Adjustment
As Valentine’s Day approaches, many people start to feel pressured or anxious. Those in couples often resent the huge price mark-ups and the imperative to do something romantic whether they’re in the mood or not. Single people often feel lonely and depressed, either rushing to make plans or giving excuses of why they don’t really care […]
Tribes and Tribulations
As I sat watching the victory parade for the San Francisco Giants, it hit me strongly how tribal we still are. Today, our tribes may be those with the same skin color, religion, economic level, or favorite sports team, but we still perpetuate the age-old mentality of “it’s my people versus yours.” We want to […]
Marble and Mantras: Lessons from Mexico
Last month, I lived in Mexico. The last time I visited Central America, I went as a backpacker, staying in barebones hostels and interacting with low-income, indigenous families. This time, I lived with an upper class, Spanish-descent family, studied at a private language school, and taught at a well-funded university. Wanting to stay in […]
“After You, You Insist”
A few weeks ago, my friend and I drove our cars to a mall so we could shop together before heading our separate ways. As soon as we arrived to the parking lot, she accelerated past me to grab the closest parking spot. Literally squealing her wheels to make sure she got the best space, she […]
Pathways to Intimacy
Only a few days after New Year’s, stores are already displaying gifts for Valentine’s Day. Meanwhile, several people are still “recovering” from the holidays, whether spent with loved ones or alone. Perhaps that’s why I’m having so many conversations lately about intimacy. Most of the discussions have centered on the best way to connect with others. […]
Ready for Love
A few weeks ago, I got a fabulous invitation to spend the winter holidays in Sicily with an Italian hottie I met there last fall. As I was mulling over his offer, I got a very direct gut answer: “No. It’s time to meet the One.” Although it’s tempting to run off to Italy and […]
