Consequential Conversations Part 2: Silence
Yesterday, in my blog on civility, I mentioned that a silent response to disagreements that arise may be construed as apathy, agreement, or a way to avoid conflict. A silent response that is misinterpreted in this way doesn’t help bring understanding or a resolution to the differences between people.
Consequential Conversations Part 1: Civility
Do you avoid conflict? Do you find it hard to disagree with someone during a meaningful conversation?
Growing Up in Queens
I was born in the 1950’ s and came of age during the social upheaval of the sixties.
A Pilgrimage to the Future
Lately, I’ve been thinking about taking a pilgrimage. Not by walking the Santiago Trail. Not by journeying to a religious site. Not even by going on a solitary meditation retreat. Actually, I’m thinking about taking a pilgrimage to the present moment.
My Dragonfly
What does a dragonfly symbolize? Some say renewal, positive forces, or the power of life. In some cultures, it holds a deep spiritual meaning of wisdom or pointing to a higher self.
The “F” Word
So, call me “a goody two shoes” but fart was a no-no word growing up in our household, or at least I thought so.
Sailing with Aunt Jean
My Aunt Jean was a combination of Auntie Mame and Captain Jack Sparrow. She drank like a sailor but could affect the manners of the well-bred. From 1953 until 1967, Aunt Jean sailed the seas on what was known as America’s ocean liner, The United States.
The Garden
The other morning, I read a meaningful and true reflection on The Divine Garden. It journeyed from the Garden of Eden’s abundance and growth to the Garden of Gethsemane’s surrender, and finally to the Eternal Garden of peace. The meditation included three components of a garden: Order, Beauty, and Life
How Many Summers Do We Have Left?
Lately, I have heard many parents, celebrities, and professionals discuss how they have so little time with their children before they go to college. In a very distraught voice, I overheard a young parent say, "I only have seven more summers with my child before they leave home."
Sailor and the Sea
The sailor had been alone at sea for a long time, but not long before he started talking to the sea. At first, the crashing, bubbling, and salt-scratching his palate of a life raft were nothing but ordinary noises,
The Goldilocks Conundrum
Did Goldilocks strive for just-right perfection or settle for a balanced midpoint given only three choices?
How Do You Choose?
I pull up to the red light and see him standing very close to my car. He's holding a small cardboard sign. His hands and face hold many days of dirt, etched in the wrinkles of his brow and the ridges of his worn-out knuckles.
Our Pets Come with a Price
Have you ever had a pet? Whether adopted, gifted, purchased, or found, our furry friends become a cherished part of the family.
A Small Sea Scallop
On the Sea of Cortez’ wet morning sand
I found a small shell that fit snugly in my hand
Sunday Dinner
“Come over for dinner next Sunday” is the opening line for a cornucopia of entertainment, food, and heart-to-hearts.
Libraries and the Banning of Books
As a child, my parents couldn’t afford to buy my siblings and me books, so we regularly checked out tall stacks at the local library for free. Comfort, information, wonder, freedom, and libraries are all connected in my mind.
Bindings of Life
Why do you love libraries? Why do you love books? I love them because of all the possibilities each book holds within its binding.