Laughter is My Hero
My favorite scene in “Mary Poppins” involves the man who loves to laugh so much he floats to the ceiling. Then the children catch the levity and join him there. Even as a kid, I wanted to be on that ceiling….
The Power of Yearning and Earning
I wanted a purse that I had found in a grocery store more than anything, but my mom refused purchase. She said she could not spend six dollars on a plastic purse when she had groceries to buy. I was…
The 5 Golden Rules of Teaching
Note: Today’s guest blogger is Janet Newcomb, a good friend and teacher. She shared a story with me about teaching, and I asked her to write it down so I could share it with you. Thank you, Janet! Anyone who…
What Raccoons Know About Motivation
I am an optimist. I believe that we are inherently good, and that love will win. I believe that most people want to help, and that McDonald’s didn’t intend to gradually kill us with their french fries. But I’m not particularly peaceful…
Yes, Emotions Can Make or Break Your Body
I stood in front of the mirror, looked at my face and quietly muttered, “I’m mel-l-l-lting!” in the voice of the Wicked Witch of the West. Jowls hung where there used to be a strong jaw, and my eyes were…
Eeyore, Aliens, and How To Keep Your Tale On
I sat in the chair listening to a woman explain why and how aliens were going to melt the earth in September. Yes, this September. For two hours, I heard about the end of the world and how religion controls people…
Love Is a Four Letter Word
We talk about love – the miracle of it, the power of it, and the light that it brings to the world. But love can also bring frustration, irritation, and an incredible desire to punch somebody out. Passion can take a…
The Warrior Within
We are stronger than we think we are. Remember the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz? He is my favorite character in the movie, not because he is frightened, but because he acknowledges that he is frightened. I love the way he…
Four Ways to Plug into the Right Socket
Have you ever inhaled multiple cups of Starbucks coffee just to feel energized, and nothing happens? Instead of being pumped up, you’re pooped out. You’re irritated or frustrated or depressed and you don’t know why. Sometimes caffeine is neither the problem…
The Cable Guy – Or Was He?
My cable was down at work, which in a consulting environment driven by deadlines with clients can be a disaster. My coworker called the cable company and left a message around 11:30 a.m. After she hung up the phone, I told…