“It Is What It Is” — But IS It?

First used in sociology, the concept of social construction pertains to the ways social phenomena are created, institutionalized and made into tradition by humans. In more everyday language, we name objects, customs and behaviors based on how we see their functions in...

The Extraordinariness of the Ordinary

“Our culture is quick to dismiss quiet, ordinary, hardworking men and women. In many instances, we equate ordinary with boring or, even more dangerous, ordinary has become synonymous with meaningless.” — Brene Brown, I Thought It Was Just Me (But It...

The Stranger Among Us

Our family is about to wrap up our last college visit this weekend. Our son is polishing his college applications and researching potential scholarship opportunities. For the most part, our venture into the college search has been marked with open communication,...

ADHD — It’s Not Child’s Play

Often first diagnosed in childhood, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that often lasts into adulthood. Symptoms of inattention or restlessness may appear in both kids and adults, but adults with ADHD may exhibit a very different...

Water, Water, Everywhere

On our recent family vacation to the beach, I experienced the intense feelings of relaxation and release that I get every time I’m near the ocean. The waves, the salty air, the damp sand between my toes — I’m never as calm and centered as when I am...

Go Gently

Take the gentle path. — George Herbert   We celebrate achievement. We encourage effort, determination, “giving it the old college try.” We are impressed when someone overcomes adversity, and we appreciate a good...