I can’t say that I’m graceful under pressure. I can’t say that I’m grateful for any stress, be it illness or tension or unexpected difficulties. I have to talk myself through them, as in, “Elissa, okay, yes, this awful thing is happening to you right now, but you know what? Maybe it’s not so bad. […]
Why I Write
Have you ever had a disagreement with someone, and in your frustration, you grow increasingly angry and defensive, rather than stopping the escalating terror and asking yourself, “Why am I angry? Perhaps I can use better words to express myself.” I’m not talking about swear words (although with some people, I’m sure this works exceptionally […]
Young at Heart
Liliana and I watched the DVD Young at Heart yesterday morning. I thought she might love the rhythms and people–which she did. So did I. Have you heard of this chorus of men and women (73-year-olds and above) who sings rock songs–tunes by Sonic Youth, Coldplay, The Clash, Flaming Lips? The group originally began in […]
Mary Gauthier
I just discovered Mary Gauthier. A couple of weeks ago, I was driving home from the cities, and this song came on. It made me hold my breath. Yes, I’d have to agree. “Every living thing needs mercy now.”
The Traces We Leave Behind
I’ll tell you what haunts me each day–how to change the world, one day at a time. I’m cognizant of this when I hold Liliana tight, read her a story, make her a healthy snack, write letters, plan a surprise, even when I’m e-mailing. I’m that aware that I’m living each moment as best I […]