I’ve thought a lot lately about the power of personal writing. “Anyone can have a blog and just write about themselves,” some people have recently told me, as though blogging about oneself is not a worthwhile pursuit. The beauty of personal writing, though, is that it can be both personal and universal at the sameContinue reading “Personal Writing That Helps Oneself, and Others”
Tag Archives: Personal writing
Falling Asleep in the Boston Public Library
The snoring was loud enough to turn heads. On the otherwise quiet second floor of the Boston Public Library, a man sat with his head titled backward, his arms outstretched, his mouth wide open. I peered at him over the cover of Joan Didion’s “Democracy” and wondered what had made him so tired. Was itContinue reading “Falling Asleep in the Boston Public Library”
Much to Be Grateful for This Holiday Season
I’m at home now, listening to the snow melt into the wee hours of Christmas day. My neighbors’ lights are turned off, and the streets are silent. No cars are rushing by, no sirens echo in the distance. It’s a perfect night to curl under the covers with a warm fleece blanket and something cuddlyContinue reading “Much to Be Grateful for This Holiday Season”
Helping to Put Together Poynter’s Book of Election Front Pages
Recently, I helped put together The Poynter Institute’s new election front page book, which features 75 newspaper front pages from around the world. My editor, Julie Moos, thought of the idea for the book and led the institute’s efforts in putting it together in just two weeks. The goal was to have it published inContinue reading “Helping to Put Together Poynter’s Book of Election Front Pages”
Combating Loneliness and Its Myths
I was surprised to open my mailbox Tuesday night and see a New York Magazine cover story with the headline: “The Loneliness Myth.” The word “loneliness” stuck out at me because it’s a word that I’m forever trying to understand. New York Magazine provides some background on the history of loneliness, saying that it “evolvedContinue reading “Combating Loneliness and Its Myths”
Listening to Grandma’s Stories About the ‘Olden Days’
My grandma, who I unabashedly refer to as “gramz,” is perhaps one of the best listeners I know. I call her a couple of times a week when in need of advice, a pick-me-up or a good laugh. Regardless of what she’s doing, she sets aside time for me and makes me feel as thoughContinue reading “Listening to Grandma’s Stories About the ‘Olden Days’”
Starting to Resume a Regular Schedule
My new apartment is starting to feel more like a home. I have dressers, a dining room table, a TV stand (no TV yet), and a bed. A queen-size bed, no less. I’ve always had a twin-size bed, so the extra space makes me feel as though I’m swimming in sheets at night. Now thatContinue reading “Starting to Resume a Regular Schedule”
Road Trip Back to Florida Begins
Man, I’m going to miss this place. Just as I was starting to feel settled and get closer to the people I’ve met here, it’s time for me to leave. That always seems to be the case. I’ve said a lot of hellos and goodbyes throughout the past few years when moving from Massachusetts toContinue reading “Road Trip Back to Florida Begins”
Much to Be Lost, and Gained, During Times of Uncertainty
There are times when life seems defined by uncertainty. Will my house sell in this market? When can I get that raise I was promised? Will I have a job tomorrow? These questions become all the more prevalent during tough economic times, when financial instability creates worry, angst and a “Why this, why me?” mentality.Continue reading “Much to Be Lost, and Gained, During Times of Uncertainty”
Spotting Jason Castro and Terrell Owens
While shopping this weekend at the Buffalo Exchange, a thrift store in Dallas, I spotted “American Idol” contestant Jason Castro. No one seemed to recognize him, or they just didn’t care to approach him. I couldn’t remember his full name, but I walked up to him nonetheless. “Hi! You were on ‘American Idol,’ right?” “Yep,Continue reading “Spotting Jason Castro and Terrell Owens”
Word on the Street 