Last week was Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Memorial Day, a day for remembrance and reflection, a day to listen to testimonials from survivors and heroes, a day to be grateful for the many blessings in our lives. The next day I also spoke at my aunt's funeral where I celebrated the blessing of having had Aunt Bea in my life. Like Steven Spielberg's USC Shoah Foundation, which videotapes and preserves the memories of Holocaust survivors and witnesses, we owe it to ourselves and future generations to … [Read more...]
Skip the Chocolates: Take the Relationship Quiz
February 14, 2014 By
Valentine’s Day, February 14 has arrived. Are you prepared to celebrate with chocolate and flowers? Or, maybe you’re heading out for a “special” dinner and movie? Dating or married, the pressure is often on to impress. Cupid may or may not strike, but you sure work hard to please your partner on Valentine’s Day. Ironically, the holiday originated in Roman times when the Emperor forbid single men from marrying in order to make what he believed were better soldiers. Not until the 15th century … [Read more...]
Words are Just the Beginning
February 2, 2014 By
In recent months, prominent public figures, past and present, have been in the news for very different reasons. We mourned the loss of Nelson Mandela, honored the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., and questioned the integrity of Governor Christie. All of these men, known as great speakers, have used their words to motivate audiences. Their words, however, are just the beginning as their actions determine their place in history. Dr. King and Mandela have changed many hearts and minds with their … [Read more...]
Practical Tips for Beating Winter Depression
January 6, 2014 By
New Jersey’s winter weather may have us in its grips and, for some people, the darker days hold on strong with symptoms of depression. Diagnosed by clinical psychologists and psychiatrists as Major Depressive Disorder with seasonal pattern, this form of depression is often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The usual characteristics of SAD include depression, social withdrawal, lethargy, hopelessness, and lack of interest in normal activities. You may also experience difficulty … [Read more...]
Inspiration: Overcoming Anxiety
December 20, 2013 By
Following a talk I presented on anxiety on November 14, 2013 for friends of the Rumson-Fair Haven Friends of Different Learners, a woman shared her inspiring story with me about how she overcame a lifetime of anxiety. I believe we can all relate in some way to her struggle to overcome fear. As we approach the New Year and we think about resolutions, I hope this story will encourage you to think about the things you can do to live a happy, healthy and more productive 2014. Anxiety, whether … [Read more...]