Compassion in Difficult Times

These are times of stress, strain and division in our country and the world.  It is easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of angry words, acts of hatred and violence and feel a sense of powerlessness about it all. It is vital to remember that despite the fear and...

Are You Living Your Values?

I attended a workshop for those challenged by their circumstances, health, and past traumas. One of the important “take aways” for me was  defining my values and how much I am living them in my daily life. So what are VALUES? Values are NOT goals. Goals are specific...

Find Your Song

I just heard about a study of the effects of music on surgery patients. Patients who listened to music of their choice either before, during or after surgery reported feeling less pain and needed less pain medication. Listening to music can stimulate the release of...

Finding Refuge

When we struggle with the ever changing demands of life, we all need a “safe place” to retreat to- either physically or in our mind’s eye. This refuge can be seen as an escape, although it does not have to be viewed as avoiding what we need to do or achieve. It can be...

A Quote to Ponder…

This is a well known quote by Rabbi Hillel (110BCE- 10AD) a famous Jewish figure and religious leader. These words challenge us when we must decide what is the “right” thing to do or say. Do you ask for what you want? Should you do that or not? If you do, will you be...