Inspiration

A few years ago, my writing partner, Lillie Evans, and I were notified that our full-length play script, Grandmothers, Incorporated won a playwriting competition. Our work was selected from over 600 submissions from 33 countries. Nobody could tell us that we weren’t hot stuff. We were ecstatic, on top of the world. We were also reluctant…

Personal growth is great and is something that I want to continue doing for the rest of my life. I mean, who wants to become stagnant and stop growing? Have you heard the saying, ‘use it or lose it’? Well, that isn’t just geared towards our muscles; it’s also true of our wonderful brains. Just like our physical muscles, our mindset requires conscious practice to maintain and grow…

I want to ask you something that might be a little uncomfortable. When did you last ask yourself what you actually want? Not what your children need. Not what your grandchildren would enjoy. Not what would make the holidays easier or the family gathering run more smoothly or the situation with your adult…

Every morning, before I get out of bed and while I do my hip flexor stretches, I think about my day. It helps me focus on what I have to look forward to. Maybe it’s lunch with a friend, a different walking route to try, or even a new episode of a favourite series. I do this every morning. It helps me get up with a smile. I feel positive about the day ahead, even when there is nothing…

You applaud your friend Mary Jane’s exuberance as she describes her delight with her new-found hobby, tap-dancing. OK, she’ll never be Fred Astaire, but she’s thrilled at what she and her fellow tap students, not a one under 60, are accomplishing. You listen appreciatively as your sister-in-law waxes enthusiastic over the writing class she’s joined. How wonderful…

Have you ever noticed that as we get older, we tend to spend more time talking about what we’re losing instead of what we are gaining? The conversation often centers on wrinkles, retirement, slowing down, or staying relevant in a rapidly changing world. Everywhere we look, we’re encouraged to maintain our youth, preserve…

I’ve always been quite quick and efficient. Quick to understand. Quick to act. Quick to respond. Then the “slow life” hit me full force on a beautiful fall day not too long ago. Not in the form of an inspiring book or a yoga retreat in India, but in the form of Fuji, a little Scottish Straight cat who’s now three years old. Since I didn’t want her wandering around…

Poor Judgment’s been slandered, accused and maligned, As if using good sense were a terrible crime. “Don’t judge!” say some people. “Be spiritual instead!” Yet without a bit of judgment, we’d all bump our heads. We’d wander through life like a cart with no wheel, Or smile at a snake while ignoring how we feel…

Years ago, before the internet settled household arguments in seconds, my then-husband and I had an ongoing disagreement about the lyrics to a song. The song was “Drift Away” by Dobie Gray. I insisted the lyric was, “Give me the beat boys and free my soul.” He insisted it was, “Give me the Beach Boys and free my soul.”

Yesterday was an eye-opener for me. I learned something new, and at 72, that’s something. I was reminded of the many small opportunities for connection that exist in everyday life, and how easy they are to overlook. When I’m out and about, I try to smile, give people the benefit of the doubt, and not take things personally…