Real life. Real stories. Real people.
I've been playing with a “How can I make something out of nothing?” inner dialogue for the past couple of months; diligently training myself to use it every time life would throw a curveball until it evolved into an automatic response or reflex. Hmm, just like the muscle reflex experienced by a basketball player who practices the same shot, day after day, until she and the shot become "one". Here's how it started A friend casually mentioned that he always strives to turn a … [Read more...]
“What’s Your Father’s Name?” Cape Breton custom has roots in the Hebrides
If you spend a little time on Cape Breton Island, chances are you’ll encounter someone in your daily travels being asked the familiar question: “What’s your father’s name?” Yes, it’s quite common. But, have you ever observed that with this gentle inquiry, the asker and everyone around them hold their breath in earnest anticipation; as if the answer carries its weight in tartan and gold? For the people of Cape Breton Island, this age-old interchange is precious. It is a community … [Read more...]
My Dementia Caregiver Journey: An Unexpected Path to Enlightenment
I’ve read plenty of articles about how dementia changes the person diagnosed with it; but a commentary on how the dementia journey changes you, a loving family member, friend or caretaker, is much harder to come by. That being said, I've come across valuable guidance on how to interact with a person with dementia (Teepa Snow), the benefits of caretaker “self-care” (it is a marathon, not a race), the raw emotional impact (Jann Arden), and insights regarding all stages of the condition … [Read more...]
What I Learned About Self-Reflection from Stories and Quotes
I read a story last week about life. It was a simple story, written in easy to understand words and articulated from the perspective of a “fairy”. Yes, you read that right. A fairy. During the days that followed, I was often pulled back into the “fairy story” thinking about the choices we make, the corners we turn and fragility of life. I know that all this sounds pretty lofty and esoteric, but through the eyes of the narrator (the fairy), the reflective moments illustrated by the tale hit my … [Read more...]
Episode 6: Let’s Talk About … How Does Frustration Show Up in Your Life?
Frustration. It is a fact of life that grabs most people in its fiery clutches every now and then ... but, is it a friend or foe? Please join SoulVox L*I*V*E Internet radio hosts Mildred Lynn McDonald, John Carosella and Madonna MacInnis as they tackle the inner and outer dance of frustration with the following practical questions: 1. How does frustration show up in your life? 2. How does the energy of frustration teach us? 3. Do you have a personal tip on how to deal with day to day or long … [Read more...]