First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

You Don’t Have To Be Born Beautiful To Be Wildly Attractive

Words of wisdom from the fashion icon, Diana Vreeland. The documentary about her life is playing in theaters now. Don’t miss it!

How To Get To Yes!

This morning, I testified at a City Council meeting in support of a program that will benefit the economically vulnerable in Los Angeles. I did this at the request of the Mayor’s office, and it was an inspiring example of government at its finest, and what can happen when motivated people come together to affect positive change.

We are 3 weeks away from the election. For any cynics out there who don’t believe one citizen can make a difference, I’m here to tell you otherwise. Learn about the issues that impact your community. Phone bank. Be involved. Yes!

Artwork by Ted McGrath

What Are You Reading?

Yesterday, I heard about a book, The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can’t Stand Positive Thinking. I love this title, and it makes so much sense to me. The relentless pressure to be happy is enough to make anyone depressed. What a relief to feel like it’s okay not to be upbeat all the time. When I’m tossed around by life, I find reading does help. On my night table right now is Telegraph Avenue by Michael Chabon.

What are you reading?

End of Week Zen

Let’s dance!

When Was the Last Time You Had a Good Cry?

I’m very emotional these days. Today, even baseball made me cry. I actually shed tears when my former home town team, the San Francisco Giants, won an historic victory in the playoffs. It was the perfect win-against-all-odds narrative that I needed for my own inspiration. Yeah, I know. It’s just sports. But oddly, it gave me hope. When is the last time you welled up?

Artwork by Alan Aldridge

Buoyant Tip of the Day

For your affirmation file.

Illustration by Marc Johns

Keep It Clean (or not)

When I reach for the tube of toothpaste in my bathroom cabinet, I think of my mother. She would’ve never let any dirt accumulate. She scrubbed inside and out. She also went to work, came home and cooked, ironed our clothes. She was so weary at bedtime, there was nothing left. I made a mental note of this growing up, determined to make different choices. This could be why I don’t own an iron. I rarely clean behind things. I don’t neatly stack my t-shirts. And I believe I’m happier.

House of Atlas by Grace Weston

How to Keep Hope from Evaporating

Ritual, affirmations, prayer, phone support, hugs from loved ones, therapy, mashed potatoes, not giving up on whatever  you’re hoping for. Practice.

What’s your strategy?

Painting by Karin Kneffel

Why Are You Still Single?

Comic by Corinne Mucha

Hurry. Contest deadline just a few hours away.

The Good Ties That Bind Us

I’ve been poking at this theme lately – the idea that we’re in this together. When you’re single, with no one obvious partner to turn to, developing and nurturing a diversified community is essential. There are many ways to do this, and I want you to know that one of the communities from which I draw strength is you.

Friday, October 5 is the final day to enter our contest. If you haven’t yet done so, check it out. There are already so many wonderful entries. It would be great to hear from you. Thanks!

Image: Colby Poster Company/Anthony Burrill