After years of dancing, my hamstring muscled are fairly stretched. If I bend over with knees straight, I can easily rest my palms flat on the floor. From what I can tell, physical flexibility is achievable for most of us, with a little determination and regular practice. It doesn’t take particular skill or genetic gifts. On the other hand, a flexible temperament eludes my grasp, no matter how much I practice. How about you?
Women practicing yoga in Hunan Province from the year in photos, 2015
In honor of the first night of Hanukkah, I made a batch of latkes (potato pancakes). This is no easy feat. The batter is wet, and as it fries, it sprays oil over the stove, my forearm and nearby counters. Even today, my place reeks. But served with a dollop of apple sauce and sour cream, this could be my favorite meal of the year. After all the effort, I poured a martini, lit the menorah (candles) and savored a holiday moment, that despite experiencing alone, felt utterly complete.
Pantone just announced its 2016 colors of the year: “Joined together, ‘Rose Quartz’ and ‘Serenity’ demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness, as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.” I’m in.
All day, I’ve been feeling queasy with the news of another horrific gun massacre. San Bernardino is in a nearby county, and still it’s a world apart from my West Hollywood neighborhood. But I can’t look away. The vise of violence is tightening its grip. In my political circles, we’re mobilizing in support of common sense gun control. But I’d be lying if I didn’t admit to a sense of hopelessness. What more will it take?
Illustration by Sandra Eterovic