Lean On Us
The older I get, the more nuanced is my understanding of the word, independent. I find it reassuring and reaffirming to rely on people. How about you?
Beautiful artwork by Geoff McFetridge
Are There Times When It’s Essential to Have a Partner?
At my cousin’s wedding some years ago, right after the newlyweds glided through their first dance, the guests got up en masse to join them. Looking around at the scant few still left in their chairs (that would be me and the old ladies), it was as if there was a neon sign above my head broadcasting the word, LOSER. Since then, I’ve always wanted to bring a plus one to a wedding. Tell me, please, in what circumstance have you really wished you had company?
5 days left to enter our CONTEST.
Samba Moves, 1953 from Vintage Scans
End of Week Zen: Let Yourself Be Happy
Today would’ve been my mother’s birthday. I woke up filled with gratitude for all that she gave me, and even when she came up short, I understand (after years of therapy) that she tried her best. Despite a good life that included a wonderful husband and marriage, my mother was not especially good at being happy. This week, while in synagogue, the Rabbi talked about a hospice nurse who spent years with dying patients, and then wrote about their five biggest regrets. Not choosing happiness was among them. A few FPS readers have made reference to this idea, when formulating their single vow. Does this resonate for you?
My hope for all of us is a very happy weekend!
Off For Atonement and Renewal
This is the time of year among my tribe when we take 25 hours off for atonement, reflection and new beginnings. We examine our vows, get a reprieve from those we didn’t fulfill, and make another round of pledges and commitments. As I contemplate these weighty issues (on an empty stomach no less), consider a vow to yourself. Share it with us, and you could win a really cool prize.
Mural by Hyuro. Photo by Dustin Chambers
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Enter our new CONTEST.
Drawing by Shel Silverstein, the great cartoonist and writer born on this day in 1930.
Contest: What is Your Single Vow?
It’s wonderful to give. We feel good about it. We celebrate with loved ones for their engagements, weddings, anniversaries, baby arrivals, and are happy to send along a gift to honor these joyous occasions. But today is your opportunity to get. FPS is launching a new contest, and an exciting new tradition that we’re calling a “SINGLE registry.” It’s our way to celebrate and honor being single. The winner will get a $50 gift certificate to Crate and Barrel. To enter, answer the question: what vow will you make to yourself? It can be far reaching in scope or concerned with minutiae. Submit your entry using the Comments section. Include your first name. If you win, we’ll email for your U.S. shipping address, and telephone number. By submitting you’ll become an FPS subscriber (if you’re not already). If you have any questions, please ask. Deadline to enter is October 5.
Study for First Face, 1967, by Tom Wesselmann
At Home With a Sick Dog
My dog Rose and I enjoy the mornings. We wake up alert, ready to go. But this morning, my spunky, sturdy Rose was listless. She snubbed her nose at food and water and barely moved from a defensive crouch behind the chair. As I looked into her mournful eyes, I wished she could tell me what was wrong. After an anxious day, I brought her to the Vet. Rose has a gastrointestinal infection, and is now on a regimen of probiotics, antibiotics, and this being California, perhaps some version of downward facing dog.
Image by Royal Art Lodge
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FIRST PERSON SINGULAR is a guide to surviving, thriving and sometimes just getting through a single day. Created by Wendy Braitman (more…)
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