First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

Putting On Your Face

Image: Ian Andersen

No Regrets

My therapist has a great response when I veer into the terrain of “if only….”  She reminds me that I did the best I could with the information I had at the time.

Image by Christina Mazzalupo

Getting Ready for a Wedding

In two months, one of my closest friends will be getting married. I’ve beeen asked by one of the grooms to be an official witness, which means signing the Ketubah – the wedding contract in a Jewish marriage. This is an honor for a great occasion, and I’m looking forward to it. As long as good friends surround me, and I have something wonderful to wear, I can lap up the joy.

June Brides by Gayle Kabaker

End of Week Cheer

This week, I went to a talk given by one of my favorite columnists, Gail Collins, who writes for the New York Times. She exudes good cheer and optimism, even though her beat is national politics. If she can stay hopeful in the current political climate, maybe we can too.

Image by Marc Johns

Rummaging Around for a Superhero

I’m a lightweight. So I’m trying to figure out how to lift the heavy propane tank for my gas grill out of the trunk of the car. I asked a neighbor, who cordially let me know he has a bad back. My next strategy is to invite a friend over for dinner, by way of the garage. Suggestions?

Image: Ian Stevenson

The Zen of Practice

Every ballet class begins at the barre in the same way, with plies, a movement where dancers stand with their feet turned out, bend at the knee, then straighten the leg. After that, we move on to a set of exercises that slowly warm the body in practically the same sequence, no matter where the studio. I’ve done these exercises many times a week, for many years, and I never get bored. There’s so much to think about with each movement, so much challenge and rigor, I love the chance to work on it again and again, hoping the next time, I’ll get it right. It’s a lot like life.

Marilyn Monroe in a Hollywood dance class, 1949. Photo by J.R. Eyerman for Life Magazine.

What Helps You Keep Your Footing?

I had envisioned a poll for this post. But I had too many answers: friends, family, work, exercise, spiritual practice, pets, therapist and of course, shoes. What am I leaving out?

Illustration by Franco Matticchio

Making Music

On Sunday, I had the honor of standing beside the Mayor and Chief of Police  in an East L.A. church in support of immigrant rights. At a time of infuriating national inertia, it was uplifting to be with public officials who are willing to do the right thing. It filled my heart with hope.

Illustration by Alessandro Gottardo. Check out his new book.

(My) 5 Ways to Harmony

Really listen
Stay in the present
Practice awe
Be grateful
Make peace with a Republican

Photo by Aline Smithson

Have You Treated Yourself Lately?

It’s important when life gets tough to have something fun to look forward to. Last week, I ordered two J. Crew t-shirts, and they just arrived. It was very satisfying. Chocolate chip cookies work, too.

Photo by Adha Togi