feeling our feelings

Communication is all about relationship and relationship is all about feelings.  Sure, we share ideas, inspirations, opinions, beliefs, uncertainties.  But underneath it all, like music behind the words, are the feelings:  love, fear, hurt, anxiety, disappointment, anger, frustration, jealousy.. so many more that have no names.  Feelings are like spectrum Read more…

Relationship Heart Attacks

Mindful communication is all about relationship.  As a family systems therapist I regard communication patterns to be like the circulatory system of our body.  When there are blockages, our relationships are at risk for heart attacks.  Sometimes these attacks are fatal and the relationship never recovers.  Lovers turn into enemies, Read more…

Green Zones

Outside the apartment building, next to the gas station, are two lines of park benches along the sidewalk facing each other at a respectable distance.  Sitting here I watch people and dogs of all ages and sizes gather in the late afternoon.   An elderly man leans over chatting with Read more…

Kafuffle

This morning was my 12th aerobics class at the senior center and three completely new things happened. There are about 25 of us ranging from age 55 to 75 and as usual we were marching and dancing and grapevineing to the disco beat, encouraged by our youthful instructor. The first Read more…