Explaining Our Language — Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to give thought to a multitude of English words and phrases, along with several unique Americanisms. The catalyst has been a guest from Italy who is already quite proficient in her English skills and is pushing herself to be even better…

The chilled Starbucks air felt heavenly on such a hot and muggy day. Accompanying that relief was an unexpected and greatly appreciated gift — actually, two gifts. One of my insecurities is a fear of not being remembered. I’m getting better, but I still hesitate to approach someone I met…

And the Introverted Dogs of Sweden — In the middle of these dog days of summer, I came upon a video of dazed and confused dogs. (Homage to Led Zeppelin noted.) The occasion? An introverted dog meetup in Sweden. In a world filled with frolicking dogs, this group was frozen, seeming to wonder why they were there…

A Conversation with Oneself and Others — My eye was caught recently by an article about prison consultants (here) — a specialty I hope to never need. I was intrigued and started to read, staying with it until I had finished every word. …

Walking in the Bowery this weekend, I engaged in a conversation of sorts with two artists whose work was chalked on New York City sidewalks. The first stated that “Time is Illusive.” The image was an eye with what appears to be three tears. Did the artist find illusiveness sad…

It’s bigger than the sum of its parts. For several years now, I have encouraged people to engage in “random conversations” as a way to build their comfort and skill in speaking with others. Talking with a stranger is relatively low risk, as long as you choose your stranger wisely. …

I think about communication and conversation constantly, so it’s no surprise that this wrote itself as I experienced a blissful two-hour massage. Why is it we often give more care to the things we do than the words we say? Both are important. Words deserve respect. They have the power…

Curiosity Unlocks it All — The conversation started with fish — specifically, the sellers of the freshest fish at the farmers market. And from there, it took wings and flew, touching here and there, and circling back now and again. I was a rapt audience as I sheltered during a torrential downpour, but it wasn’t…

More is Sometimes Just More — Nature is a profound teacher. My lesson this week came from a rosebush on the path of my walk to Washington Square Park. After keeping an eye on its multiple green buds for days, one was now open — and it was perfect! I have always found a single rose…