Tag Archives: rituals
Shared Joy
This year the last day of Chanukah falls on Christmas Eve, reminding us of the unique connection many inter-faith families share. And for those of us who observe only one of the holidays, it’s nice to see how our friends are enjoying their special parties. Getting together with family enhances the combination of fun, warmth, good food and beautiful decorations – whatever event you’re celebrating. And studies have shown that when families join together to practice their customs and rituals, there’s a positive effect on the children. They’re more likely … Continue reading
Posted in extended family, parenting kids, well-being, your self
Tagged celebration, Chanukah, children, Christmas, customs, Eve, family, friends, Hanukkah, holidays, identity, inter-faith, new years, party, relationships, rituals
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What We Can Learn from Japan about Respect
Looking over my pictures from a recent trip to Japan (click on photos to enlarge) got me thinking about this centuries-old culture. It’s a beautiful country with a certain set of characteristics that make it seem insular, cohesive and unique. There is a tight-knit social fabric, no immigration and the only spoken language is Japanese. With over 34 million people in Tokyo and the surrounding areas, it’s amazingly well organized. Trains and subways run exactly on time, like a Swiss clock. You don’t see any graffiti in common areas or … Continue reading
Posted in extended family, stress, well-being
Tagged gaman, good manners, harmony with nature, hospitality, Japan, Japanese culture, moral standards, omotenashi, photos, rituals, ryokans, strict rules, traditions, travel, Zen Buddhism
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Grandparents’ Day and the Grandmother Effect
Last Sunday, for the 35th time since it was instituted, Grandparents’ Day was observed in the United States, honoring 65 million grandparents. In addition to loving their grandkids, grandparents are often responsible for providing childcare and support. A recent survey found that a grandparent regularly cares for nearly one-third of the children under age 5 who have working mothers. And 3 million grandparents are primarily in charge of raising their grandchildren. For me, love is the main commodity I provide to my grandkids and I get it back in multiples. … Continue reading
Digital Detox and Beautiful Sunsets
Imagine two weeks without an iPhone, Google maps, or conversing in 140 characters. Do you think you’d feel cut off or perhaps be relieved? Maybe it will allow you more time to reflect, come up with novel ideas, or even express yourself verbally. I’m ready to separate my work and personal life. I want to have less stress about my inbox, clear my mind, and experience more personal conversations. As the constant flow of receiving, processing and sending information has become a reality, the trend of vacations from digital technology … Continue reading
