On Being includes a post by Parker J. Palmer that, while not intended to focus on Father’s Day, applies to parenting: Have the courage to make small contributions knowing that there is a cumulative power in your imperfections. Palmer writes…
She says, you too can rise
Maya Angelou (1928 – 2014), heart, soul and voice of “And Still I Rise.”
Best wedding vows: perfect marriage by following science?
Psychology Today offers us scientific wedding vows. Samantha Joel’s list includes (excerpt): 1. “I promise to respect, admire, and appreciate you for who you are, as well as for the person you wish to become.” 2. “I promise to support…
Essentials, priorities and lifestyle choices: How to set up a quick budget
LearnVest offers a simple budgeting rule to apply instantly to your household. Your take-home pay is allocated among three categories: essentials [50%], priorities [20%], and lifestyle choices [30%]. Laura Shin writes (excerpt): The 50/20/30 Rule can be easy because instead…
Graceful disagreement: Guidelines for giving and taking honest feedback
On Being highlights the work of Brené Brown and offers us guidance on compassionate criticism. Mariah Helgeson writes (excerpt): I’m ready to sit next to you rather than across from you. I’m willing to put the problem in front of…
What would you do with a $20 bill?
CBS highlights superhero Myles Eckert, age 8.
Secrets to finding happiness in your life and relationships
The TED Radio Hour features insights into happiness research and simpler ways of life. The “Simply Happy” episode includes: Pharrell and his “Happy” song. Matt Killingsworth on staying in the moment. Carl Honoré on slowing down to enjoy life. Graham…
Valentine’s and Violence
Jim Wallis poses some interesting thoughts about celebrating February 14th. He writes (excerpt): Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, our annual reminder to celebrate the love we share in our lives. While many may be struggling through aisles of candy hearts and…
Why am I not happy? Or am happy? Or not sure? Graphic research findings
Trent Gilliss at On Being shares a Webpage FX infographic on “The Science of Happiness.” Gilliss writes (excerpt): The infographic above may not capture the details of the science, but it jogs a host of questions and insights. A few…
Considering Cosby: comedy with commentary
CNN-HLNtv offers us a take on Bill Cosby’s “10 greatest lessons.” Colette Bennett’s slideshow commentary includes these life lessons (excerpt): 1. Age is in your mind: “Old is always 15 years from now.” 2. Fear is all that’s stopping you:…
Sincerity and follow-through: How to apologize
Steven Stosny, Ph.D. helps us understand how to “[master] the art and science of apology” and shows the wonders of reconciliation–for your relationship, your core self, and your overall well-being. Steven Stosny writes (excerpt): Apology must: 1. Come from your…
A passion for social justice: Michael Chielens, rest in peace
MLive notes the passing of “one of those great people,” Michael Chielens, Executive Director of Legal Aid of Western Michigan, who died of cancer this past weekend. Sue Thoms writes (excerpt): “He just had a heart for the underdog and…
How long does it take to process my emotional divorce?
Psychology Today reminds us that divorce recovery is not a one-size-fits-all. It’s a process that you journey through. And you come out on the other side when you do. The time it takes depends on a number of factors. Susan…
What happens when you put down your phone?
charstarleneTV reminds us that life happens when you put down your phone.
Best Divorce and Family Law Lawyers in Grand Rapids
The Best Lawyers in America completed their most recent peer-review selection process, their 20th edition. The confidential survey of Michigan attorneys and judges resulted in the designation of Grand Rapids divorce attorney David C. Sarnacki as one of The Best…
Overwhelming mistakes: how to deal with common problems in facing divorce
The Huffington Post includes “The 5 Worst Mistakes People Make During Divorce.” Contributor Michelle Rozen also posts her tips for making it through your divorce. Michelle Rozen discusses her top 5 (excerpt): Making Decisions Without Fully Understanding the Implications Losing…
The story behind the facts: How to get someone to talk
The New York Times Opinionator reminds us that what’s good for writers is good for us all. When you are “seeking the unknown — the story behind the facts,” the secret is is simple. Lee Gutkind writes (excerpt): This is…
Kaganizing erudition: Writing the readable Supreme Court opinion
The New York Times recognizes Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan and her writing style. The editorial notes her goal of writing so that non-lawyers can understand and her usage of techniques to enhance understanding. Lincoln Kaplan writes (excerpt): She is…
Your baby or your phone: Who most deserves your attention?
The State Bar of Michigan’s Blog highlighted The Atlantic WordPlay post “Papa Don’t Text: The Perils of Distracted Parenting.” The author discovered parents pushing strollers and interacting with their phones instead of their children. Deborah Fallows writes (excerpt): These studies…
Grand Rapids divorce attorney named Leading Lawyer in Michigan Family Law
David C. Sarnacki recently was named a “Leading Lawyer” in Michigan Family Law. His past designations include selection as one of “The Best Lawyers in America,” designation as a “Michigan Super Lawyer,” and acceptance as a fellow in the Michigan…