Let’s dispel some myths about introverts. — Changing perspectives about introverts may hold a key to effective changes in a divisive world. While the challenges of covid lockdowns were devastating for many, certainly some handled the solitude much better than others. …

Awakened empaths have learned to manage and embrace their gifts What is an empath? Empaths are highly intuitive and sensitive creatures. They are deeply attuned to the world around them in unusual ways. They can sense emotions and wounds in people, and might feel the sadness and want to help…

Once heart strings have been pulled by a dog, love crawls in and stays forever — If the kindest souls were rewarded with the longest lives, golden retrievers might outlive us all. I was afraid of dogs as a kid. We never had one, so I couldn’t imagine sharing life with a dog. Yet the day came when it was hard to imagine living without one. …

What might Molly Ivins say about Bushwacked journalism? — Who ever thought you could make politics funny? When it comes to political satire, few delivered it funnier than bestselling author and journalist, Molly Ivins. This badass Texan lady showed the world the meaning of moxie with her brazen ability to dump humor and satire on the seriousness of politics…

Maybe I’m amazed at the way I’m writing all the time — The early days on Planet Medium for a writer might feel like an alien who landed on some remote planet. Even those who have some experience as a writer may find navigation and speaking the Medium language to be quite daunting. …

A true story about free speech, satire, and tyranny — Some have a love/hate relationship with social media, especially Twitter and Facebook. Both platforms began to be heavily censored and plagued with bots and so-called “fact-checkers” which I found disturbing. Twitter can be a bridge to staying in contact with other writers who read and support each other. It also…

No, this bon voyage bucket list does not include Paris — Enjoy this collection of hidden gems that might delight those who value “off-the-beaten-path” travel excursions. This journey, should you decide to come along, includes hidden beach locations as well as other not-well-known adventures, often with no need for a car. Large crowded touristy hot spots are usually avoided in favor…

Boomer hippies unite! — Too young for Woodstock, too old for Elvis Hippies my age lived in sort of a time warp for Boomers. We were too young for Woodstock (bummer), and the Viet Nam war ended before we were old enough to even join the protests. …