Is there predictive power in assessing functional illiteracy? — During the past years, there have been dozens of candidates that underwent through employment interviews at the organization where I work, and many times I was part of the team unfolding the conversation. Experts teach us that the selection process is not always easy to gear, and there are no…

I’ve walked daily for one year; this is how it helped me with grief after losing a loved one — I have been walking daily and rigorously to face and integrate pain, loss, and suffering. I am sharing how I discovered this tool and the benefits that it brought me. My lessons learned are, of course, genuine and personal. I am hoping it will be of natural use for some…

Can we help our minds evolve without a coach, a personal guru, or a significant financial investment in training? — The body of guidance on personal growth and self-improvement existent out there is simply overwhelming. One way to deal with the apparent confusion entailed by so many options is to remember that there are so many entrances, going towards the same center. …

How a cardio monitor changed the way I do sports — It has been more than seven years since I have first entered an indoor cycling studio. It looked like the perfect opportunity to do some sports together with my husband, instead of having separate classes and workouts at the gym. I entered with no other expectation than to have some…

Hey, you! You in the mirror! The wide-eyed mid-age lady, the one strangers and acquaintances spontaneously call these days “madam,” when she actually still feels like a little girl, what are you running from, when you throw a glimpse over the indifferent reflective surface of the ever-present mirror? Do you…

The sensual/erotic prompt response — The anticipation of your kiss on my lips sets everything in order, in a glimpse. The Earth graciously drifts us through the Universe propelled by my exhale of release and trust. Your breath on my skin makes the tight diaphragm unfold, deep inside my so rarely-explored core. Purple morning glory petals expand into my chest, following the vibrations of our…

Who drives you to the page prompt: Marin Sorescu — The Voice: What are you doing on this shore? My Voice: I mark the margins of the sea, I check the waves with my two feet, I count the seashells as they float. I note the secrets of each stone, As they weigh less each time they roll, I read the algae’s dance in foam, As…