Reflections on digital personal storytelling after having a stalker. — “Are you grateful to be alive?” He threatened me, on our last phone call. This happened in 2017 when I received a series of terrifying phone calls from a stalker. I’ll keep the story brief. Our first encounter began when a man allegedly called from my psychiatrist’s office. …

Sharing my first-hand experiences with the transformative power of reading. — As an adult, I’ve struggled with periods of severe depression, most likely due to bipolar disorder. I’ve always been a voracious reader, ever since finishing my first ever chapter book The Ghost At Dawn’s House. Yet for several years, I lacked energy and motivation — and I even had trouble…

Let’s explore why our doctors sometimes fail in their goal to “do no harm.” — You might think you approach the world objectively — but you don’t. We all see the world through a subjective lens. Our lived experiences, culture, and education form our mindsets. And this includes the people who oversee our healthcare. I have an intimate relationship with doctor’s offices due to living…

Trying to stay afloat during the pandemic. — This fact would probably surprise anyone who knows me — but I absolutely hated couples therapy. I love to talk out my issues, and dive deep into learning about how to improve my mental health. But doing it with the person I love the most? …

Exploring how empathy can lead to more productive online conversations with the people closest to you. — Let’s set one thing straight: I’m not here to invalidate your anger. This article won’t be a plea for civility, with the goal to push aside marginalized voices. I fully believe that public outrage can be appropriate. When facing injustice and oppression, anger becomes absolutely necessary as a tool for…

A glimpse into the mystical world of twins — Right after I crossed the finish line — exhausted, overheated, and proud — as I completed my first five kilometre run, I wanted to share the news with her immediately. She already knew my time, and had been tracking my progress online. My apartment recently flooded, less than two weeks…

Even though the act of tidying is nothing new, the topic of decluttering has become extraordinarily popular — and profitable — in recent years. Many resourceful entrepreneurs have created books, podcasts, television shows, YouTube videos, products, and services to help us get decluttering right. People can easily dismiss this seemingly-trendy…

A complex debate has sparked in the middle of this collective pandemic experience — which jobs, which people and which contributions are considered essential to society? I live in Toronto — a major Canadian city. My federal government defines essential workers as those who are “considered critical to preserving life…

“At least you have a child.” “Well, it’s good you can work from home.” “Other people would kill to have your life.” “It could be worse.” “Don’t worry about it.” “You’re overreacting.” “You’ll live.” “Suck it up.” “Stop being so negative.” We all view the world through the lens of…