Tag Archives: gratitude

Need a boost for your sense of optimism? Start here

“I want to know how you can be so optimistic.” I don’t know why, but this has become a common thread in my conversations lately. As I’ve been briefing advocates on the current political landscape, and helping friends make sense of the recent election, a thought like this almost always creeps into the conversation. UntilContinue reading “Need a boost for your sense of optimism? Start here”

A Different Thought from the Shooting in Texas

Originally I had a much different post in mind for this week. But the events in Uvalde, Texas are weighing heavily on me this evening so I’ll beg your forgiveness for a brief diversion. When I started this blog, the mission I had in mind was quite simple: make the intangible work of advocacy justContinue reading “A Different Thought from the Shooting in Texas”

What we get wrong about optimism

I’m not an optimist because everything is right in my world. I’m an optimist because it’s in our power to change what’s wrong.

If You Want To Be An Optimist, Begin By Giving Thanks

I was catching up with a friend recently and he said I seemed more optimistic, more confident in the future. The comment stuck with me over the past few weeks. And as I’ve sat with it, evaluating what could be different, I’m left with one simple answer: I’m more grateful these days. Over the lastContinue reading “If You Want To Be An Optimist, Begin By Giving Thanks”

2 Uncomfortable Policy Proposals to Actually Support Veterans

People across the country are pausing today to say ‘thank you’ to veterans of our armed forces. From social media posts to full-blown community parades, the celebrations will take many forms. Especially in the years since 9/11, we’ve gotten better at expressing our gratitude to those who’ve served. I count my blessings every year toContinue reading “2 Uncomfortable Policy Proposals to Actually Support Veterans”

3 Advocacy Basics You Can Do, Right Now

There seems to be a whole lot of activity happening in the normally quiet, restful period known as August “recess”. I use quiet and restful loosely here, because it’s just a matter of perspective. From the view point of district staff for members of congress it’s a time to dread the frenetic activity that ensuesContinue reading “3 Advocacy Basics You Can Do, Right Now”

There’s Room for Everyone to Succeed

The surest way to achieve your own goals is to help others achieve theirs. When we think of serving each other in this way, we acknowledge an abundance in the world around us – and that there’s more than enough for all of us to find success. I was reminded of this truism while paintingContinue reading “There’s Room for Everyone to Succeed”

Another Day in Ohio Politics…

You know, I had a plan for this week. I knew just what I was going to write about. Wouldn’t you know it, I even had one of my posts DRAFTED 3 days early. And then Ohio political news struck AGAIN! This morning, over his various social media platforms, Ohio Congressman Steve Stivers announced heContinue reading “Another Day in Ohio Politics…”

Ending the Holiday Hiatus

Like so many of you, I decided to take some much needed time away from work in the past couple of weeks. For me, that included a brief hiatus from posting on this site. Strangely, despite only being at this for a couple of months, taking a break from blogging was surprisingly difficult. I’ve neverContinue reading “Ending the Holiday Hiatus”