Menderist contributors share how they overcame health issues, whether involving mental or physical challenges.
Special Issues: Family Mental Health, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Memorable Gift, Teacher/Educator, Year in Review
A researcher and mother of six looks back on the year’s upsides and downsides, and describes the approach that’s significantly improved her focus on what’s most important.
“When I look back over all that has happened in 2023, things seem a bit overwhelming….”
A software designer describes the difficulties of dealing with insomnia and shares the simple approach he’s taken to combat the problem.
“As we get older, our sleep patterns change. I’m in my 60s, and for the past year I’ve been dealing with insomnia ….”
An educator who’s come through a difficult year shares the philosophy that’s helped him navigate challenges.
“Far too often I find myself driving to and from work in absolute silence, choosing to take a slightly longer route just to increase my solitude ….”
A writer and publisher describes the most effective small changes she’s made over 2023 to improve her family and personal life.
“On some days, it’s a challenge to feel optimistic. Daily life often has difficulties, and news reports about local and worldwide problems can feel overwhelming ….”
A writer solves his lifelong tendency to be late, and discovers benefits that enrich his personal and professional life.
“I’ll admit it: I have spent many years being late and suffering the consequences. It’s not something I’m proud of…..”
How could have the same kind of accident happened to my family twice…within days?
“It’s finally dinner, and I’m already at the table when my youngest daughter joins us. A serving plate sits at the centre, heaped with the bright orangey red of tandoori….”
It was another rainy day in the middle of tax season. And going to the store was just another errand – until the memories returned.
“April was a month of heavy adulthood. Like many parents, I was a cheerleader for a university student who was writing essays. And responsible for ….”
A university student was having the rough kind of grownup morning. How could her parent help turn the day around?
“My daughter’s day didn’t start off well. She’d stayed up late to finish university essays and study for an exam, and only got a few hours of sleep. In the morning she hurried to get ready for the 7:15 am train and realized she was getting a cold….”
Resources to help our children work through the challenges of the past three-plus years
“Mental health organizations report that, linked to the pandemic, children are showing higher levels of anxiety, depression and loneliness….”
Lessons from a relative who lived with significant physical challenges
“In early January, I went to my cousin’s funeral. Steve died relatively young: he was only in his 60s but experienced lifelong …”
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Every few weeks, people share encouraging essays, anecdotes, and stories about moments that turned their day around.
