Monthly Archives: December 2010

Essay. Meetings and Partings: Thoughts on Love, Loss, and Remembrance

Christmas has come, and my son has decorated the family room with piles of seasonal videos and books, as well as this year’s gifts. He has found as much joy in going through holiday boxes to rediscover the joys of … Continue reading

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Essay. My dog, my son, myself

Angus notices everything. He was the puppy who came out the morning after a rainstorm and realized one of dozens of twigs was an earthworm, that the sound of water at one place on our street signaled a storm drain … Continue reading

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Essay. Angels: A dog, a lot of people, and a revelation

It is Christmas Day. For many there is music everywhere with lyrics about angels singing about peace on earth, good will among mankind. Some people believe there are actual angels, God’s intermediaries with us (from the Greek angelos, messenger), other people … Continue reading

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Article. Medical support groups: Tips and traps

A big problem, if you’re diagnosed with a serious or chronic illness or a loved one is diagnosed, is getting past the isolation to educate yourself, learn coping skills, and eventually, formulate a life that includes (but isn’t defined by) … Continue reading

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Article. Mental illness: We have met the affected, and it is us. Part II

When I was in medical school, a psychiatrist once said it is impossible to help someone with any form of mental illness if they do not seriously want help. I knew that because I had delayed seeing a doctor in … Continue reading

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Article. Mental illness: We have met the affected, and it is us. Part I

When I was a child, I didn’t understand why some illnesses were discussed in normal tones and others in whispers. I remember my mother asking disgustedly once, “How can someone still think cancer is contagious?” but I knew there were … Continue reading

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