“No party,” I plead to my co-workers, who ask if they can throw me a “you’re leaving us” bash.
They listen intently and nod an okay to my protestations. But on my last day of work, I’m informed that the Board is celebrating the Autumn Equinox at 5 p.m. in our gold-trimmed China Cabin, which sits proudly on the S.F. Bay.
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“Close your eyes and think of nothing,” the psychology teacher instructs.
“Nothing?” several of the high school students ask. An air of festivity surrounds the classroom. This is supposed to be a difficult course. The teacher is known for being very serious about his subject, giving tough tests and even tougher reading assignments. Yet here he is, telling them to close their eyes and think of nothing.
Easy, right? Continue reading
Have you ever imagined what your life would be like if you had the occupation you’d wanted as a child?
I have never regretted this life, I say to myself, as a mantra, over and over again. My knees send me a sharp pain directly to my head, as if punishing me for lying.
Well, maybe I’ve regretted it occasionally, but I know I’ve chosen well. I’ve chosen the only thing I can do with my life.
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When my man and I left New England four years ago, I swallowed a huge lump in my throat – a lump of fear and relief, joy and dread, wonder and excitement. After ten years of incredible autumns, rejuvenating springs, god-awful winters and soul-satisfying summers, we were moving back to the land that I love – San Francisco Bay area.
And when our friends greeted us on the left coast, I blithely and ridiculously said, “I’ll never live on the East Coast again.” Continue reading
“I don’t feel old. I don’t feel anything until noon. Then it’s time for my nap.” Bob Hope
Boy, I wish I could nap.
I watch my guy on a soft slow Saturday afternoon, slumped on the large armchair in front of the window. If his eyes were open, he’d survey the soft fluffy clouds floating over the azure blue waters, and he’d note the gentle movement of the white sailboats as they lazed across the Bay.
But his head is leaned back and his mouth is open, releasing a sonorous hum of a snore every 30 seconds. Continue reading
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