DISQUS

So while I agree with so much of what you say about values, I do have a slightly different perspective. I think there are values that belong to the relationship- that show up in the relationship system. The kind of thing you might find when you ask yourselves the question, "Who are we?" and "Who are we not?" I have been trained by the Center for Right Relationship and there are some novel ways of thinking about couples that are worth looking at www.centerforrightrelationship.com

I Like these ideas. I would add though that it is also important to keep building up and appreciating what is positive in the relationship.

Thanks for pointing that article out. I never got to my NYT yesterday. Very timely.

At first I was feeling so virtuous thinking, I am not really that into wanting "stuff" so of course I can connect to that happiness. But then I realized how many "ethereal" things I want- I want peace and calm, I want space, I want to see my chidlren grow up...And could I let go of those things and still be happy? Wow, feels like there are some hard places to look. Thanks for the question!

Danielle-thank you for reminding us of a A Tale of O. I LOVED that book. I first came across it when doing diversity training for teachers back in the 80's. Shel Silverstein has actually become my son's favorite poet and I just realized he doesn't have this book yet!

I used to be ruled by the desire to be accepted by others. More and more I am inspired to align with my own deepest beliefs.

My neck let's me carry myself with grace and dignity.

Any of Wallace Stegner's books but my two favorites were Angle of Repose and Crossing to Safety. For the last few years I have been reading novels by first time authors- they are often outstanding...

Since we are talking about favorite mistakes and not most painful, I would have to say it was the speeding ticket I got while trying to make my 5:30 a.m. strength training class. The lesson for me (for the millionth time) was to slow down. For the last few months I have been driving at the speed limit everywhere. It is driving everyone else on the road crazy, but I am amzaed at what I can take in and notice when I am driving slower. It is much more calming.

I thought the thermos might be overkill for me so I found "I am not a paper cup" made by DCI Gifts. (www.dcigift.com) It is a thermal porcelain cup that looks exactly like the cardboard ones you get at the coffee shop. The plastic packaging gave me pause but I love carrying it around! Thanks for the idea...