Getting That Foot Back Out of Your Mouth

Not long ago, I found myself in the company of an intelligent woman I like but don't know well. I used a word she was unfamiliar with and asked me to define. "Let us pause and reflect upon this moment!" I...

Don't Hold Your Breath!

If a person hasn't changed in twenty or more years, he or she isn't likely to now. (The exception, of course, is you!) Don't waste time torturing your parents or other family members about why you're angry,...

Fire Your Friends? Maybe There's a Better Way.

(Free Range Stock) A while ago, the women's magazines were urging us to "fire" our "toxic" friends. I say, "Whoa! Not so fast. Aren't most friendships worth saving?" Having been the fired--and...

C.K.'s Be-a-Better-Person Tip, two

Number-one worst fact about life: People die. When they do, they're missed. What can you do to comfort friends and family of the recently deceased? Lots of things--but, at the very least: write. Condolence...

C. Kaye's Be-A-Better-Person tip, number 3

Today, I want to thank my boyfriend's parents, Dom and Glo, for their many acts of kindness over many years. I adore them. Thank someone you adore. If it won't cause a problem to do so loudly and publicly, do...

Make Things Easier For Yourself, Others

I got married this month (one reason you didn't see many blogs from me). All my life, I couldn't understand the reasons for this strange custom. My mother had often tried to persuade me to marry by presenting...

The Big "R"

Today, a salute--a shout out, if you will--to Damien G. at FedEx Kinko's. Damien solved a problem for me graciously and professionally. Contrary to what you may believe, great customer service is not hard to...

It's All In How You Say It

"Why did you..?" "I'm not sure I understand why you..." Two similar ideas; two very different sentences. Before speaking, take a moment to ask yourself, How will this sound? The first sentence puts the...

Give the Dog a Good Name

C.K.'s Be-A-Better-Person Tip, Number 5

So many people I know lie, casually or as a matter of course. After all, higher primates enjoy the ability to do so; it is, in fact, considered a sign of intelligence. And it can make life easier sometimes....