Spending in excess usually indicates a loss of control, a compulsive urge to shop, and a need to fill a void. Poor money management skills that lead to bad spending habits may be more psychologically- than financially-based.
When we look for something good to come our way, are we looking for a lucky break or a blessing that comes from faith.
Dreams are often elusive and confusing. We try to figure out the message only to find we can't remember the details. The best we can do is attempt to identify the themes of our dreams in hopes of gaining a better understanding of our life experiences.
Writing haiku is a tricky but fun endeavor. Trying to adhere to every rule will cause re-write after re-write until the poet gets it right.
Sometimes we fall, then we get back up. We live and learn while learning as we live, only to start over again. We look forward to learning how to ride the bike of life.
Humans are like seasons, as unpredictable as the weather, going from hot then cold, as they interact with each other. People are seasonal.
Sometimes we don't need to do anything special to win over our partners. Our love interest can be content just observing and receiving sweet little nothings by the things we do or say.
The uniqueness of the individual snowflake melts away when millions of them combine to form magical sights during the winter season.
One of the most difficult virtues to uphold as humans is patience. Only the rare earthly being can perfect is as it eludes the most common among us.
Good relationships endure as time passes, sealed with love and the images of old photographs. Sisters have some of the strongest bonds, becoming best friends forever in life, and in memory.
The nightly watch for falling stars becomes a ritual in fulfillment of dreams we wish to come true. Catching one in hand secures the blessings of those dreams we see in our future.
Relationships take the shape of the four seasons. New love blooms in springtime, heats up during the summer, before moving into the inevitable changes of autumn, followed by the freezing cold in the dead of winter. But the favorite season for love is summertime.
In remembrance of a tragic day in September, this poem highlights a characteristic of that day: a bright, blue sky which was overcast by the images seared into our minds forever.
A shadow is not always projected out from one object onto another. Sometimes we cast shadows inward by the masks we wear to cover up what we wish to hide. The reality is we end up losing our true selves behind shadows we create.
Prayer requires vulnerability, an openness of the soul, and an awareness of need. Before you engage in prayer, strip down, let go, and embrace your nakedness in solitude.
The article "Vilifying 'Karens' May Diminish Us All" created a lot of controversy when the author suggested that society has been too harsh in its mob-like reactions to white women who use their privilege to confront and scold people of color. This is a rebuttal.
In a most unexpected event, like a pandemic, needs ignite. Circumstances cannot dictate self control when it comes to basic human desires.
Amid the historic coronavirus pandemic, the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, during an online sermon, asked us to take note of what we can see, now that our eyes have been opened by the deadly impact of COVID-19 on humanity.
The American people remain conflicted, traumatized and fearful as they prepare to vote for a presidency that can offer stability. They want steady leadership for a nation in turmoil, with a hope that democracy can be restored and maintained in 2024.
We are all familiar with the phrase, "what goes around comes around." This Buddhist law of nature, referred to as karma, is said to complete one's consequential destiny, based on preceding behaviors and actions. A poem expresses how karma waits to deliver this fate.
When someone dies by suicide, the act leaves those left behind feeling distraught and bewildered. It's hard to understand why the deceased loved one felt suicide was their only choice. More often than not, family and friends struggle for the rest of their lives in search of answers.
After surviving the many hurdles of life, a couple's mature love forms a lasting union. Through their journey, couples in long term relationships celebrate the strength of sustained, romantic love.
In celebration of National Poetry Month, the gift of spring rain is expressed in four haiku.
In acknowledgement of victims and survivors, haiku style poems are offered in honor of the lives lost in recent terror attacks in America and around the world.
Visitations of the deceased appear to us unexpectedly in life forms. If we are attentive, and believe, we can see our loved ones as they are here with us in the spirit realm.
Having a good job doesn't always mean you should keep it forever. Thinking about quitting? Here are 10 reasons why leaving a good job might be a good idea.
"Kuumba" is the sixth principle of Kwanzaa. It is the Swahili word for creativity, practiced by African Americans on Day 6 of the 7-day observance of African heritage, values, and principles.
As people of color are judged by perceived negative traits rather than character, black men in particular feel under siege. Stereotyping one's physical appearance not only affects how he's treated but also how he secretly feels about himself.
Senseless acts of violence and terrorism are once again reported as breaking news across the world. This coordinated act of violence will no doubt take its place in history as one of the worst ever.
Before we care for others, we must take care of ourselves. We forget to secure our own "oxygen masks" before we start tending to others. We subsequently risk over-extending our capacity to give.
All natural antibiotic-free chicken tastes better than chicken plumped up with chemicals. Try this great tasting recipe for Roasted Chicken Legs made with savory seasonings.
Every now and then, we meet a friend who was meant to be in our life for just a season. After they're gone, we ponder the meaning of the chance encounter. We cherish the lessons and gifts received.
Staying too long in a toxic relationship can damage the mind, body and spirit. Letting go is the only way to recover, heal, and reclaim your confidence and independence.
Broken trust is one of the most difficult things to repair in a relationship. It will take time and hard work for wounds to heal. This article includes tips to help rebuild trust after betrayal.
Meeting with a therapist for psychotherapy can be a very uncomfortable experience. It's anxiety-provoking to know that someone is evaluating your every word. It definitely leaves you feeling exposed.
Secret obsessions take over emotions and cloud good judgment. We yearn for that secret love to fulfill all of our dreams. We want to act on it but realize our obsession is best lived out as fantasy.
Stewardship involves giving time, talent, and treasure at church. Members may find it difficult to balance life obligations and church commitments. Prayer and sacrifice are needed to strike a balance.
Certain trauma work professions have similarities in job function and expectations. Cops, counselors, and clergy are impacted in similar ways by job demands which make them more alike than different.
Regardless of the technological options available for reading books, true book lovers will always want to read and touch the pages of a real book. This article lists the top 10 reasons for loving real books.
Dr. Maya Angelou dared to dream. To hear her voice in person is to experience poetic grace. She recited a poem in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at a luncheon for women civil rights leaders.
Thinking about a fruit salad for your next picnic or barbecue? How about creating fruit kabobs, instead? Impress your guests with a new twist on a refreshing summer favorite.
We often shut out the world by retreating to our bedrooms. We curl up in the softness of our beds and pull the covers over our heads for relaxation, escape, or avoidance of reality.
POI is a rare type of infertility causing young women to ponder the likelihood of their inability to bear biological children. Information on diagnosis, symptoms, research, and support are offered.
Companionship has its advantages when it comes to having someone to count on for the long term. A life partner provides a relationship where good times and bad times are shared as a couple.
As time passes, the realization sinks in that something is missing. Feeling unfulfilled can make a person feel incomplete. This article will help you explore how to feel spiritually whole again.
Anticipating big events creates an excitement, often followed by disappointment when something goes wrong. Murphy's Law infiltrated many events in history, reminding us, "if it can go wrong, it will."
Random acts of violence are assaulting our souls almost daily. Let us attempt to eradicate these random acts of violence in the world with random acts of kindness and love.
Enjoy the succulent taste of curry chicken, oven-broiled on a skewer. Marinated with seasonings for great flavor, curry chicken kabobs with vegetables are easy to make for dinner or party appetizers.
Human nature causes us to behave in that ways that represent the true self. But we often mask our true selves by the characters we present. A poem addresses connections between our nature and actions.
When a marriage is over, a time comes when both parties are forced to let go and accept that their marriage is at its end. Getting over a failed marriage can pose a challenge. Helpful hints are below.
There are a few times a year when church attendance with family or relatives prompts thoughts of joining or returning to regular worship. Ten practical reasons for joining a church are suggested.
Spa baskets make gift-giving easy for all occasions, especially for the holidays. Ten basic tips are offered for making unique spa baskets for women as custom gifts or for your gift basket business.
The frequency of senseless killings of the innocent seems to be on the rise in our communities. It breaks the heart of a nation to hear about the violent, preventable death of another human being.
Multitasking and forgetfulness sometimes results in memory failure. It seems the more we try to remember, the more forgetful we become. A poem and helpful tips for recall are offered.
The emotional pain of getting a sexually transmitted disease, or STD, is devastating. You question the fidelity of your relationship, the risks to your health, and the future of your quality of life.
Deciding to live with someone before marriage may seem like a good idea. But living together could damage a relationship, bringing out the good and the bad, causing a couple to rethink their decision.
The perfect meatball can be achieved by several traditional cooking methods. This recipe uses vegetable juice to create the juiciest, most tender turkey meatball you'll ever taste.
As men approach midlife, conflicts arise regarding family, relationships, and career. Midlife crisis in men is a common phenomenon causing deep introspection, internal struggle, and indecisiveness.
HubPages writers are members of a unique publishing site. The invaluable learning experiences and supportive encounters help produce some of the most prolific writers and best content on the web.
Poetry is a play on words, using structure and verse form. A poet's play on words and rhyme comes forth most eloquently through a sacred process, as he pulls from the most intimate places of his soul.
Ending a complicated relationship is a difficult task with many mixed feelings for the couple. This article uses the Villanelle poetry form to illustrate the back and forth intensity of a break up.
A parent lets go of her child at several stages of development, allowing the child to grow up and eventually become independent. This can be more difficult for the parent than it is for the child, but here are some ways to make it easier for everyone.
Salmon patties are quick and easy to prepare for your family, offering a tasty and affordable seafood dinner. Paired with baked fries, the children will enjoy it and you can stay within your budget.
Avoid the mistake of overindulgent parenting that could create self-centered, narcissistic children. Set limits with love and increase your chances of raising children who become healthy adults.
I strive for balance in all aspects of my personality. I live life with focus and purpose. This poetry hub was inspired by a poetry challenge to use acrostic form to describe my personality.
Deep Creek Lake inspires an appreciation of nature. Whether it's a bear in winter or a bird in the spring, this popular vacation resort offers a chance to interact with nature, up-close and personal.
It's difficult to grasp the meaning of a painful loss at the time it occurs. Years may pass before a full understanding of the collective lessons of loss are revealed.
Like a bubble, we thrive as we move from one phase of life to the next. Colors change from bright to dull, as we ebb and flow through transitions. Until the end, we learn to accept life's changes.
It's not easy to live with the little annoyances or "quirks" your spouse displays. But after years of marriage, you can learn to appreciate all things about your spouse through unconditional love.
We look for peace and balance within, searching for stability in the hustle of trying to attain balanced lifestyles. Our constant search for peace can elude us if we don't take the time for self-care.
These savory, marinated roasted pork chops paired with potatoes offer an alternative to frying. Roasting is a sure-fire way to lock in the savory flavors and ensure the meat's tenderness.
This easy shrimp recipe, made with savory seasonings, will be ready in no time. The best method of preparation ensures healthier seafood! I've also covered some of the nutritional info.
Self-centered people are easy to spot by the behaviors they exhibit. Whether they are complaining, speeding, criticizing, or talking about themselves, they never fail to annoy the people around them.
The absence of cleanliness in women's public bathrooms defies reason. Although women are said to be the neater of the sexes, habits in public bathrooms say otherwise and could use improvement.
Children don't understand and are not always aware of the effects their words have on each other. They tend to repeat what they hear and model their parents who can teach them to tolerate differences.
Celebrating a milestone birthday can come with feelings of excitement and uncertainty. However, a growing number of women embrace getting older with an attitude of gratefulness, as they begin to count their blessings.
Comfort food in the Jamaican-American household means curry chicken. This quick stew has the ingredients and spices that satisfy your hunger, as it is a hearty, authentic, and easy Caribbean meal.
When you pass homeless persons on the street, see them through the eyes of poetry. Remove the lenses that distort your perceptions. You will clearly see images of humanity and dignity in the homeless.
Adjustments to writing online can interfere with a newbie's confidence and success. As a new member of a writing community called HubPages, the newbie can feel clueless and may benefit from support.
Community service work and volunteering spread goodwill to those in need and benefits those who give, particularly those who feed the hungry. Volunteering is good for all involved.
Feeding programs for those in need are awarded grants by The Hunger Fund of the Episcopal Diocese in Washington, DC. The Kwanzaa Kitchen Breakfast Program of Saint George's Church is a recipient.
Everyday, events occur causing us to ask, "What is the role of divine intervention?" As we try to understand why things happen, our faith tells us that all things, good and bad, are divinely ordered.
Gift baskets are popular among friends and family. As a hand-made gift-giving idea, spa baskets honor women who love to relax and pamper. Spa baskets are great gifts for any occasion.
Are you buying more off-brand foods at a discount because they're more affordable? More consumers are choosing off-brand foods to save money on groceries and still enjoy tasty, quality products.
There are questions you want to address in your relationship but avoid asking. Suggestions for asking ten relationship questions of your partner are outlined, along with common themes and concerns.
Try spicing up your catfish with the rich flavor of curry. This low-fat, healthy seafood dinner offers a tasty meal that is low in calories, high in essential fatty acids, and full of flavor.
Roast pork loin with ginger soy can be a welcome addition to your table. It complements a traditional menu of mashed potatoes, stuffing, rice pilaf, gravy, cranberries, and sweet potatoes.
Our desires make us see and want what we can't have so we become envious of others. This is an inspirational poem on the emotion of envy, driven by yearning, greed, and insecurity.
Spike Gourmet Natural Seasonings enhances flavor without much salt. This review details the benefits of cooking with less sodium and more natural herbs and spices for great tasting food.
Looking for a romantic meal to cook for your date? Italian chicken breast is quick and easy to prepare, offering succulent flavors and aromas. Impress your date tonight with a homemade dinner for two.
Stewardship means offering time and talent, as well as treasure, in the form of tithes. Some church members have fears about keeping up their tithes and other financial obligations, giving in faith.
For a quick seafood recipe for tonight's dinner party, try this low-carb, low-fat, baked salmon with herb crust. Beautifully prepared without that fishy taste, baked salmon is always a crowd-pleaser.
It is common for us as human beings to judge others. We tend to compare and compete, analyze and label each other, as we try to establish our own value in this world. A poem is offered.
Breaking news stories affect us when we hear and see that something bad has happened. We have been impacted psychologically by the reporting of these events that seem to increase daily in our society.
I salute the island of Jamaica in a poem for my ancestors. Its beauty is exhibited in exotic colors and richness, creating a perfect getaway on this island paradise. A resort in Negril is featured.
A cup of hot black tea has its origins steeped in culture with relaxing benefits. Whether Ceylon, Assam, or Darjeeling, proper brewing, steeping, and presentation create a perfect cup of hot tea.
In our fast-paced society, we always seem to be in a rush. If only we could slow down and have more patience, we might find that we will reach our destinations in time, without having to rush.
Your mind can hold secrets of the past for a long time. Untold memories can haunt and shame, taking away your joy if you don't confront and resolve them. Getting support through therapy can help.
Hurricane Irene hit the east coast with a vengeance before being downgraded to a tropical storm. She left some in her path shocked by her power. A bathroom window view perspective of Irene is shared.
Tai chi is considered in the West to be a method of exercise known for enhancing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Each individual must maximize his or her own benefit through regular practice.
Sudden death is tragic to families and loved ones. Words barely describe how the devastation changes lives forever. This poem follows a sister's grief after the death of her brother to gun violence.
Coming to terms with infertility entails a process of overcoming sadness and acceptance of a painful reality. The challenges of this unique type of loss are expressed in a poem of hope and self-love.
The success of reality television rests primarily upon young women who behave badly. Teaching girls social skills and proper behavior will help to increase positive self-image and future success.
A poet's creative process can stop suddenly, rendering empty pages. A poem about writer's block is offered as well as suggested resources to help creative writing return.
When your brain goes blank, it temporarily interrupts your ability to perform. Take control of that foggy feeling in your head by employing five practical steps to combat and prevent blank brain.
In an era of advanced internet technology, students take for granted their easy access to information. They admit they couldn't have made it without a computer a generation ago. (Rising Star Award)
Unhealthy relationships keep many young couples caught on a roller coaster of love. They ignore the warning signs and stay together, feeling indecisive about what to do before it becomes abusive.
Oxtail stew is a rich tradition of Jamaican culture. When prepared the authentic way, you will get all of the flavor and consistency that give oxtail stew that unmistakable taste of the Caribbean.
A marriage troubled by broken trust can lead to the decision to end it. Staying together to save a broken marriage is a viable choice for those couples who want to save their marriage and not end it.