Jan/Feb 2025

  • A Contract That Unites Us

    A Contract That Unites Us

    A Contract That Unites Us

    The author, TM Scanlon refers to the philosophical idea of “contractualism,” or, as he puts it, “what we owe to each other.” Pared down and simplified this concept concerns the morality of interpersonal behavior. When I first heard this as a question “What do we owe to each other?” an offshoot of the ubiquitous “What…

  • So Much Love

    So Much Love

    A Contract That Unites Us

    In 1988, since I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom, we moved to Kansas City because Funk was offered a job there that covered my lost wages. We’d changed locations many times, but this was a difficult move. Missouri is in the middle of the country and the people were so different than the people…

  • Is There a Hotseat in Your Class?

    Is There a Hotseat in Your Class?

    A Contract That Unites Us

    Many years ago, when a new student joined my English class after the school year began, she responded to a question with “I don’t know.” Some kids quietly groaned or rolled their eyes. A couple leaned over and whispered, “That’s not allowed in this class.” That surprised me because I never told them not to…

  • The Strait and Arrow

    The Strait and Arrow

    A Contract That Unites Us

    I had an archery set when I was six. My dad would set up a hay bale or some other kind of target in the backyard for me to practice on. Learning was not easy. You use muscles that you didn’t even know you had! Mixing the necessary skills with my cerebral palsy adds another complication.…

  • Go Beyond the Swipe to Find Authentic Love

    Go Beyond the Swipe to Find Authentic Love

    A Contract That Unites Us

    Dear Grayce, Dating today feels more challenging than ever, especially for those over forty-five. Finding meaningful connections between busy schedules, social media, and the ever-growing dating apps is complex. I’m a successful, independent person, but dating has become a series of endless swipes and shallow conversations. Is it just me, or is it getting more…

  • For Better Health This Year, Start Small

    For Better Health This Year, Start Small

    A Contract That Unites Us

    As the New Year rolls around, many of us are bombarded with advice on how to overhaul our lives. Eat clean. Hit the gym. Take supplements. Get more sleep. While these are all great goals, the sheer volume of them can feel overwhelming, causing us to stall before we even begin. But what if I…

  • About Relationships: Business & Otherwise

    About Relationships: Business & Otherwise

    A Contract That Unites Us

    The foundation of any successful business, partnership, or marriage lies in the ability to foster meaningful and lasting relationships. Yet, paradoxically, many companies and individuals often fail to invest adequately in training and skills necessary to cultivate these bonds. The result? Frustration, strained partnerships and, ultimately, lost opportunities. Take customer service, for example. Many organizations…

  • Consistent Actions Lead to Significant Growth

    Consistent Actions Lead to Significant Growth

    A Contract That Unites Us

    As the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, millions worldwide will have set ambitious resolutions to transform their lives. Some vow to lose weight, others to save money, and many to achieve career milestones. While these goals are admirable, the reality often falls short. The problem isn’t the goals but the approach to achieving…

  • What Will the New Year Bring?

    What Will the New Year Bring?

    A Contract That Unites Us

    As 2025 begins, I find myself filled with anticipation and excitement. There’s something magical about a blank piece of paper and the promise of new goals for my business. The start of a new year brings a sense of clarity and renewed purpose, ready to be filled with ambitious dreams and strategic plans. Two weeks…