This collection mirrors the collective struggles and triumphs of unprecedented times, offering a rich assortment of self-care techniques that resonate with readers from all walks of life. Each post, akin to a short chapter, pulses with the essence of a city-and a world-navigating the unknown.
"This book is for those who are ready to heal. It’s an inspirational and thoughtful resource for that still-festering piece of us. It is packed with benevolent advice and provides a great way to cope with the things outside of your control. " – Independent Book Reviews
Unloading, Week Forty-Two in the No Longer New Abnormal
I have too much stuff. I just spent hours going through drawers and closets to clean out what I don’t want anymore and what I don’t need. Though I’m happy I did that and now I can bring bags to the thrift store, and bags to the trash, I am still left with too much stuff. Some things like outdated membership cards were easy to throw out. Vitamins and minerals I rarely take, office supplies I may need at some unknown point in time, and other sundry items make it harder for me to determine their usefulness. When I was younger and lived alone, the small apartment size made it easy to throw things out. I simply didn’t have the space. Though I am so grateful for all the storage space in our present apartment, I find that clutter accumulates in the recesses of those closets.
Happy/Sad, Week Forty-Two in the No Longer New Abnormal
Have you ever done something that makes you so happy you can feel the sadness below the surface? That is exactly what I’m experiencing now. I went for a run. The weather is beautiful in New York City. Perfect for a run. The sun was tucked under the clouds so that I could see a gleam, but I didn’t have to shade my eyes. East End Avenue, right by the water, was free of traffic so that I could soften my steps with Asphalt rather than pounding the concrete pavement. I was happy to get out after too long a break from running. I didn’t overdo it. I went as far as I could while respecting my limitations. All was good. Yet, while I felt gratitude and joy, I also felt heavy hearted. There is much in the world that saddens me. I see no easy fixes. And, too many are struggling and even suffering due to dehumanizing beliefs, powerful weather forces, war, bullying, and judgement with righteousness. Need I go on?
Marilyn Maye, Week Forty-One in the No Longer New Abnormal
Marilyn Maye is a legend. Perhaps you haven’t heard of her? She is a 92-year-old cabaret singer who gives her audiences stylized singing and beautiful arrangements of standards. I had been meaning to see her for years and it finally happened this past week. A dear friend and I came to see her at 54 Below, the storied cabaret underneath the Studio 54 Theater. Marilyn’s first album came out in 1965. She appeared on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson more than any other singer, 76 times. I could go on, but you can easily look her up.
Fourth Quarter, Week Forty in the No Longer New Abnormal
We are entering the last quarter of 2024. I feel like I’m rushing to accomplish what I had intended this year. Some things take longer than others. I had hoped I would have been able to promote my book more, but I had so much to learn. And some of the promotion is not for me. Given it isn’t what I had imagined, it’s important that I am grateful for what I could do. I am grateful for all those who supported me and the book. And, I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learned thus far, like the fact that I prefer smaller discussions to larger presentations. And that I don’t enjoy marketing, nor have I ever enjoyed it. Sharing something freely and needing to sell something are very different.
A Day Trip Downtown, Week Thirty-None in the No Longer New Abnormal
