Physical expressions of affection are necessary to build care, trust, and security — Growing up in India, physical touch and public displays of affection (PDA) were not commonplace. …

Especially when the negative memories take over the positive ones — After going through a divorce I often wonder what was it about this person that was attractive in the first place, what was it that made me fall in love. Because by the time we reach the stage of a divorce, the person becomes unrecognizable. Almost like a stranger! I…

Are you ready to be in a relationship? — Ending my marriage was one of the toughest decisions I had to make in my life. It was almost ten years in the making, ten years of questioning myself before I was ready to make the move. Coming out of that marriage felt freeing. I was able to breathe again…

Such a confusing time for both parents and children — Recently a writer on Medium recommended Jane Isay’s book. I wanted to better understand my relationship with my mother but came away with a lot more learning about so many aspects of raising teenagers. I have an 18-year-old home for the summer after finishing her first year of college and…

Most importantly for your own safety — I am in my second year of owning an electrical vehicle (EV) and absolutely love it! I am not even a car person as I am happy just having a vehicle to take me from point A to point B. But the idea of low emissions, the quiet engine, the…

Cultural awareness is a prerequisite for cultural sensitivity — When I first landed in the United States as a graduate student in the late 90s and wanted to wear an Indian outfit, my brother told me that people in America do not welcome public displays of culture. That thought stayed with me as I chose when and where I…

It’s graduation season as college graduates prepare to walk up on stage to receive their degrees at Commencement. Here are my closing remarks for students graduating from their teacher preparation programs: No one in this room doubts whether you can write an effective lesson plan or manage student behaviors. You…

Age, time, and experience certainly help — Dating after divorce is definitely not a walk in the park for many of us who were in a marriage that lasted the major part of our adult lives. First healing from the loss of the promise of a “forever together” with someone I met when was 18 years of…

Racism and microaggressions are everywhere — If you live (or have lived ) outside the United States of America or have had the need to visit a U. S. Embassy or Consulate abroad, then you will be very familiar with what I am about to describe. The building itself is enclosed by tall compound walls that…