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A Grain of Salt Posts

You’re My Favorite

The exchange would go like this. My father and I would be somewhere, and in a moment of our banter, he would pause to say, you know Mary, You’re my favorite. My dad’s announcement was usually met with some playful opposition. Dad, you mean I am your favorite daughter in the room with you now? I had, after all, three other well-accomplished and beautiful sisters. So, I had to limit the terms. You’re my favorite?…

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The Power of Caring

A Lesson Learned Over 20 Years In the course of my two-decade journey with the Institute for Cultural Communicators, there’s a profound life lesson that has consistently resonated with me. Before speaking to an audience of many or one, I often stop and remind myself, even repeating this saying. I’m eager to share this insight with you, urging you to open yourself to an idea that, while perhaps familiar, may hold more profound significance than…

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I will follow

It is easy to think we are one way until something happens, and we see ourselves in a clear and new light. During a cold February, I went on a Caribbean cruise with my adult son, Andrew. He was leaving one job and had a short break before the new job began. I was on a month-long sabbatical. While he was hoping to include other family members, it was a case that those who had…

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Maybe, I Don’t Know.

Back when my oldest kids were navigating the world of middle school, physical fitness was essential to our education. Soccer matches were a regular affair, and my husband, Gary, often led hikes and runs for those old enough. Meanwhile, I played a role in organizing the annual President’s Physical Fitness test. While some of my children excelled in this physically active environment, others faced challenges. Our family, like any other, showcased diverse builds. One of…

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The Power of a New Start

Happy New Year! Are you feeling the fresh start effect? The momentum comes from a turn of the calendar – like a new year, a new month, a new week, and a new day! I have spent the last fifteen years helping students, parents, teachers, and volunteers enter a new season with a clear vision and some time to consider both professional and personal goals that will help them have their best year. Launch your…

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