Being an academic is a lot like surfing. On the surface, it may seem that the ultimate goal, whether it’s catching waves or producing groundbreaking research, should be simple and enjoyable. But, as any surfer or academic knows, the joy of the craft is often…
A Summer of Unfulfilled Longing When I moved to O‘ahu in August, returning to the island where I was born, I carried the excitement of rediscovering my roots and immersing myself in the rhythm of the ocean. But by December, I had surfed only once,…
I found some plants on the discount rack, brought them home, and propagated them to create a plant family. The plants responded by producing one flower, then another, and then another. They seem to be thriving. Changing environments can greatly impact wellness. For the past…
It’s a morning of mourning. Today, I feel less anger and more hurt. The election has left me grappling with a heavy sense of loss, and the words of The New York Times capture the gravity of this moment: “Four years after being impeached for his role…
A Struggle to Understand Trump’s Appeal I’m struggling to understand how nearly half of Americans could support Trump. Watching the Dixville Notch, New Hampshire vote, the first official vote of the election, I was stunned to see Trump receive 50% of the votes. I scrutinized…
As a therapist and assistant professor specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, I’ve had the privilege of helping many couples and families navigate the complexities of their relationships. One of the most common challenges I see is the cycle of defensive criticism, where individuals feel…
