Musings from my Window

Meta communication--the idea that we are communicating volumes through our facial expressions and body language, and voice tone. It is thought by some psychologists that this form of communication is acatually louder and more persuasive taht actual words. The other day, I sat down to watch TV--a rare occurance. I sat and watched a drama. I could watch for very long because the acting was absolutely HORRIBLE! The actors were saying all the right words and trying their best to convey the seriousness and gravity of the situation, thought  their character would respond, but there was a lag and delay in how their body reacted. I could tell that they were not feeling  the depth of the situation, but were merely moving to their next line. The distortion was very subtle, and if you were caught up in the show, you would probably not notice it, because you would be filling in the emotional gaps that the actors had left.  It was maddening to me. I could not stand it and had to t...

Well, my midlife crisis came to a head a few weeks ago. I had so many things planned differently this fall--teaching fourth grade. But instead I find myself here at home. Every option and plan fell through. I have struggled with finding my purpose--doing something more than the boring and mundane tasks of home. I felt chastened as I talked with my friend, Nadine at the bus stop while sending a daughter off to school. Nadine works full time while raising three very rambunctious children. While I was feeling sorry for myself to be "at home" Nadine expressed how she would give anything to be home right now raising her kids rather than going through the exhausting juggling of kids and career. I walked home feeling grateful for the opportunity to be home, but perplexed at what to do during the looming days and months ahead. I retreated to the indulgent vice of the internet. I sat on the couch. I surfed Facebook. I cleaned a few bathrooms and made a meal from time to time. I was de...