The other day I was lecturing on the art of happiness and the importance of forgiveness during the college class we’re teaching when one of our students stopped me cold. I had been going on at some length about how we’ve all been “done wrong” somewhere along the way by somebody, be it a parent,…
Lessons from the Bug
The other day I was getting ready for work when I heard a persistent flapping noise from the next room and finally went to investigate. A giant flying bug with long graceful legs was beating frantically against the windowpane, trying to find a way out. (One of the advantages of living in the Bay area…
Finding the Gifts
OK, I admit it. I am an incorrigible optimist. My continuing belief is that not only is the glass half full, there’s someone around the next corner with a pitcher, waiting to fill it up the rest of the way. Which is not always an easy attitude for people around you. My most recent example:…
Everyday Miracles: Growing Older, Growing Up
My son turned 27 not too long ago. I’m still not quite sure how that happened, since it still feels as if I was burping him just a couple of weeks ago. How can he possibly be so grown up already? When I look into the face of this tall and handsome young man now,…
Everyday Miracles: Walking in the Woods
Nothing like staring into the trunk of a thousand-year-old tree to put the vicissitudes of your own life into perspective, as I discovered a couple of Sundays ago when I took my friend Kate for a lengthy tromp through Muir Woods. You’ve probably read about it—this ancient redwood forest a few miles north of the…
Everyday Miracles: Living in the Moment
Everyday Miracles Living in the Moment Learning to live in the moment. Now there’s a concept that can give you pause. It certainly sounds as if it’s what we should be doing without having to think about it too much, right? But actually making it happen can take some effort. One of my favorite experts…
Welcome to my world
Hi, I’m Gail Harris. Welcome! Whether you’re just a few steps into the journey, or well along your own spiritual path, I am so glad you are here. Wherever you are, whatever’s on your mind, whether you’re looking for information or inspiration, or both, it’s my pleasure to help you. I’ve been a journalist for…