While walking along the shores of Lake Erie last weekend, my friend Jim shared an unusual conversation he overheard that morning. It involved a guy talking to his dog: reassuring him about getting water, informing him about the day’s agenda, and venting some personal frustrations. I laughed. It sounded funny. But then I remembered how I use to talk to … Read More
No Need for Walls. Build Better Boundaries.
We’ve all been there. We’re having a conversation, waiting in line, or mingling with a group, when suddenly, the stranger, acquaintance, or friend we’ve been standing next to gets too close. It feels awkward, uncomfortable, even intrusive. And while we don’t say anything, we take a few steps back, avert our gaze, or move to another side of the room. … Read More
Sometimes Soft Skills Can Be Hard
There is something even more valuable to civilization than wisdom. And that is character. H.L. Mencken Between early spring and late fall, you will often find me riding my bike along the trails and roads around northeast Ohio. And regardless of when, where, or with whom I’m riding, it’s not uncommon to encounter an angry motorist. Sometimes they blast their … Read More