Gratitude is a quality that some of us work to cultivate, and to others it comes more naturally. The author of this article muses about gratitude in our culture, and how “Gratitude happens when some kindness exceeds expectations.” The author discusses dispositional gratitude in which some people’s personality tends to find appreciation in the ordinary experiences of daily living.

“The Structure of Gratitude” in the New York Times by David Brooks

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/28/opinion/david-brooks-the-structure-of-gratitude.html?action=click&pgtype=Homepage&region=CColumn&module=MostEmailed&version=Full&src=me&WT.nav=MostEmailed&_r=0

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The great 19^th century writer and environmentalist John Muir once said Yosemite Valley was his cathedral, his place of worship.  It was a place he can walk in silence and be at peace with himself. 

He publicized the importance of “wild places” as he recognized the more America became an industrialized nation, the more we were losing touch with those spaces. Now, over a hundred and forty years after he first entered Yosemite Valley, there is research as to why we need those places even more so today.  ...

Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.

- Judy Garland

Despite increased awareness and acceptance, there continues to be stigma associated with seeking help from mental health professionals. Mental health screening and treatment can greatly improve quality of life and there is no reason that anyone should feel uncomfortable seeking treatment. However, it is not always easy to tell if you or a loved one is simply having a difficult time or is in need of professional help. The following information can help you decide if you should consider seeking profession help.

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The time is always right to do what is right.

-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.          

One of the great comedians able to point out the satire in our everyday lives is Jerry Seinfeld.  The Seinfeld Show, once described as ‘a show about nothing’, made America laugh weekly with its saucy and irreverent look at everyday life for 9 seasons.  The show launched Jerry to stardom, making him one of the most beloved comics of the times.  How did he cope with the enormous pressure of the show’s success?  The link to the article below is a reminder to not take ourselves so seriously, even when under immense pressure. 

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Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

- John F. Kennedy

As the school year approaches it is very common for children to begin to have anxiety about returning to school. It is important to remember that anxiety in children often looks different than it does in adults. You may find yourself wondering why your usually obedient 10 year old is suddenly talking back and refusing to do things you ask. You may find that your kindergartener has started to suck her thumb again.

It is very typical to see changes in behaviors in school age children before the start of the...

To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

A good night’s sleep remains elusive for many of us. In this article, the author explores the research behind Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication approaches to insomnia.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/09/upshot/the-evidence-points-to-a-better-way-to-fight-insomnia.html?mabReward=A6&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&region=CColumn&module=Recommendation&src=rechp&WT.nav=RecEngine&_r=1

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