Want to understand the power of a good idea, implemented with passion, to create a better future for thousands of young people? A visit to the Math & Science Academy, one of the Perspectives Charter Schools on the South Side of Chicago, will make it easy for you.
Why taking a year off, during or before college, might offer the greatest life lessons. Meet Zach Hofeld. Six-foot-two, Hollywood handsome and ripped (as the girls say), he’s sitting at an outdoor table in downtown Winnetka discussing the past year of his life. “I always equated taking a gap year with a negative,” he […]
Throughout the 2004 Olympics in Athens, the media constantly sought her analysis of Michael’s decisions and performances. Debbie consistently responded with unfailing praise and support, offering phrases like: “Isn’t Mike wonderful? I am so proud of him!” No critical assessment of any kind was ever given; Debbie sat smiling and cheering in the stands […]
Many years ago, I promised my husband that I would learn to play golf, which would be a good activity for us in our golden years. I may have lied. My occasional forays onto golf courses have proven to be such torture that I just can’t see how the sport will ever be good for […]
What is an interview but a conversation? What is a conversation but a game?
I love a challenge. And recently, Judy Fenton, director of education at The Art Center in Highland Park, issued an interesting one for Make It Better. “You would not believe how art makes a real difference in people’s lives,” Fenton gushed over the phone. “Please come next Wednesday morning and I’ll prove it.” […]
Balance. Rediscovering it always Makes It Better. Many known, and some mysterious, routes to restoring balance exist. At least one should work for me … maybe … I hope. Which should I try first? Since it’s 5 a.m. and freezing, I vow to start with meditation—horizontal meditation, under my warm, soft covers. And prayer […]
Don’t be deceived by their appearance of effortless elegance.
What didn’t I do? What did I miss? the mother silently despairs, as she surveys the circle of experts seated in her child’s therapist’s office. Why do we need all of this help? Stomach churning, she slumps back, trying to disappear into the chintz loveseat behind her husband. The tears leak out as she […]
She’s not a runner, but when an orphan disease struck her son, Jacque DenUyl ran for the cure.
