Author: Iris Ruth Pastor

National Cancer Awareness month is February. Hard not to be aware. Who among us has not been touched by cancer – invading our own bodies or those whom we love and adore? Ever since my father-in-law was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer almost 25 years ago, I have been searching my brain trying to come up with some Continue reading

Just last week a good buddy and I were discussing our binge-watching habits. His favorite show to binge on is “Expanse” – describing it as a cross between “Game of Thrones” and “Star Wars.” “Geez,” I texted back, “Not my taste – I’m sticking with ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.’” He was not surprised. “You remind Continue reading

I celebrate Valentine’s Day gleefully and joyously – but not because of love, romance and flowers. I celebrate this day as a day of reclaiming myself and revitalizing my spirit – of  freeing myself from a continual and long period of self-destruction and dysfunction – mired in a toxic relationship. Eight years ago today – Continue reading

Valentine’s Day is upon us. And according to a fun fact gleaned from the Internet, most of those perky red cards splashed with hearts are not sent to lovers, but to teachers, children and mothers. However, when I think of Valentine’s Day, I don’t think of a bespectacled professor, an adorable towheaded toddler or a patient, kind Continue reading

I don’t follow sports avidly, but Kobe Bryant was and is a household name – and his untimely death and that of his daughter’s and the other passengers on that ill-fated helicopter ride – are cruel reminders of life’s capricious nature. I recently downloaded the app Calm. This app guides you in meditation, offers an Continue reading