The question is, how do we strengthen our spiritual practice of receiving grace? How do we build a heart that is open enough, empty enough, clear, and ready for grace? How do we become less distracted and more present to be awakened and loved by the many touches of grace?

Perhaps, like in a good chess game, you'll have the insight to see two or three moves ahead. But if not, don't sweat it. Just show up and take the right next step without delay. That will help keep the doubts and the internal wrestling to a minimum.

After talking with literally thousands of women, especially mothers, I can tell you - every time a woman has to badger a man to become more engaged, a little piece of her heart breaks.

How are you supposed to make merry when you're worried you might be homeless by March? Forget searching for the perfect wine to compliment your Duck a la' Orange, or debating the merits of tinsel versus popcorn strands.

Today's stepmoms might not be accused of casting spells, but talk to any first wife about her husband's new wife and you'll likely discover a bubbling cauldron of resentment.

Perhaps the recession is giving us more than just a tough lesson in fiscal responsibility. Perhaps we're also getting a lesson in gratitude.

It's odd and a bit unsettling to see your sweet daughter reflected in the eyes of men. Just as it's odd to realize that the world now looks at you in a different way.

I love television. I truly love it. I wept when TiVo was invented, because it meant I could watch even more of it. Sophisticated people claim to be ...

Why are we so willing to believe bad things about good people?

In a grand full circle moment, America's first black president will walk up steps that were built by slaves.

People say there are no atheists in a foxhole. I would also say there aren't too many atheists during an economic collapse.

Oprah's fat again, and - ahem, not to mention any names - but a few of the rest of us have porked up right along with her. America's favorite yo-yo ...

It's like a rock in the pit of your stomach, a cold clammy feeling that spreads up your gut and momentarily stops your breath. It's the awful moment...

As depressing as our collective and individual situations may be, the last thing we need to do is let our fear get the best of us. If you spend all day worried and anxious, guess who wins? The Fear.

The key to weight loss is swapping negative habits and self-talk with something more positive.

Why makes a man cheat? For the very same reason disgruntled office workers pilfer clips and people pout at family reunions: lack of appreciation.

The pressure may be subtle or it might be full-on war, but there's not a person alive who hasn't felt criticized by their in-laws. Whether it's your...

Don't you just hate it when the real you leaks out? Like that time when, after one too many sloe gin fizzes, you finally told your sister-in-law wh...

I've noticed many husbands caught completely off guard when their wife announces that she wants out. So wake up guys -- wedded bliss takes work, and counselors are cheaper than alimony.