It’s impossible to overestimate the joy that a simple act of kindness can bring to someone else’s life. Just a smile from you can help someone else regain the composure they need to face the day ahead with new motivation and optimism. As a result, you can experience “the helper’s high,” a bounce-back effect that … Read more

One of my favorite professors once said that it’s impossible to overinterpret a poem — a type of literary analysis called close reading. As I heard him say those words, I was taken aback with a matter-of-factly, arrogant naiveté of a complete beginner in poetry. To my defense, my reaction was far from uncommon — … Read more

After moving to a new place, I’m occasionally blessed to observe a stray cat lurking about in the yard. I don’t know where it comes from, its real name, and whether it cares that I care, all I know is that this adorable creature warms my heart and brings smile to my face. I call … Read more

Over the past few days, I’ve been reading The Analects by Confucius. The reason I love this book is its ability to constantly remind us how to live a good life. In particular, I would like to share one key principle that has the power to improve our personal and professional relationships. But to be … Read more