Finding the Gold in “Tough” Neighborhoods
To transform economically and socially depressed areas into healthy, vibrant communities, we have to focus on their strengths and trust residents to solve their own problems.
Health & Happiness
Too Much Stuff in Your Life? 7 Ways to Turn it Around
From sharing to repairing, the inspiration you need to lighten your load.
The Radical Homemaker’s Guide to Sex Talks
Living a happy life in love is the most important sexual education we can give our kids.
How We Went Back to School, Macklemore Style
For a more sustainable start to the school year, just follow the Seattle-based rapper to that thrift store down the road.
Want to Change the World (and Not Get Burnt Out)? Start with Your Neighborhood
Starting the process of change in a place you know well makes it more doable and fun.
When You’ve Built a Life of Joys, the Biggest Challenge Is Choosing
I've built a life filled with work I love. But the challenge of choosing among competing joys is very real.
The Harmonies in This John Denver Cover Will Make You Stop Whatever You’re Doing and Just Listen
Singer-songwriters Brett Dennen and Milow make a strong case for the lasting beauty of "Annie's Song" by John Denver.
“Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth” Is as Beautiful Visually as It Is Spiritually
Filmmaker Pratibha Parmar's presentation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning author's life will inspire you.
The Healing Journey of a Daughter of Slavery and a Son of the Slave Trade
Why an African American marketing consultant and a white writer took a journey to explore the effects of slavery, racism, and privilege.
Putting My Kids’ Art in the Trash: How I Got Past the Guilt
It feels bad to throw away the crayon drawings and unfinished projects. But the memories stored there can never really be lost.
A Piazza on Every Block: How DIY Placemaking Is Transforming Communities
Americans who鈥檝e enjoyed the vibrant public places of Europe and Latin America are bringing the idea back to the cities and towns of the U.S.
The Unexpected Gifts of Photographing Mandela, Tutu, and the Dalai Lama
Photographer Jane Feldman on earning the trust of beloved world leaders鈥攁nd capturing their laughter.
How a 鈥淒og Person鈥� Learned to Love a Neighbor鈥檚 Kid
I never expected to develop such a strong connection with another person鈥檚 child. But once it happened, I had to learn how to let her go.
Joining a Rural Community: Why It Takes Years to Be Accepted
Country people have a reputation for viewing outsiders with skepticism. But it turns out they have good reasons for doing that.
Slave and Slaveholder Descendants Break Free of History’s Trauma鈥擳ogether
Responding to past traumas like slavery and acts of terrorism can heal us鈥攁nd future generations.
How to Design Our Neighborhoods for Happiness
When we share our yards, sidewalks, and other common spaces, we find a greater sense of belonging and connection to those around us.
A Marathon Runner鈥檚 Lessons for a Saner Civilization
Long-distance running demands that athletes pace themselves and keep the future in mind. Might they have something to teach those who want to create a sustainable society?
It Takes Time: Why Sustainable Farming Can鈥檛 Be Rushed
Maybe there鈥檚 something deeper to the stereotype of old-school farmers as plodding, slow-moving people.
Florida Occupation Digs in after Meeting with Governor Scott Turns Sour
The association says it will bring in retired members in an effort to defuse tensions between young occupiers and capitol police.
Dar Williams: Why the Music of Protest Is Still Worth Defending
We can鈥檛 change the world if we can鈥檛 even sing together鈥攁 star folk singer on what happens if political music dies.
What Lipstick and High Heels Taught Me About Friendship
Heather and I were like oil and water. We made polite conversation but couldn鈥檛 find a single thing in common. But slowly over time, a friendship has grown.
100 Young Black Activists Respond to George Zimmerman鈥檚 Acquittal
The statement, by the Black Youth Project, conveys profound sorrow along with a commitment to hold on to hope.
Want Justice for Trayvon? Start by Turning to Your Neighbors
Your community is the perfect place to begin healing the wounds of racism.
How to See Stars Like Your Ancestors Did
We could all see the sky as our ancestors once saw it just by turning off the lights, according to the International Dark Sky Association.
Stay Weird or Fit In? It鈥檚 Your Kid鈥檚 Decision
Wearing a sunhat and a cape because you want to is innocence. Doing so when you know others don鈥檛 like it is bravery.
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