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I was pleasantly surprised when my ophthalmologist told me I could forsake my expensive prescription lenses and wear 2.5 magnifying glasses for most situations. Then I discovered that TJ Maxx and other bargain outlets sell three pairs of fashionable magnifiers for $10! This allows me to have glasses in all the places in my apartment where I need them: one in each bathroom, one for the kitchen counter, one for the table next to the TV remote, and one for my desk. Plus the one that travels with me in my purse. It echoes the old housekeeping mantra: A place for everything and everything in its place.

And I am often surprised to discover that more than one pair has migrated from its assigned space to another. How did four pairs of glasses get to my bedside table? Why are six of them clustered around my kitchen counter? Luckily, there’s always that extra pair in my purse.

Separate from being amused at this discovery, it reminds me of the myriad unconscious motivations and behaviors that affect my life. I relegate this recognition to my often-used summary statement: “It’s a mystery!”

And I am happy that what we share every month is not mysterious but reliably leads to good interactions and learning.

Weighing Our Words, this month’s essay, focuses on the importance of what I choose to say and how I choose to say it. It dovetails well with our What I Learned essay by Wendy Pender, who lives with the physical need to monitor every word she says.

May this month bring many reminders of all we have to be thankful for.
Rebecca