Warning: Mushiness Ahead

Group photo of the walkers who stayed till the end.

Anthropologist Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

On October 22 in Tower Grove Park, a small group of thoughtful, committed, and passionate people gathered together to walk on behalf of an issue that, for many people, is difficult to care about, let alone stand up for… an issue that is too often ignored, marginalized, or even mocked… an issue that, indeed, can change the world. The issue? Compassion for farm animals. The event? The 2011 St. Louis Walk for Farm Animals.

On Religion

I have a very close friend with whom I do not see eye-to-eye on religion. However, it’s one of the most interesting topics we discuss, and these discussions always leave me with even more respect for her than before the talks.

I wonder why religion is considered off-limits to so many people. I wonder why we let it cause damaging arguments. I wonder if we should hold ourselves to a higher standard than that, so that we can maturely discuss a topic that is potentially the most important one we’ll ever face.

Dancing, Staring, and Double-Dog Daring

I’ve been a student of improv since December 2010, and it has quickly become one of my favorite activities. I have taken a number of awesome classes with The Improv Trick on Cherokee Street in St. Louis, and I recently started in a level one class with The Improv Shop above the Tin Can on Locust. I love every part of this class, taught by the awesome Kevin McKernan, but there are two particular activities that really stand out for me. I’ll tell you about each of them, and then I’ll tell you why I think I enjoyed them so much. And, to be honest, I will then attempt to convince you to take an improv class (complete with a very intimidating double-dog dare).

Shortest Blog Post You’ve Ever Read

This woman is amazing.

Really Bummed Out by a Really Great Workshop

I’m currently in Orlando, Fla. at the PRSA International Conference. Monday afternoon I attended a workshop called, “The Personal Branding Project: Crafting Your Identity.” Presenters Cyndee Woolley and Jessica Macera talked about the importance of crafting your own personal brand, including developing and working toward goals for your life. It was a really great workshop.

And it really bummed me out.

A New Word Learned and a New Issue for Which to Blame My Parents

I learned a new word today: neophile. According to Wikipedia (I know, I know), a neophile is a person with “a strong affinity for novelty.” In other words, “neophile” is the word I’ve been looking for to describe my unexplained adoration for all new things.