Articles

HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A HUGE, two-ton elephant walking resignedly in a small circle, constrained only by a thin stick and flimsy rope tied to his ankle—and wondered why the elephant didn't just walk off? Why would he accept such a lot in life? I came across an article in the September 19, 2004, issue of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin that described how baby elephants that are to be used as working animals are trained. The article, "Don't be a dumbo," describes how a trainer fastens a heavy manacle and chain to the elephant's leg, securing the other end of the chain to a metal stake driven deep into the ground.

DAILY NEWS COVERAGE OF THE WAR IN IRAQ, or the instances of bombings in places such as England or Spain, as well as vehement debates among our political leaders about the best way to respond to terrorism, can all leave us feeling like helpless bystanders to a tragic world drama. We can also be drawn into heated arguments with colleagues over political choices.

WHILE INTERNING AS A COLLEGE STUDENT with an aerospace company, I had the task of implementing a design fix for a satellite. The rest of the engineering team wanted to move on to more exciting projects, but the job left to me was probably too important and complex to have been given to me, a novice.

BORN OUT OF THE POTATO FIELDS OF LONG ISLAND just after World War II, Levittown, New York, became one of the first planned suburban communities of tract housing in the United States. With the establishment of the new town, Levittown's first "pioneers," many of them war veterans, decided to set up life out in the country—30 miles east of New York City.

1. Bob Press believes that when we focus on the spiritual nature of ourselves and others, we're playing a significant role in helping to end terrorism.

A SMALL WHITE PANEL TRUCK crossed the overpass above the highway we were traveling on—just when I needed it. Self-condemnation had been engulfing me as I tried in vain to get us to our destination.

During my freshman year of college, I decided to try a mixed drink and see what all the fuss was about. I don't really know what made me want to start drinking and partying with my friends.

My sense of disorientation reached a breaking point after classes began. AS SOON AS I RECEIVED MY ACCEPTANCE letter to college, I began to imagine what my first semester would be like.

IN MY YOUTH, my parents had many financial ups and downs. I remember clearly the mental atmosphere in our home during the difficult times.

WHILE I WRITE THIS ARTICLE, I'm on a plane from Paris to the US for an exciting new work adventure. As an international financial advisor, I've come a long way from my childhood dreams of being an actress someday.