Be-Think [Please visit BeThink.org]

Sex Education; Abstinence or Advancing Knowledge? ©

The sight of a New York Times article peaked my interest. It aroused my curiosity. This piece stimulated my psyche. Reading “Muzzling Sex Education on Anything but Abstinence,” by Samuel G. Freedman was an experience. Reflecting on this essay was the climax of my day. I found the information in this expose fascinating. Were it not so sad, this scenario would be almost humorous. It says much of today’s mores.

Mothers and Daughters; Myth and Meaning ©

Author and Linguist Deborah Tannen recently released a book titled, "You're Wearing That? Understanding Mothers and Daughters In Conversation.” In an interview with journalist, Terrence McNally, Ms. Tannen was asked of the unique relationship between mothers and daughters; the author responded as one might expect. Tannen spoke of what most consider conventional patterns of communication between the two. As I read, I realized, I could not relate.

Year ago I was an avid reader of Ms. Tannen's work; I inhaled her every word. I still think her research is infinitely valid and valuable; however, only for a select few. The few may be the majority; they are just not I. I suspect my own sisters might connect to the conclusions Linguist Tannen offers on the subject of mother daughter interactions. Still, I do not.