Invisibles at Work, Take a Bow!
Source: Next Avenue
Many talented people do their jobs so well that they are almost invisible. Find out who these workers are and why they derive more satisfaction from their work than from fame or money.
Culture & Society
About the Author: Kao Kalia Yang
Source: Coffee House Press
What are the hopes and fears someone has when she writes a book about her culture and family? In this interview, the author of The Latehomecomer discusses this question and more.
On the Bard’s birthday, is Shakespeare still relevant?
Source: The Washington Post
How can Shakespeare still be relevant in the age of the smartphone? Alexandra Petri takes a light-hearted view in this opinion piece.
How Writing Changed the World
Source: LiveScience
It’s no exaggeration to say that the advent of writing changed everything for humans. Here’s a look at some of the key shifts in history that resulted from those first scratches on clay tablets.
Are decisions made in groups better than decisions made alone?
Source: How Stuff Works
When you have to make an important decision, what do you do? Sometimes two heads are better than one, and sometimes they are worse. Find out how working in a group to make a decision can affect the outcome.
Syrians Speak Out Through Their Art
Source: Milwaukee Public Radio
Civil war has torn the country of Syria apart for years. As the government and opposition forces fight, many civilians have been caught in the middle. Some artists are using their work to tell the world about the experiences of ordinary Syrians in this conflict.
Juneteenth: A New Birth of Freedom
Source: Smithsonian Magazine
Have you ever heard of Juneteenth? On June 19, 1865, almost two and a half years after President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, word finally reached Texas that the Civil War was over and that any slaves were free. Learn more about this celebration of freedom.
How to Improve Communication with Your Parents
Source: Our Everyday Life
Do you have a hard time talking with your parents? Check out these four steps to better communication.
5 Ways to Listen Better
Source: TED
What conflicts can you think of that happened because someone simply didn’t listen? People who tune out others’ ideas or hear only what they want or expect to hear can’t understand others or the world around them. In this TED Talk, sound expert Julian Treasure provides five tips for conscious, careful listening.
Letters Of Heartbreak Find Some Love In Verona, Italy
Source: NPR
For years, heartbroken people have been sending letters to the city of Verona addressed to Juliet. In the 1990s, the city of Verona created the Juliet Club to deal with all the letters. Read the article, and then listen to the full story.