Why “What Do You Do?” Isn’t Simple

by juliehartig | Mar, 2026 | Reflections | Personal Essays on Meaning, Identity, and Care

Recently, at a luncheon, I sat next to a retired man who lived in a 50+ facility. He raved about the organized activities, his found community, and the ease of everyday life. Then he asked, “What do you do?” I told him I was editing my first manuscript. When pressed...

Introducing The Boundary Reset: Choosing Limits in an Unrelenting Moment

by juliehartig | Jan, 2026 | Reflections | Personal Essays on Meaning, Identity, and Care

It has been difficult to breathe lately. Each day brings more news of corruption and destruction of social norms. Even when we are not directly affected, we feel it in our bodies. A low-grade anxiety that feeds outrage … and our exhaustion. Concentration erodes....

Holiday Gift Guide for Readers and Writers in Your Life

by juliehartig | Nov, 2025 | Reflections | Personal Essays on Meaning, Identity, and Care

This holiday gift guide is built entirely on personal recommendation. I don’t earn income from these books or products, and if I ever include affiliate links in the future, I’ll be explicit—and any proceeds would be donated to libraries or charitable organizations....

When Did We Become Cowards? Book Bans and Censorship

by juliehartig | Sep, 2025 | Reflections | Personal Essays on Meaning, Identity, and Care

Growing up, cowardice and hypocrisy were scorned; now, they seem to be the norm. Power of Words and Ideas Two quotes come to mind on this topic. Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me. The pen is mightier than the sword. Both are true and...

Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Perspective on Pursuing Life Goals

by juliehartig | Mar, 2025 | Reflections | Personal Essays on Meaning, Identity, and Care

The Story of Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing Why Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing? I traveled around New Zealand in February and March and hopped down to Melbourne for a few days during an extended visit with my daughter. Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing was...

Breaking Free: When it’s Time to Try Something New

by juliehartig | Nov, 2024 | Reflections | Personal Essays on Meaning, Identity, and Care

A Thanksgiving Story About Rethinking Family Traditions I have always cherished traditions—birthday cakes, coloring eggs, the vibrant tapestry of autumn leaves, and Christmas lights that bring hope to the darkness. These yearly milestones spice up the year with...