I began a new practice after my birthday a few months ago. I filled a green bowl with 52 marbles. Each week I move one marble into a smaller white one. Taking a pause each week to reflect is another way to feel the texture of life – another version of “live one day at a time.”

A picture of this smaller bowl is the avatar that shows up by my comments here on The Myeloma Beacon. It is also …

More and more reports have been in the news about the rising number of people living alone in America and other Western countries.

According to Eric Klinenberg’s research in his book, “Going Solo,” 28 percent of all American households and one in ten people over age 65 live alone, more than ever before in history.

While the circumstances leading to this lifestyle vary, the impact is significant for those diagnosed with multiple myeloma, as well as their circle of family …

We do not choose chronic illness – it chooses us. Being tapped on the shoulder by multiple myeloma is an invitation into a deeper experience of life, whether we like it or not.

Expressive writing is a useful practice for mining the depths of what is inside. Support groups frequently draw upon writing exercises, and studies have found that writing actually promotes true healing.

For those who want to use writing practice for self-discovery, I recommend a simple exercise beginning …

The month of March has been a special one in my part of the country due to the unexpected record-breaking warm temperatures. This is also my birthday month during the year I turn sixty, now fondly referred to as my “sea of sixty.”

Facing the uncharted waters of multiple myeloma at age fifty-one left me unable to visualize this far-off decade. Looking ahead required imagining too many unknowns.

Two weeks ago when I brushed snow from my windshield, I also …

I recently watched a video talk by social work research professor Brené Brown about her study of “the power of vulnerability.” It turns out that people who are most fulfilled approach their lives with “wholeheartedness.” The courage to be imperfect and admit vulnerability leads to greater wellbeing.

Living with multiple myeloma is an excellent place to experience vulnerability, as being diagnosed with this disease puts a damper on any sort of idealized self-image — the idea of “perfect health.”

There …

The Chinese New Year arrives this week. A culture with so much impact on the world can hardly be ignored. “The Year of the Dragon” suggests an energetic shift on the planet. The protective and powerful dragon symbolizes wisdom and prosperity. Generous, benevolent, and lucky, the dragon can transform into any type of creature and overcome all challenges.

Taming and transforming the multiple myeloma beast takes more than a dragon, but inspiration helps. Sometimes the dreams that occur during sleep …

The week between Christmas and New Year is a time to appreciate, give, and celebrate. It is also a good time for reflection.

I imagine what direction my own life will take during 2012. What do I want? What can I do?

I wonder about the people who have just received a diagnosis for multiple myeloma and others who remain in treatment. I wonder about people suffering from a variety of other ailments, as many of my friends are.

People …