'The more things change, the more they remain the same'. This adage is never more true than around the Christmas season when children, on the cusp of discovering awareness ask their parents, "Does Santa Claus really exist?"

Eight-year old Virginia O'Hanlon asked that question of her father and not knowing how to answer he suggested she ask someone wiser than he.

Her simple question...

Are we killing the American Dream?

Those who chronicle their life in these United States in multiples of decades rather than the post-internet era well remember being taught that the American Dream was a spouse, a good job, a house with a white picket fence and 2.33 children. Certainly an idyllic vision for many and the basis of variation for others.

As the years pass however the truth slowly reveals itself until one day, with the stark clarity of a blue...

Deep down inside, where we jealously guard our true feelings and speak of them only to ourselves in times of loneliness, emotional turmoil or great sadness, friends are what we covet. The need for a sympathetic ear, a nod of understanding, a voice of reason and enlightenment to a path of guidance are gifts that a true friend can provide and are as vital to our well being as the air we breath.

Some are fortunate, they are blessed...