I’ve been meaning to quit smoking. The attempts started about six months ago. I was in Nepal, carefree and smoker-friendly. (Traveling to other countries and exploring new places always seem a bit more adventurous when you smoke but don’t ask me why.) A friend of mine, who takes his actions seriously and lives about as straight as an arrow, desperately wanted me to quit this filthy little habit. He said, “Heather, if I smoke a cigarette will you quit?” And I whimsically said “yes.” He smoked, I laughed, and then I broke the promise that night.

I had to do it. I analyzed, thought out numerous possibilities and arrived at a place of complete desperation. Facing a dwindling bank account and increasing college debt, I swallowed every ounce of pride and did it.

I took a job at Wal-Mart. Read More

Work and joy. RELEVANT looks at the two co-existing. Read More