The Harvard Psychedelic Club is Don Lattin’s new book about “How Timothy Leary, Ram Dass, Huston Smith, and Andrew Weil killed the fifties and ushered in a New Age for America.”

That is the neat and tidy synopsis from the cover of the book. The story, however, was intricate and colorful and incredible and bursting with so much fascinating juiciness throughout, it could barely be contained.

I cannot tell you if YOU will like this book, but I CAN tell you I couldn’t get enough of it. I read it cover to cover (which is a rarity these days) with pencil in hand to underline, highlight, and scribble in the margins. I didn’t feel like I was reading it, though… I felt like I was living it. I was transported to a different time and place (like when I listen to John Lennon.)

Posted in Reviews, addictions 57 Comments »

Obstacles are tricky things…

If we think of someone pursuing a noble goal, like finding a cure for cancer, or trying for Olympic gold, then obstacles are merely tests of determination. Overcoming them shows commitment, resourcefulness, and an undeterred sense of purpose. If you focus on your goal, you can find a way around any challenge or complication.

On the other hand, if we consider a less than noble goal, obstacles take on a whole new dimension. For instance, if the objective is to feed an addiction to drugs, alcohol, gambling, food, online socializing, or the thrill of an illicit affair, the obstacles serve as a warning for you to stop, think, prioritize, and choose wisely.

Posted in addictions, bad habits, choices, compulsions, guilt No Comments »

I am not a health-nut, by any stretch of the imagination, and I do not come from a family with “skinny” genes. Let’s be clear about how much I dislike exercise: I would rather go to the dentist than to the gym; and keep in mind, I had my orthodontic work done in a third world country in the early 80’s, when anesthesia was a luxury few could afford.

It should also be noted that I love, love, love some not-so-slimming foods. If I thought I could get away with it, I would eat nothing but these three things:

• Breads – baguettes, pastries, bagels, tortillas, crackers, etc.
• Cheeses – preferably melted on the breads!

Posted in addictions, bad habits, choices, needs 6 Comments »