Stories

There are people who age, there are people who age positively, and then there are people who have their own unique way of aging gracefully. Mary Contrary met such a person—her remarkable neighbor Rosie, an 'old' lady who saw right through you—yes, you, with all your stereotypes about life and the elderly! This is the story of Rosie, based on a real-life event.

When you go to the theatre, do you steer clear of wearing purple? When you are about to choose some flowers for a friend, do you worry about picking the wrong ones, or does the number 17 freak you out? Well that depends on your perspective on life! Ingrid, a Dutch writer and painter living in Rome, captures the role of superstition in everyday Italian life. This is her story.

Do you feel super sensitive, smart, complex, creative, intense, curious, lonely, and misunderstood? Guest writer and psychotherapist Paula Prober introduces the "Rainforest Mind," describing individuals who feel both too much and not enough. Explore this unique perspective on life.

My Time In Ghana: During her filming trip to Ghana in the nineties, Mary Contrary, a perspectivator at heart, discovered aspects of African life which are so incredibly rich, they contrast sharply with the poverty and hardship often seen by Western visitors. This is her story.

Carmen Rucci, an author, lawyer, and critic for Japan's public media organization NHK World-Japan, shares with us her experiences in Japan, highlighting the importance of embracing the insightful Japanese view on happiness. She describes it as lighthearted, joyful, simple, restorative, and most importantly, with room for all human beliefs. This is Carmen's story.