One Hen, Two Ducks—The Power of Play
We underestimate the power of play. Play is an essential human activity. Play promotes growth, development, and well-being...
The Wonders of the Savant Brain
I have long been fascinated by the highly specialized virtuosity of people once called “idiot savants.” The neurological...
Balancing Our Two Brains
In a previous article (3rd Act Magazine Fall 2020 issue), I expressed newfound optimism that cultural evolution is nudging...
Blinded by the White Podcast
Michael Patterson talks with 3rd Act Magazine publisher and editor, Victoria Starr Marshall, about her essay “Blinded by...
Finding Hope in 2020
Oddly enough, I’m finding cause for optimism amid the turmoil and trauma of 2020. I have a new-found optimism that the...
The Call to Adventure
Using Myth to Navigate Late-Life Transitions Dick lay in bed and wondered why he should get up. At 82, he had recently...
How’s Your Funny Bone?
The author E.B. White once commented that “humor can be dissected, as a frog can, but the thing dies in the process.”...
Mature Creativity: The powerful balance between novelty and routine
I recall a conversation I had with a very creative friend. He worked at a highly respected television production company,...
A Walk in the Park, the Benefits of Nature
Nature offers benefits to people of all ages Griffith Park, an oasis in the sprawling Los Angeles metropolis, is where I...
Set a Goal of Happiness for Your Longer Life
In Greek mythology, Eos, goddess of the dawn, fell in love with a mortal man, Tithonus. Eos begged Zeus to grant Tithonus...
