Articles

The Definition of Insanity is…

They say the definition of insanity is doing something over and over again and expecting a different outcome.  Except that it isn’t.  Insanity is defined as, “Insanity.  n.  mental illness of such a severe nature that a person cannot distinguish fantasy from reality, cannot conduct her/his affairs due to psychosis, or is subject to uncontrollable impulsive behavior.” It is curious… Read more »

Fun Out of the Sun

Summer is a wonderful time of year—long, sun-drenched days, iced drinks, and hanging out in the great outdoors.  From taking in a stunning view while quaffing craft beer and wine to enjoying an afternoon siesta in a hammock, life slows down and can feel pretty darn good.  The intensity of hitting the books may slow… Read more »

Eight Reasons to Have a Pet Budgie

Since starting to adopt stray budgies into my home three years ago, I have had the blessing of witnessing the growth of these feathery creatures over time, including, recently, the death of a beloved budgie as well as the birth of eight newborns chicks.  Their existence has provided me with much joy and taught me… Read more »

Editorial—Less than a Third

Last Friday, shortly after I completed my editorial, the Alberta Government announced at AU’s convocation ceremonies that they would be giving Athabasca University a one-time grant of 4.9 million dollars to address its new strategic plan and upgrade its technology infrastructure.  This money is sorely needed because, though the AU campus is beautiful, as you’ll… Read more »

Look at the View from Where you Stand

Another group of students walked across the stage at Athabasca and received their degrees over the weekend.  This year I tuned in to watch one of The Voice Magazine’s own, Barb, accept her degree.  I was surprised at just how much excitement I felt, it brought back so many memories and feelings from when I… Read more »

Exploring the Great Outdoors this Summer

Many Working diligently toward a degree or upgrading your skills with university courses are worthwhile endeavors.  Nevertheless, studying and writing assignments while also working, raising children, or carrying out other obligations can become a grind.  With the longer days of summer arriving, now is the ideal time to clear off your schedule, give your brain… Read more »

Editorial—The Big Day

Congratulations to those students who’ve finished off their degree this year.  Whether you know what you’re doing next or not, you’ve achieved a milestone that you can carry with you. One that not only says you have an area of mental expertise, but also that you have been taught, hopefully, how to use your own… Read more »

Mood Music

Many years ago, I awakened to my alarm playing a sad song on the radio, unkindly reminding me of a certain ex-boyfriend.  At the time, the gloom that came over me was a forecast for the rest of the day—last-minute cancellations, spilled coffee, and more bad memories of the ex.  It got me thinking about… Read more »