Notes on Being Human Archives - Page 2 of 33

Small Talk: the Social Ritual We Pretend Not to Need

March 16, 2026 By Linda K Sienkiewicz

Are we really doing small talk wrong? The ads on Instagram for coaching people in conversation so you don't sound "weak"—i.g. never ask “how’s it going” or “what’s new”—make me wonder if I'm … Continue reading >>

Kegels, Kenny G, and the Curse of Bad Waiting Room Music

March 2, 2026 By Linda K Sienkiewicz

The music was worse than the dentist: Recently, I spent a half-hour doing Kegel exercises at the dentist, not to distract myself from the cleaning, but from the awful music. This wasn’t soothing … Continue reading >>

In Defense of the Wild Girl Within

February 23, 2026 By Linda K Sienkiewicz

Fictional characters and impressionable kids Author Jamie Cat Callan mused on Instagram that when you were a child you likely had favorite character in a book. Maybe you embraced a secret identity. … Continue reading >>

Art as resistance: a reminder to love

February 12, 2026 By Linda K Sienkiewicz

No more chaos, I'm exhausted: Confession: I lettered this February’s chalkboard early because I felt compelled to take January’s off the porch before the month even ended. January’s message was … Continue reading >>

A rainy day, a bookstore, and the woman who knew exactly what you needed

February 2, 2026 By Linda K Sienkiewicz

Buxton Village Books in the Outer Banks of NC

Author’s note: This post was first published in 2011. I’m revisiting it after learning that Gee Gee Rosell, the owner of Buxton Village Books, has passed away. She left a lasting impression on me … Continue reading >>

Blackout Poetry: Where Writing Meets Visual Art

January 5, 2026 By Linda K Sienkiewicz

Blackout poetry is a creative blend of writing and visual art—and all you need to begin is imagination and a willingness to let go of logic. This art form welcomes everyone, including my … Continue reading >>

Linda K Sienkiewicz

Writing life, line by line