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A nonprofit, independent news source to inform, inspire, educate and connect the St. Louis Jewish community.

St. Louis Jewish Light

A nonprofit, independent news source to inform, inspire, educate and connect the St. Louis Jewish community.

St. Louis Jewish Light

A nonprofit, independent news source to inform, inspire, educate and connect the St. Louis Jewish community.

St. Louis Jewish Light

"I feel rich; I feel poor," | Time for a post-tax day lament

“I feel rich; I feel poor,” | Time for a post-tax day lament

BARBARA BALLINGER AND MARGARET CRANEPublished April 26, 2022

We just paid our taxes again. It brings up the old feelings we have of our almost bipolar connection to money. One minute we think, “I saved half of my typical heating bill last month by lowering the temperature, so I think I’m kind of rich today...

Life after 50: Been there, said that: Clichés may be overused but ring true

Life after 50: Been there, said that: Clichés may be overused but ring true

Published April 5, 2022

When it comes to language, clichés are so yesteryear. They’re the convenient fast food of communication; something to fall back on when we are trying to make a point. They pop out of our mouths like bread in a toaster—ready to serve and digest with...

Opinionated or judgmental? It's a fine line and sometimes a slippery slope

Opinionated or judgmental? It’s a fine line and sometimes a slippery slope

BY BARBARA BALLINGER AND MARGARET CRANEPublished February 22, 2022

"Do you think she has a thyroid problem?" Two women looking at a photo of an overweight relative. "Have you talked to your doctor about portion control?" A mother says to her daughter as she eyes her figure. "How can you not go to the wedding? You’re...

50 plus

Put the lid on the pill bottle & cut the organ recitals

BARBARA BALLINGER AND MARGARET CRANE, LIFELESSONSAT50PLUS.COM, LIFELESSONSAT50PLUS.COMPublished December 30, 2021

Margaret (Meg) Crane lived most of her life in St. Louis, was associate editor of the Jewish Light in the early 70s and from 2001-2012, was senior writer for Jewish Federation. Two years ago, she moved to New York City to be closer to family living...

Photo created by Sue White

Welcome to Life Lessons at 50 Plus

Barbara Ballinger and Margaret Crane, LifeLessonsat50Plus.comPublished December 29, 2021

Margaret (Meg) Crane lived most of her life in St. Louis, was associate editor of the Jewish Light in the early 70s and from 2001-2012, was senior writer for Jewish Federation. Two years ago, she moved to New York City to be closer to family living there....

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