Although popular culture is often banal, there is worthwhile meaning embedded in this television show, including some Zen lessons on letting go of resentment, seeking justice instead of revenge, managing anger, achieving acceptance when times seem dark, and recognizing our connection with others.

Early in the new year many people resist making New Year’s resolutions because of past disappointments or lack of confidence in their own abilities. If we could understand ‘resolutions’ in their larger context, we could use them for their proper purpose as tools to achieve what we most desire.

New Year’s Eve celebrations seem to have gotten smaller in scope. Let’s align ourselves more with the traditional intent of the celebration, and make a radical shift back to the values of repairing relationships and promising good behavior.

The Occupy movement is causing us to confront our denial head-on. People are finally talking about — and in some cases, even taking action to remedy — injustices that have been with us for far too long.

Perhaps the “American Dream” doesn’t really live up to its promise. It offers the hope of success for anyone who plays the game right, but perhaps it’s just not true. I think this is what drives the anger surrounding the Occupy Wall Street protests. If you want to understand these current events better, try playing The Game of Life!

For all the value that psychology contributes, the field doesn’t get the respect it deserves. Psychology is a science — a behavioral science — and deserves to be acknowledged as such.

Continuing with Episode II of my series on the psychology of Star Wars, this week Anakin’s son, Luke, deals with difficult emotions, like his father did, but in a totally different way. He develops a strong emotional center thanks to social connections and support.