Buckle up! We’re about to take a wild ride into the land of narcissists. These folks are as subtle as a neon sign in a library and as humble as a peacock at a pigeon party.

The Roosevelt Island Daily News

So, you want to spot a narcissist? Well, here are some telltale signs:

1. Center of the Universe Syndrome: Narcissists believe they’re the sun and we’re all just planets revolving around them. They’re the stars of their own show, and everyone else is just an extra¹.
   
2. Empathy? What’s that?: A narcissist’s empathy tank is often running on empty. They struggle to understand or share the feelings of others². It’s like asking a fish to understand hiking.
   
3. Attention Magnets: Narcissists crave attention like a cat craves tuna. They love being in the spotlight and will do whatever it takes to stay there³.
   
4. Insecurity Warehouse: Despite their inflated self-image, narcissists often harbor deep insecurities⁴. They’re like shiny apples with a rotten core.
   
5. Boundary Breakers: Narcissists respect personal boundaries about as much as a toddler respects a “do not touch” sign⁵.
   

Now, dealing with a narcissist can be as tricky as juggling flaming chainsaws. Here’s what you can do:

1. Don’t Take It Personally: Remember, it’s not you, it’s them. Their behavior reflects their issues, not your worth.
   
2. Set Firm Boundaries: Make it clear what behavior you will and won’t accept. And stick to it like glue!
   
3. Avoid the Drama: Narcissists love drama like popcorn loves butter. Don’t get sucked into their soap opera.
   
4. Seek Support: Dealing with a narcissist can be draining. Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional.
   

• Spectrum, RIVAA’s New Members Show, Opening Reception on Saturday
• MTA Still Looking for Light at End of Staffing Shortage Tunnel
• Budget Money Headed to Roosevelt Island, Julie Menin Says
• 10 Best Running Spots in New York? Roosevelt Island on the Map
• Hudson-Related’s Wild Gardens Now Flush with Fall

Remember, dealing with a narcissist can feel like wrestling a jellyfish. It’s slippery, it’s tricky, and you might get stung. But with these tips, you’ll be able to navigate the choppy waters of narcissism without capsizing your sanity.

Footnotes

1. HelpGuide ↩
   
2. Healthline ↩
   
3. Best Counseling Degrees ↩
   
4. Applied Behavior Analysis Programs ↩
   
5. Intrepid Mental Health ↩
   

The WIRE: Two Futures, One Empty Chair

David Stone is preparing to take over. Dick Lutz is preparing him. Somewhere between January and July, the same plan begins moving in two directions.

Eleanor Rivers Aug 21, 2026

It is December 6, 2015, and David Stone is writing to Dr. Jack Resnick about a chair that will soon be empty. Dick Lutz is preparing to leave the Main Street WIRE, and Stone has been encouraged to ask whether he might replace him. Seven years of covering art, Cornell Tech and questionable practices inside Public Safety have taught Stone how the paper tells an Island story.

Continue reading →