• Home
  • BOOK SHOP
    • Kylie's Stories
    • Other books by Maria Jordan >
      • Mysterious & Miraculous Book I - News and Reviews
  • BLOGS
    • mar's Desk
    • Inspiration Station
    • Poetic Ponderings
    • marcoujor on Hubpages
  • I Recommend...
  • Contact Me
  marcoujor's musings

Inspiration Station


This blog publishes the third Sunday of each month. I look forward to your visits and appreciate your feedback.

Please enjoy your stay...

Gift Shop

Marcoujor: Mom's Legacy in Me

9/20/2015

22 Comments

 
Picture
September is here once again - a time for new beginnings, along with memories of my own school days. For me, going back to school was exciting.

I loved learning. I totally and lovingly blame Mom for this curiosity to absorb everything I could - both classroom content and people in general.

This curiosity has lasted me a lifetime.  I'm now a teacher who can do my share of instilling a love of learning and receptivity in my students.

Mom was my first role model for empowerment.  Only in her sudden death in 2010 did I realize how much she had prepared me to stand on my own two feet - that I always had that power, no matter what life adversity would come my way.

LIKE MOTHER - LIKE DAUGHTER, IN SO MANY WAYS

Picture
Mom and me
I got my roots in the early years playing Scrabble and Chinese Checkers with Mom. I learned how to play by the rules. I also appreciated the value of trying to win fairly.

My biggest challenge was winning when a perpetrator was breaking all the rules. I could only use my wit and grit. I know that Mom is the strongest woman I have ever known and she passed  that life-saving trait to me. Her no - nonsense approach to things has made me fairly fearless, or at least able to bluff my way through things.

I know she must have been frightened and angry when told by her doctor that she was pre-diabetic. But considering family history, we went to class and she mastered all nutritional information, thus making insulin unnecessary. And she also mastered the glucometer! She looked great with those dropped pounds as well, accepting this and any challenge!

Speaking of challenges, I would like to share an interview I did with myself.

LIKE MOTHER - LIKE DAUGHTER, IN SO MANY WAYS

Picture
The times I'm most creative are...

When I first wake up in the morning between 5-6 a.m., no matter what is on my agenda. I am usually filled with energy, creativity and a desire to conquer the world ... by 9 pm or so, not so much!

The times I'm most joyful are...

When I am at peace. Whether family, friend or critter, there is nothing like spending time, doing anything, with those you love. This includes 'me' time because we all need to love ourselves and take care of yourself.

Something I'd like to learn to do...

Well my latest answer is something of an artistic design. I'm having fun exploring my creative side.

My secret talent...

I can play the piano, pretty amateur, but I enjoy the fact that I can read music and do the basics. It is a beautiful accompaniment to my amazing singing voice...hee-hee!

Best gift I ever gave someone...

Trips to Nashville, Georgia and Atlantic City with my Mom. The look of joy of her face as she saw relatives, explored new adventures while relaying her past memories and her joyful, childlike excitement with boat rides, casinos, fancy hotels ... just the memories of it all. There is nothing like the gift of your time.

Best gift I ever received from someone...

My wedding ring and what it stood for, now almost 30 years later.

If you peeked in my closet, you would find...

Law and Order

It may not come as a shock that I am quite organized and my closet is no exception. I have been ribbed by my some gal pals for having pink hangers for spring and summer and maroon, for fall and winter. "Hello,... us gals need to keep it together and we start in the closet!"

My dream dinner date...

A picnic (spring, summer, fall) or a fireside dinner in the winter with the man I love. Music is a must, I'll pick! Accompanied by a lot of laughter.

My favorite vacation spot/paradise destination...

A private beach, lotsa peace and quiet, unlimited beverages with pretty umbrellas. Oh yeah, with my sweet dog, Andy!

Something I got rid of and never missed...

The belief that I had to be remotely perfect in appearance or attitude! I highly recommend this philosophy. It seriously makes you feel light as a feather and like there is nothing you cannot do!

Something I fear...

The possibility and reality of the evilness that man can exhibit towards one another. It makes me feel helpless and that may be my biggest fear of all.

What I most despise in others...

An inability or unwillingness to listen to another viewpoint; being quick to judge without knowing or caring about all the facts; people who assume they know it all when they really know nothing of importance. What all of these statements have in common is what I despise most of all : ignorance.

What songs tell us the most about me...

There are three songs that summarize me through my life's journey: 
Annie Lennox's "Lifted", John Lennon's "Imagine" and The Beatles "Long and Winding Road".

I am most moved by these timeless songs that make me pause, reflect, shed a tear and regain perspective, all in less than five minutes. How can you beat that for inspiration...?

Some advice to my younger self...

Girlfriend, you do not have to get a "100" on every test. Mom was right, "do your best and love what you do. It would be a boring world indeed if we were all the same or perfect."

The best part of getting older...

I'm starting already (oops, some of you have noticed...) I can pretty much say anything I please and feel any way I want to feel. No one has to listen (news flash!) and no one has to agree. It's all cool!

Best advice to a new writer...

Be true to yourself in what you write about. Be receptive to constructive critique in the polish and publication of your work. We all have much to learn and many are even willing to teach.

My favorite book and why...

My best friend gave me a compilation of Shakespeare's stories and I treasure it. Foregoing all the trendy and predictable electives in college, I took anything Shakespeare... and loved it so. King Lear and Romeo & Juliet are my all time favorites. Visiting the Globe Theater in London was the icing on the cake for me.

What subjects / genres are you best at writing/ about?

I feel most comfortable writing about people and life experience, whether real or fictional. My fiction is eerily realistic as I need to think of an actual person when I am writing. And, I would switch up circumstances and details to protect the innocent, of course!

What would be a subject/ genre that would challenge your current writing efforts? Or are you perfectly happy with where you are?

I am never perfectly happy, in that I will always be receptive to an appropriate challenge. I would be very awkward with anything of an extreme nature, such as dry factual medical information or very erotic, amorous expression.
"Nothing is impossible. The word itself says I'm possible!"
 Audrey Hepburn
Until next time, be inspired by those who are special in your world.

Hugs, mar
22 Comments
paula link
9/20/2015 01:53:12 pm

Maria......THANK YOU, for the Sunday afternoon gift! Of course I love it and especially appreciate your self-interview. I must know you well, GF. I could almost predict some of your responses....

Today has turned out to be a happy, lazy, inspiring kind of Sunday and this post of yours is definitely the Highlight!....

Wish we saw more of you, my Maria, but I understand. We all must know how important it is to "do our own thing." Your Mama was quite a lady and I'm so positive she's a-smilin down upon her beautiful, talented baby girl!!...........Love, Paula (Effer)

Reply
Maria link
9/21/2015 07:29:55 am

Thanks for being the first to stop by, dear Paula.
Glad you enjoyed a peaceful Sunday as I did.
The busy but invigorating Fall semester is off to a flying start.
Have a great week. Love, Maria

Reply
Shauna
9/20/2015 02:14:01 pm

Mar, I love your music choices.

I, too, grew up playing Scrabble. I still love the game to this day, although I haven't played in quite a while.

I was surprised to learn you play the piano. I used to, but have lost my touch over the years, even though I can read music.

Your color-coordinated hangers to match the seasons gave me a good chuckle. That goes way beyond organized my dear friend - it's borderline anal! Tee hee.

I enjoyed this Sunday edition of Marcoujor's Musings. Have a great week, my friend!

Reply
Maria link
9/21/2015 07:33:37 am

Dear Sha,
Your remarks make me smile.
I would say that I 'put the A in ANAL' and would love to play Scrabble with you some day.
Have a lovely week.
Love,
mar

Reply
Mike
9/20/2015 02:37:26 pm

Hello mar. Color coated hangers. I am laughing. I just put the long sleeve shirts together and the short sleeve shirts together. That works for me. Still laughing.

The piano - now that is a great talent. You could do a night club act.

I am listening to your songs. Then it is time for a nap.

Reply
Maria link
9/21/2015 07:45:13 am

Dear Mike,
You have ME laughing at the idea of doing a night club act.
Thanks for your visit and hope your Monday is marvelous.

Reply
Sunshine
9/20/2015 09:34:02 pm

We have the same rise and shine and batteries have expired must rest now times! Not that I'm surprised, but the colored hangers were a bit of a surprise. Ha!! It sure was fun and interesting to read your answers and get to know you a bit better. Thumbs up!! 👍

Reply
Maria link
9/21/2015 07:47:01 am

Thanks for the thumbs up, dear Sunshine.
Not surprised that you are an early riser as well.
Love you, MM

Reply
Gail Sobotkin
9/21/2015 09:28:59 am

Dear Maria,
You inspire me in so many ways and this creative interview with yourself is no exception...words of wisdom, compassion, and love which I'm going to share by posting it on Facebook.
John Lennon's "Imagine" is one of my favorite songs and contains the core of my beliefs, hope and prayers for all mankind.
Your mom was a special person and it is a blessing to the world that you have internalized so many of her positive attributes and morals.
Sending Blessings and Love Your Way,
Gail

Reply
Maria link
9/22/2015 06:39:57 am

Dear Gail,
It means so much that you stopped by with your beautiful support.
Thanks for sharing and for your ongoing friendship.
Love and hugs to you, Maria

Reply
Bill
9/21/2015 09:41:07 am

Maria my dear, that was totally enjoyable. I'm so happy you did this self-interview. Your mother was a remarkable woman, and if she were here, she would say her biggest accomplishment is in raising you.

love,
bill

Reply
Maria link
9/22/2015 06:37:12 am

Thanks, Bill~ your comment touches my heart.
Hope you're having a great week.
Love, Maria

Reply
kimmie
9/22/2015 06:52:40 am

I loved your post today and only confirms why I love you so...such a beautiful person and no doubt your momma passed on her gifts to you... giving you a little more than most. Thank you for sharing your heart dear one.
Love,.
Kimmie

Reply
Maria link
9/23/2015 07:27:06 am

Thanks for your visit and kind words, dear Kimmie.
Hope all is well with you and yours.
Love, Maria

Reply
femmeflashpoint link
9/22/2015 02:52:27 pm

Prof. Mahreer,

Scrabble and Chinese checkers brought back some memories of some wonderful times with my own mama. Long winter nights, those games and some rounds of Back Alley Bridge and Gin got us through the harsh winters with smiles on our faces, gathered around the big kitchen table on the farm.

When the influences are good ones, I love seeing them grow and bloom in subsequent generations.

I'm sure Miss Sammie would be very happy with the blooms she sees blossoming in you.

femme

Reply
Maria link
9/23/2015 07:29:44 am

What a beautiful comment, thanks, dear femme.
I'm glad this post reminded you of these treasured memories.
Wishing you a peaceful day.
Love and thanks, mar

Reply
Mary link
9/25/2015 08:49:43 am

What a joy to read. Your love of life jumps right off the page here. You're a no nonsense gal who brings us all hope and joy to know you. This little slice of Maria was just another layer of your fascinating self!

Reply
Maria link
9/25/2015 11:10:52 am

Aw, thanks, dear Mary.
Your remarks are as sweet as you~ thanks for stopping by.
Have a peaceful weekend.
Love, Maria

Reply
Martie link
9/28/2015 03:34:02 pm

Thank you, Mar, for yet another inspirational post. I hereby confirm that you indeed have an amazing singing voice. Your voice will also give depth and dynamics to poems of all sorts, and especially to romantic poems. You do have a beautiful voice.

Miss Sammy was a very proud mother, and I'm sure she is still watching you with a happy smile on her lips.

Hugs,

Martie

Reply
Maria link
9/28/2015 05:59:21 pm

Dear Martie,
I know Mom would have loved you as much as I do.
Thanks for these beautiful and comforting thoughts.
Love you and catch up slowly, mar

Reply
Ashini Mehta link
11/27/2018 07:54:03 am

This is beautiful! It's beautiful that you've come out of it stronger. Loved all the stuff you've written about what you like and dislike.

Reply
Maria link
11/28/2018 08:47:53 am

Thanks for your visit - much appreciated.

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    RSS Feed

    For a free subscription, enter your email address:

    Delivered by FeedBurner

    marcoujor

    Something awaits us all.

    Know your possibilities.

    There is inspiration all around us--in those people and situations we encounter along life's way.

    Share your wonder with me as well.

    I treasure your comments.

    mar


    Archives

    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013


    Popular Posts

    Catching Up With femmeflashpoint

    Interview with Kim Thompson

    Gail Sobotkin: Walking a Sand Labyrinth

    "Tell Skinny I Said Hi."

    Introducing Shadows by Bill Holland

    A Few Of My Favorite Things

    Sannel Larson: The Total Picture

    Meet Wanda Keay: Passionate About Wildlife Photography

    Meet Michael Friedman: The Man Behind the Talent

    Fine Art America

    Meet Shauna Bowling: The Inside Story

    By The Grace of God "Still Alice"

    HOME
    GIFT SHOP
    AD SERVICES & SPONSORS
    BLOGS
    CONTACT ME
    I Recommend...
Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
  • Home
  • BOOK SHOP
    • Kylie's Stories
    • Other books by Maria Jordan >
      • Mysterious & Miraculous Book I - News and Reviews
  • BLOGS
    • mar's Desk
    • Inspiration Station
    • Poetic Ponderings
    • marcoujor on Hubpages
  • I Recommend...
  • Contact Me