Trees

Photo by Jeremy Bishop, Unsplash

I had an amazing day yesterday.

Or as people say nowadays, A-mazing!

Well in Montclair, Montclair, New Jersey, had an open house, and to be honest, for the first time in my 59 years I was in a room full of women where I not only felt comfortable, but I felt safe. It was like, “These are my people.”

I was able to be everything I am without judgement — silly, fun, and deep/spiritual/philosophical. ZERO small talk and everyone I talked to “got me.” I dreamed about days like this with other women.

The day before, I was in a car accident and just not myself. I was also a bit down-hearted because I thought I was going to score a speaking engagement I really wanted, but they went with someone else. Then, at this event, I was able to participate in a Sound Therapy session. By the end of the session, I was giggling and crying at the same time. I felt completely elevated and like a brand new person.

But the craziest thing happened as I was entering the building. A beautiful woman was walking in before me. She was smiley and held the door open for me. (Sounds normal, but this is New Jersey, and trust me, strangers don’t smile at you!) Anyway, we ended up having one great conversation after another. It got so deep, so fast. I felt like she was my twin! We had so much in common and so many relatable experiences.

One of the themes of our conversation dealt with trees. I won’t get into it because I respect people’s privacy, but it was heavy.

Keep the word “tree” in mind though, as I continue…(And note, I was also wearing my Banyan tree necklace).

When I came home, my husband said, “You are glowing!”

I excitedly told him all about the event. I began with, “Never, and I do not say this lightly, never, in my 59 years did I feel so comfortable in a room full of women. Not only did I feel comfortable, I felt safe.”

Whether I meet with any of these women again, or not, it was a day to remember.

I slept so good last night. When I got up, I went to my dressing room (a small room where I have my spiritual altar).

On my altar was a card.

What is this?

It was a beautiful card from my husband. He purchased it after work yesterday, while I was at the event.

Coincidentally … wait, there is no such thing as coincidence. This was The Universe.

I opened the card and it was a spiritual metaphor about an oak tree.

He got me the card because I was disappointed in not getting that speaking engagement.

Then I realized, I didn’t want that one. Something much better is coming. My branches are still growing.

I never thought a day like this would happen.

THANK YOU UNIVERSE!

If you liked this blog, feel free to buy me a kombucha: https://ko-fi.com/maryannechristianomistretta

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is the author of the following books:

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: 10 Ways to Become Your Own Hero” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback or Kindle version, visit:Be (Extra)Ordinary

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: I Don’t Want To Be Like You

Her fiction book “Love Cats” second printing is now available, under the pen name Krystianna Mercury, from Pink Flamingo. You can purchase it here: https://eroticbooknetwork.com/product/love-cats/

Maryanne is also available for book editing and coaching. Rates are competitive.

And for positive messages, visit Be YOUnique, the Anti-Bullying You Tube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLq6J9MSvcjd-haQ30ycLWA/videos

Visit my business page, Pear Tree Enterprises, at: https://peartreeenterprises.wordpress.com/

My Brain is Officially On a Diet

Photo by  Milad Fakurian (from Unsplash)

I’m been on a spiritual quest almost my whole life. As a kid I wanted to be closer to God by being good. I wanted to go to church because it wasn’t something my parents did, so I went a few times with my Aunt Sophie. Shortly before my 25th birthday, I befriended a proofreader where I worked, who became a spiritual mentor of sorts. Thanks to him I studied eastern philosophy and religion for several months.

Following that incredible experience, I was told by a fortunate teller, that I was too spiritual. That I needed to be more grounded, more down to earth. I took her advice and came back down to earth. After so many months of being somewhat of a hermit, I was back out in nightclubs, dancing and seeing bands, with spirituality on the backburner. Then years after that a different fortunate teller said I wasn’t as spiritual as I should be. Little by little, I grew more spiritual, and it felt like home.

Balance between the heavens and the mundane is hard, but I believe I’ve achieved it in recent years. I’ve gone on in my life, with my spiritual journey. I’m big on Law of Attraction, Jesus, and the work of Joe Dispenza (who I call a modern-day Gurdjieff). In addition to regular work outs, I love yoga and qigong, beautiful workouts that are an asset to my journey. (I swear, when I practice qigong several days in a row, I can get a crazy sense of “the giggles.” You truly can live like heaven on earth with these practices!)

And I’m a vegan, which I believe is a result of my spiritual practice. It was going to happen sooner or later. That’s just how it was. I felt closer to the source and decided it was the way to go.

However, I have a confession. I still clogged up my brain with junk. What kind of junk may you ask? Junk television.

No, not the news–I got off that years ago. It’s worse. It’s a certain television series that ran from the late 1990s until 2006 and is very popular with women. I won’t name the show, you may be able to figure it out. And I have a severe addiction to it and I want to stop.

I didn’t watch this show when it first aired. I made fun of it without knowing anything about it. It was a popular show, and I wasn’t a fan of popular stuff. When I heard women giggle about it, I rolled my eyes. I had better things to do than watch it. I was living my own life with a similar storyline, working in NYC as a writer.

But then the show accidentally snuck into my psyche. It caught me by surprise. It was a few years after the show ended and shown in re-runs. I was under the weather and lying on the couch with the television on. Then my subconscious heard it. I was intrigued. Dreamy-eyed, I awoke. I sat up to watch. Then I realized….Oh, it’s THAT show.

I became hooked instantly. I binged on every episode like it was a drug. I watched and re-watched and re-watched. Then I learned some of my friends liked it too. I talked to them about it, but it was never enough. I joined various groups on the internet to talk about this series. I’ve spoken passionately about this show, had great discussions and bonded with women I didn’t know.

When the face of the lead actress showed up in my psyche during one of my meditations, it dawned on me, this can’t be good. How can a television show seep into my spiritual journey? It wasn’t right.

I thought long–and hard–about the show and why I watched it. I had nothing in common with these characters. I remember a friend telling me she went to see one of the show’s movies with her boyfriend. He asked her, “Why do you like this? You’re nothing like these women?” The same could be said about me. Why did I watch it? It had so many negative boxes to check — ageism, man hating, Brooklyn-shaming, slut shaming, body shaming, homophobia, infidelity, bisexual-phobia, class shaming, racism, and friends who treated each other badly. There were also way too many generalizations that could mislead young women into thinking negative things like men and women can’t really be friends; that love isn’t exciting unless there’s a “chase” and you have to settle to be happy. WRONG. WRONG. WRONG.

This show is so un-me, it’s the anti-me!

It also seemed like the producer of the show had a shit fetish because there literally was shit in so many episodes, like a character stepping in dog shit, another character accidentally getting baby shit on her face, another character shitting in her pants while on vacation in another country, a dog having diarrhea, and even the producer making a cameo appearance yelling, “Feces! Feces!”

But, like a drug, there was also cool stuff to pull you in, like sex, career, independence, relationships gone right, stylish women, and super cute shoes. And occasionally a relatable storyline, but not too often.

Next thing you know, you’re so far in, you can’t get out. Since I work at home most of the time, I have lunch and a tea watching television. I’ll watch snippets of this show every day. Or YouTube videos about the show, or about influencers who make fun of the show or dissect the characters.

It all seemed so harmless. I didn’t take the show too seriously. It was just “camp” to me. I didn’t take the trip to see where the show was filmed or eat at any of the restaurants that were featured in the show. I could care less about the shoes the main character made famous (they were ugly to me, like witch or granny shoes). But the reality is — I was in deep, and I caught myself. When I watched this supposedly “fun” campy show or talked about it online, something happened inside me. I wasn’t as happy as I was when I first got up. The show was a downer, as were many people who followed it and participated in online groups. It’s all a bitch fest I could no longer get down with. It’s as if the “real me” gets abducted by aliens when I watch it.

Perhaps I’ve grown so much in my spiritual journey and this is what I’m getting, I can now see an ugly television show for what it really is. I refuse to waste any more of my downtime watching this show or talking about it.

If you know the show I speak of, please enjoy it. It’s a great show despite the flaws. Just know, that when you eat a ton of junk food, your body won’t be the same. If you watch a lot of junk television, your brain won’t be the same either. My brain is bloated and overwhelmed. It’s time to get off the “crack.”

Today, I went cold turkey. My brain is officially on a diet. No more junk food for my brain – yay!

Instead of watching THAT show today as I snacked on tempeh faux chicken salad and had my matcha tea with almond milk, I watched a Ted Talk. I returned to my computer feeling inspired. My brain feels lighter already.

If you liked this blog, feel free to buy me a kombucha: https://ko-fi.com/maryannechristianomistretta

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is the author of the following books:

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: 10 Ways to Become Your Own Hero” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback or Kindle version, visit:Be (Extra)Ordinary

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: I Don’t Want To Be Like You

Her fiction book “Love Cats” second printing is now available, under the pen name Krystianna Mercury, from Pink Flamingo. You can purchase it here: https://eroticbooknetwork.com/product/love-cats/

Maryanne is also available for book editing and coaching. Rates are competitive.

And for positive messages, visit Be YOUnique, the Anti-Bullying You Tube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLq6J9MSvcjd-haQ30ycLWA/videos

Visit my business page, Pear Tree Enterprises, at: https://peartreeenterprises.wordpress.com/

Over 50 Modeling, Photo Unretouched

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta, 2021, age 57

One year ago today, from a photo shoot with David Esposito.

I was 57. Photo unretouched. David Esposito doesn’t touch up photos. He likes them to be real.

Always be proud of your age, and all you’ve done in your life.

When you filter your fine lines, you filter your character.

I also don’t do Botox or any other face alterations. If you do it, fine, good for you. But I don’t like the idea of it. That’s just me. I think every woman can look amazing with face yoga and facial massage. But that’s just me. Do what you like as long as you are happy.

There are days when I look old and tired too. But I realize I just need more rest or to make a change in my life. Your real face is a barometer for how happy you are. You may not need a facelift, just a change. 🙂

If you liked this blog, feel free to buy me a kombucha: https://ko-fi.com/maryannechristianomistretta

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is the author of the following books:

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: 10 Ways to Become Your Own Hero” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback or Kindle version, visit:Be (Extra)Ordinary

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: I Don’t Want To Be Like You

Her fiction book “Love Cats” second printing is now available, under the pen name Krystianna Mercury, from Pink Flamingo. You can purchase it here: https://eroticbooknetwork.com/product/love-cats/

Maryanne is also available for book editing and coaching. Rates are competitive.

And for positive messages, visit Be YOUnique, the Anti-Bullying You Tube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLq6J9MSvcjd-haQ30ycLWA/videos

The ‘Smart’ Phone Won the Battle, But Not the War

Me, on a real Smart phone, photo by Darlene Foster, 2010

People do not believe me when I tell them, I do not use a phone–a “Smart” phone that is. I have four landlines in my house, one in the kitchen, one in the living room, one in my home office, and one upstairs in my Zen Den which used to be my office. AND, there is a senior cell phone in my purse, just in case of an emergency. Though I am guilty of forgetting to recharge it.

I do not want a “Smart” Phone. I’ve explained myself countless times and that shouldn’t be. It’s obvious the thing is obnoxious. I once had a friend who insisted on taking her Smart phone out, during dinner, at MY birthday party. She couldn’t control herself. It was her drug. She insisted on showing everyone at the dinner table a cute selfie she took of herself. These things turn nice people into egomaniacs. People are chained to them as if they were a life preserver. For what? To let everyone know what you are doing, every living second of your life? To update your Instagram page to show everyone your food, your cute outfits, and your positive quotes that you didn’t write. It’s all annoying bullshit.

About 10 years ago, Annabella Lwin, the singer of the original 1980s band Bow Wow Wow performed in my town. I was ecstatic. My husband and I scored a spot right in front of the stage. She even came to me and danced with me. It was an amazing show. There was a woman next to us, ON HER PHONE, missing out on this over-the-top experience. Well, guess what? Annabella Lwin called her out on it! She said, “There are people way in the back, rocking out, wishing they were where you are right now. Put the phone away and enjoy life.”

Correct.

People miss out on so much by being possessed with phones. Namely my friendship because I have no tolerance for this texting tomfoolery. If you can’t be a true friend and give me a real phone call (or RETURN my phone call), I can’t be bothered. Texting is so weird and cold. And dumb. I never liked small talk. I didn’t like it when I was young and cute and guys would try to hit on me while I was commuting on the train to NYC for work. I’m now 58 and I still do not think it’s cute. Give me a deep, in depth conversation that makes me THINK. Or make me laugh so hard my stomach hurts. You can’t get this kind of heartfelt exchange from a text. I speak with my eyes — not with my thumbs.

Sadly, whether it’s due to the pandemic or because some “GENIUS” thought it was a good idea, concert venues are tossing out the old ticket system. Instead you can only enter by having a security guard scan a bar code that is your “ticket.” I think this is dumb for many reasons. WHY would anyone take their phone to a concert? Oh, because they want to record it. Then stay the hell home and watch it on You Tube – I don’t need to see your flashing phone during the performance. Or because they want to take selfies during the show. Uh, see what I wrote about Annabella Lwin. Performers do not respect those who take pictures during the show. JUST WATCH THE DAMN SHOW! But, no, people insist on being assholes. Do they not think someone can steal their phone? In a crowd of thousands, anything is possible. Why not be safe and leave your phone at home. No, these rocket scientists didn’t consider that. Now bar codes trump tickets.

So, in order to go see one of my favorites, Billie Eilish, in a few days. I have to CAVE IN and get a “Smart” phone. I won’t have a paper ticket, not even as a memory for my scrap book. It’s all about a bar code.

I guess the “Smart” phone industry won the battle, but they have not won the war. I’m using this phone ONLY to get into the concert. None of my friends will be texting me because I’m not giving out my number. I’m not taking pictures with it because nothing compares to taking photos with a REAL camera. I’m sorry, I do not like the over shadowy photos, produced by phones, that make me look 10 years older than I really am. And my clients won’t know I have one either. I’m not telling them.

Just like my senior cell, this “Smart” phone will be floating around somewhere in my big ‘ol bag. I will forget to recharge it. I will forget it’s even there. It will be useless to me except for concerts.

Screw you, “Smart” phone! My friends and family deserve more. Phone calls, surprise cards in the mail, and even emails from a REAL computer. Just because you exist, it doesn’t mean you exist in my world. You will never have top billing in my life — NEVER!!!

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is the author of the following books:

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: 10 Ways to Become Your Own Hero” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback or Kindle version, visit:Be (Extra)Ordinary

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: I Don’t Want To Be Like You

Her fiction book “Love Cats” second printing is now available, under the pen name Krystianna Mercury, from Pink Flamingo. You can purchase it here: https://eroticbooknetwork.com/product/love-cats/

Maryanne is also available for book editing and coaching. Rates are competitive.

And for positive messages, visit Be YOUnique, the Anti-Bullying You Tube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLq6J9MSvcjd-haQ30ycLWA/videos

Bloganuary Challenge – Day 27 – Where Do You Go When You Need Solitude?

I’m so blessed to live alone with my husband and our cats in a decent-sized house. We have no children, so it’s always peaceful here. If my husband plays the stereo too loud, I kindly ask, “Can you please turn it down?” If I need to concentrate on work, I’m in my office and I tell him not to disturb me. Otherwise, we are either quiet or loud together, whichever way we’re feeling.

Upstairs, in addition to other rooms, I have a private room I call my “Zen Den.” This is where I keep my recent diaries, my incense, my crystals, many books, and all my CDs. I also have a spiritual altar there. Each morning I go in the Zen Den to have some moments to myself, to write in my diary and speak to The Universe.

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is the author of the following books:

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: 10 Ways to Become Your Own Hero” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback or Kindle version, visit:Be (Extra)Ordinary

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: I Don’t Want To Be Like You

Her fiction book “Love Cats” second printing is now available, under the pen name Krystianna Mercury, from Pink Flamingo. You can purchase it here: https://eroticbooknetwork.com/product/love-cats/

Maryanne is also available for book editing and coaching. Rates are competitive.

The Universe Speaks

Twilight photo by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

If you don’t believe in miracles, stop reading. If you do, carry on…

You always hear tales about rock stars or celebrities predicting their fame. But common people don’t share enough of their every day miracles–that they manifested by the positives that came directly from their own mouth.

One of the most beautiful examples, in my life, was back in late 2005. A relationship ended with yet another loser (though to be fair, I did have some cool boyfriends when I was single, some I am still friends with). After that break-up, my mother said to me, “You should be like me, just be alone.”

Easy for her to say, she was 62, but I was only 42 and did not want to spend the rest of my life alone. I simply blurted, “No, there is someone out there for me!”

Two months later I met the man who ended up being my husband, the love of my life, my rock, and loving cat daddy!

That was one of the bigger miracles and I feel another big one is about to manifest.

Everyone who is artistic and in the public eye, knows how hard it is to elevate your career from point A to point B. The process isn’t an overnight success, but moves so slowly it can feel like you’re going backward instead of going forward. But if you pay attention to the signs, you can see you ARE going forward, especially when you see things being left behind.

For example, when I first started as a public speaker, back in 2014, it was in assisted living facilities. I lectured seniors on health and history; and eventually had a “Learn & Listen” series where I’d speak about the life of a famous entertainer, followed by live music! Speaking at the assisted livings elevated to libraries. This went on for another six years.

Over the years I’ve learned that when you book something in the winter, you have to have a rain/snow date. But COVID19 reschedules don’t cut it because no one knows what the future brings. But let’s back up a bit …

As much as I loved doing gigs at the libraries, and all the beautiful memories I’ve had, once my library gigs canceled, one by one, due to COVID19, I took it as a blessing in disguise.

You see, I’ve become such a good speaker, it’s only natural that I wanted to elevate to the next step. I’ve outgrown libraries and began dreaming of the day when I’d no longer be doing the library gigs. In fact, while booking one of my gigs (which is hard work, but I never found someone I could connect with to do it for me), I blurted out to a librarian, “I won’t be doing this much longer. I’m going to be moving on to schools and universities.”

Sure enough, a week ago I had a phone meeting with a university. I’m going to be conducting lectures/classes/workshops online! This may start as soon as June! It’s a magical manifestation that I made happen.

In this day and age, with so many believing in The Secret, Law of Attraction, positive thinking, elevating yourself, and going after the gold, this story is not as “out there” as someone many have believed in the 1980s. (Though I must say, some are still stuck there!)

If something comes out of your mouth that seems a bit strange, or unlike you, it just may be from the universe, giving you the nudge you need!

Has this ever happened to you? Share your stories!

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is available for blogging, ghost writing, writing. She is also available for book signings and motivational speaking engagements. She is the author of the following books :

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: 10 Ways to Become Your Own Hero” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback or Kindle version, visit: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Extra-Ordinary-Ways-Become/dp/1733546227

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Want-Be-Like-You/dp/1726273261

“The Gypsy Smiled” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback or Kindle version, go here: https://www.amazon.com/Gypsy-Smiled-Maryanne-Christiano-Mistretta-ebook/dp/B074VC7MT9

Poetry Reading at Neighborhood House Association, Plainfield, NJ

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta (left), with coordinator/host, Carolyn M. Gourdine

November 24, 2019, Carolyn M. Gourdine hosted an amazing event I was so proud to be a part of the Leading By Mission Pop-Up Shop, and read my poetry along with other poets, comedians, musicians, and deejays.

I read two poems and have them uploaded on You Tube, on my Be YOUnique station. Note, I don’t have children, so not sure how “family friendly” they are since I casually mention “sex” and a “no bra day.” So for 18+ only!

“All About Eve” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyLorsfQig4

“Never a Dull Day” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyiNL6ChEEI&t=1s

Both videos were made by Jayne DiGregorio (https://www.jaynedigregorio.com/)

Follow Leading by Mission here: https://www.facebook.com/leadingbymission/

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is available for blogging, ghost writing, writing. She is also available for book signings and motivational speaking engagements. She is the author of the following books :

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: 10 Ways to Become Your Own Hero” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback or Kindle version, visit: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Extra-Ordinary-Ways-Become/dp/1733546227

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Want-Be-Like-You/dp/1726273261

 

Turning My Back on Age 55

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta

Today is my last day of age 55.

It’s been an incredible year. My fourth book was published and I wrote a fifth (which will be published later this year). I’ve helped two other people write their books, while I tried to help even more who have given up on the process. Yet I never give up.

It’s been another year of growth, spiritually and creatively. I joined Toastmasters to become a better speaker. I not only won a spot to present a workshop, “Be Your Own Hero,” but I’ve won “Best Speaker,” “Best Evaluator,” and “Best Table Topics.” I’ve continued to present speaking engagements in libraries.

I also started an anti-bullying You Tube channel. And blogging, lots of it for major companies and small businesses.

I’ve loved hard; and I’ve lost hard. Last summer my husband and I took in a beautiful feral cat, Bennie, who chose us to live with during the final months of his short three years. We gave him a happy last few months, then he was put down due to brain cancer. We’ve also lost some friends who died way too young. As well as some high profiles like Shakti Gawain, who has been inspiring me since I found her book in the late 1980s, “Creative Visualization.”

As always, it’s been a year of much fun. Friends, concerts, trips, and lots of laughter. And yet, another cat we adopted back in April–Sammy, with the full name, Samuel Keane Clemens.

I end the year in good health, for which I never take for granted. Young people still tell me, “You look so young” when I share my real age, for which I am always proud of. Many do not make it to 55, so I am so grateful for each day on this planet, and thank the energy we call God or the Universe.

It’s a great life and I’ve manifested it; being in harmony with the universe. Being myself. Being YOUnique. God bless everyone who is a part of my own little world.

Bring on year number 56! I am ready!

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is available for blogging, ghost writing, writing, and motivational speaking engagements. She is the author of the following books :

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: Ten Ways to Become Your Own Hero” will be available October 2019. To pre-order, go here: https://kicamprojects.com/shop/be-extraordinary/

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Want-Be-Like-You/dp/1726273261

Love

Photo of Dennis and Maryanne by Jayne DiGregorio (https://www.jaynedigregorio.com/)

This year is my eighth year married to my husband, and 14 years together in total.

We are still so in love; still in the honeymoon stage. This is not something I just realized, nor is it something I take for granted. It is real, and we are blessed.

As an independent woman who wasn’t in a hurry to get married, I knew from our first date my husband was “the one.” What made him different than others were three things: 1. He was supportive of my career. 2. He’s not a jealous type. 3. His love for animals and music. These were the top three things on my list for love and I wouldn’t settle for anything less.

But then, there is so much more, as we continue to live, learn, and love. I can honestly call my husband my best friend. Around him I feel safe because he loves me unconditionally. Around him I feel growth because there’s never dull conversation I’m seeking to avoid. Around him I feel entertained because together we are fun, funny, and never boring! Around him I feel happy because from day one, every single night we’ve spent together, we wake up with a smile on our faces. Around him I feel deep because our shared thoughts are always that way.

We both have incredible energy and are always up for a fun time.

We both love our kitties with all our hearts and miss them when we are far from home.

We connect on the four major levels: physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

And we miss each other when we are apart, even if it’s just for a few hours.

We’re amazing people and we deserve each other. Together we attract the greatest friends too. We collect other rock ‘n’ roll couples to share the good times. Even our single friends are unique people we adore! We’re in our own little world with the select few, and we love it!

This is why I say to all people — men and women alike — do not settle. Wait for the one who is worth waiting for. I met my husband later in life and never gave up on the fact that I’d meet my special someone; my forever person.

When I was young, in my 20s, I had this theory, that whoever was in unhappy relationships (settling)… if they would just leave, that would open up the door for the right person to show up.  And that, I did!

I was told I was “fickle” and “too picky.” And the most insensitive (and WRONG) was when someone once said, “You think you are too good for anyone, that’s why you are single.” No, I was just waiting for it to be RIGHT before I got married.

Love is not something that happens on command, in your ego’s time. It happens in God’s time; or the time of the universe or a higher spirit. When you wait, you reap the all the beautiful rewards a relationship has to offer. As time goes on, your love continues to grow. It doesn’t disappear or fade, as some may suggest if you are with the right person.

There we are, the middle-aged couple happily holding hands. Someday we will be the old couple happily holding hands. And that’s all I ever wanted, someone to grow old with.

My biggest dream came true! ❤ Thank you, Dennis, my forever love!

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is available for blogging, ghost writing, writing, and motivational speaking engagements. She is the author of the following books (in which she mentions Freddie Mercury in both, and how he inspired her as a child, teenager, and still today!):

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: Ten Ways to Become Your Own Hero” will be available October 2019. To pre-order, go here: https://kicamprojects.com/shop/be-extraordinary/

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Want-Be-Like-You/dp/1726273261

Freddie Mercury, Bullied as a Young Boy

Farrokh Bulsara (photo found via Google Search)

The other night, my husband and I once again went to see our favorite Queen tribute band, Almost Queen (http://www.almostqueen.com/). Note that they have been around long before the successful Bohemian Rhapsody film. That said, if you’re a true Queen fan who loves the deep tracks, as well as the hits, be sure to check them out, as you will definitely hear some rare gems.

Anyway, before the show, I thought about how I’ve heard the stories of Freddie Mercury being bullied as a young boy because of his overbite. He was called a donkey by school bullies.

But did that stop him from becoming Freddie Mercury? Absolutely not.

If you’re having a hard time and being bullied, perhaps you have that special something that you can bring to the table by being YOUnique!

Check out my new video, where I speak about Almost Queen, Freddie Mercury, and how being bullied didn’t stop him from becoming a household name! (And if you like it, give me a thumbs up).

Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta can be reached at: maryannechristiano@gmail.com.

She is available for blogging, ghost writing, writing, and motivational speaking engagements. She is the author of the following books (in which she mentions Freddie Mercury in both, and how he inspired her as a child, teenager, and still today!):

“Be (Extra)Ordinary: Ten Ways to Become Your Own Hero” will be available October 2019. To pre-order, go here: https://kicamprojects.com/shop/be-extraordinary/

“I Don’t Want to Be Like You” is available on Amazon. To get your paperback, Kindle or audio copy, go here: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Want-Be-Like-You/dp/1726273261