Beauty of the Heart

True story: I strongly believe women are beautiful regardless of their shape and size. But what makes them extra beautiful is their personality, their drive, their motivation and self confidence. I'm not a shy person and I have a strong loving character but I feel as though I should share something with you. 

When you are ready to make that change in your life go at it full force, no regrets but with ultimate desire to reach your goal. Taking control of one's life is the best thing one can do for themselves. 

About a month ago a "nobody" told me he would date me if I was thinner. In response I said, well in all honesty I wouldn't date you; you lack MANY characteristics of a gentleman, thank you goodbye. It did hurt for a second but I thought of all those other woman who may not be as tough as me. 

So this is my reminder to you lovely ladies - love doesn't see one's size or body shape - it sees your heart. Happy Tuesday!

My friend Brenda shared this with me upon sharing this with her. Its remarkable how powerful words can be. I choose to lift up women with similar experiences like myself with positive affirmations and acts of kindness.

Peace & Love

Rain!!!

We all know how precious rain is right now in Texas. Haven't experienced the worst drought in years today seems like we are in heaven with all this rainfall lately.

As for me, not a fan of rain, I'm rather enjoying it today. This in my opinion is a gift. It's also a great sense of hope that good things are coming.  I've been traveling these past two weeks to South Texas to visit family, friends and to stay involved in my social network hoping to get some good leads to keep me busy this upcoming year.

My time has been consumed with great things and today at this very moment I'm consumed in myself. I'm rather feeling some inner joy of accomplishment. I'm actually feeling very happy and complete. This rain is rather comforting me and at the same time I feel like I'm cleansing my soul at the same time. It's rather a beautiful experience!

So I leave you with this...leave your worries and all the cares in your world today. Let the rain wash them away and you will experience this this inner peace as I have.

Tootles!

Just Kauz It's Right 3rd Annual School Supply Drive a Success

As you all know I founded a nonprofit organization about four years ago. It all started with a simple thought of giving back the community I call home, San Carlos. I was raised in San Carlos after our house burned down in downtown Edinburg on Samano Street. Life was rather interesting for growing up but that is another day for me to share.

None the less, I wanted to give back. With my crazy ideas and a best friend to root me on I took on the challenge of helping 100 students in 2009 with school supplies. You see some students show up with all their required school supply items and others don't. I wanted to try to help those students for whatever reason didn't show up school supplies or hardly any.

Our efforts help out the teachers so much. We all know the deserve better pay and some changes could be made to make their jobs easier in the classroom. To date, we have helped over 1300 students, this year alone that number would increase to 1900 students in 5 years.

We have a vision and we are excited to bring back unity into our community "Just Kauz It's Right."

Remembering September 11

Today, I woke up at my best friends house. I've been traveling doing nonprofit work and all sorts of work. But on this day, I could not help to notice that its always the same pattern. Remembering what I was doing, what I was thinking when I found out the tragedy that happened in NYC.

The only people on my mind that day were my friends Monica and Frank. You see, I was supposed to have joined the military, the Marines upon high school graduation. The only thing was that my mother found out through the recruiter calling my home and told him to stop looking for me.

I was not in a training camp but I was rather at home, in my sisters bed watching live coverage on CNN on the airplane crashes in the twin towers. I will never forget the image. I made lots of calls to try to track both of my friends down and to find out they were okay and in the states. Immediately, I thought of war and everything else that would follow. I was right, we did go to war and a long war it was.

2001 seems so far away but it feels as though it was just yesterday. Time is all we have these days and at any moment it can change. I am grateful that I try to live each day and recalling days like these when innocent lives were taken only reminds me that I am blessed. I have to try to do good in this world because that's all we have, that is all we can give it.

My prayers to the innocent souls lost and those who stood in harms way for others to live.

Peace and Love. MDL

Love is Love

I've been remembering lately what it was like to be in a committed relationship where you are loved unconditionally. I can recall a time where my boyfriend bought me gifts where ever he was. The fact that he knew my taste, my size and an eye for good stuff specially for me. 

This was about the most happiest time in my life. Its sad that things didn't work and it was for the best. I would not be the amazing woman I am today. You see, I have had many failed relationships. Relationships where I was liked but not loved. Relationships where there was emotional disconnect. Relationships where there was lack of communication of each others feelings. 

But in the end love is love. I have a big heart! I want to share all of my life's experiences with that special someone. I want kiss him randomly as we stroll into a store together just because. Squeeze his cheeks like a little cute chubby baby and peck his lips. I am ready for love in my life and the anticipation is exciting. I can feel the joy coming. I literally have this inner joy that is unexplainable and the uncertainty of this great happiness has me excited. 

I am a hopeless romantic, waiting patiently.

My tip for you would be, be open and honest with your loved one. Let him know how much he means to you. How important he is in your life. How much you need him and can't live without him. You will see how much this will help bring two loving souls together.

Peace and Love.

Dreams Do Come True - Do They Really?

When I was growing up I never imagined I would be working at the State's Capitol. My mothers dream for me was to be a teacher and educator.  I attended great schools growing up in my opinion. I attended San Carlos Elementary for grade school, 6th Grade Campus, Teacher Academy where they prepared me for the education career, and lastly Med-High where I was prepared for the medical field.

Little did I know that my passion for helping people would not be so much in the position as a nurse, doctor, or surgeon but rather as a public servant.  At the age of 19 I was blessed with a volunteer position that transformed the direction of my life for the best. I discovered hidden talents I did not think I could possess. I thought I would have been a 19 year old to be married in her first year of college. I guess fate has its reasons but that did not happen. I in turn became a volunteer in the Law office of Aaron Pena and Associates.

Being a volunteer and a full time grad student at The University of Texas Pan American was rather a challenging yet fun experience. I felt like my efforts and hard work would pay off. Eventually, I landed a part time job as a legislative aide in State Representative Aaron Pena office for House District 40.  I must say at the age of 19 I was entrusted with a huge load of responsibility. I managed a grassroots team for Rep. Pena re-election campaign where we won 2-1. This was the first victory of any political stature I was completely involved in. This was when I knew what my gift was, public service.

My goals in life have always been to be a good worker, a good person and most importantly to make my parents proud. Do dreams come true? Yes they do. I am a testament to that but it is not to say it was easy. I dedicate all of my time to extra curricular activities at the University, my job, and part-time jobs I had to obtain to just maintain myself and school.

Today I can reflect on my education and career accomplishments and I am proud to have had many mentors who believed in me and my capabilities. I am also just as proud to say that I worked hard to make sure I fulfilled every goal I set myself to accomplish. I don't think that not having a supportive family and strong family bond that I would have gotten as far as I have.  My goals were in part fulfilled because of the support my family provided me with. Their belief in me that I will do good as long as I set my heart to it. From here on out, I want to be that support for those who are not as fortunate as I was growing up. I want to be that buffer for children and families out there that good people still exist. Because I am who I am because of my love for Lord Jesus Christ who is My Rock and My Savior, My Everything. It is because of His Love  I can share my gifts with the world.

Dreams do come true you just have to be committed to yourself.

Love is Wonderful

Last year was the hardest year for me. I was literally going through a transitional phase professionally but also was dealing with the death of my Grandfather. Bereavement...what is that? I think its a fancy word. But I don't think I have gotten through the phase. You see, I miss my grandfather dearly. Its been rather challenging having to visit my grandmother. Yes, it is that difficult.  You see, I can see she misses him so much. I can see the love she had for him. Real Love. Love that at times I feel as though I will never experience.  My grandparents married each other and were inseparable after. So, again its tough knowing that I was close to love through my grandparents and not seeing it anymore breaks my heart seeing my grandmother.

Some wise words my Grandpa Lucas said to me before he passed was "Sweetheart, its better to be alone than to be accompanied by someone who doesn't deserve your companionship." This will forever resonate with me. He shared with me many more things but I am going to keep them to myself. That is all I have of him. Oh yes, he did tell me to always strive for what I want in my life. To never give up. He was a strong man and to hear him encourage me with such few words are meaningful to me.

Love. Once you have had it you know the feeling when its gone.  Today, I found myself wondering on whether my grandparents love exists in our day and age. I am optimistic that it still does. I am going to continue to be patient.

I guess, I am missing family. I will end on that note.

"Fore the Kids" Fundraiser June 30th @ 2pm

I am extremely excited about this community fundraiser. It has been a lot of planning and organizing. JKIR board members have been putting a lot of effort into it. Our goal is to raise over $5,000. It is a small goal but small ideas when planned effectively become BIG SUCCESSES!

Just Kauz It's Right is committed to providing much needed school supplies to our youth in the Rio Grande Valley. It is my goal, as Founder of this organization, to spread through the state of Texas. We primarily assist rural elementary schools and plan to establish high school programs for our 9-12 students. We have long term goals for the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas and Texas as a whole. I am confident that we will touch the lives of many students with one act of kindness.

Our goal is touch one life, one life that that can change the lives of many more. I strongly believe that.  So for now, if you reside in the RGV -McAllen-Pharr-Mission-Edinburg-La Joya or neighbor cities, please show your support. Together we can accomplish a lot more.

Peace and Love, Miss Mari. Founder and Chair, Just Kauz It's Right.

Just Kauz It's Right annual "FORE the Kids" fundraiser June 30th in Pharr Texas

As Founder and Chair of Just Kauz It's Right I invite you to participate in our annual fund-raising event to be held at The Practice Tee in Pharr, Texas on Sunday, June 30th.

We are currently seeking sponsorships for our "FORE the Kids" fundraiser to assist students in the 2013-14 academic year. All donations benefit school children within Hidalgo County specifically low socio economic schools in Edinburg, La Joya and Mission Texas. The community is welcome to participate as well. Competitions for the longest range and three other competitions will be going on for $10 each competition. We will have amazing prizes. Stay tuned for our fund-raising flyer.

To date, our local non profit organization has assisted over 1500 school children with back to school supplies in the following schools:

San Carlos Elementary - our flagship school and my alma mater; JFK elementary in San Carlos, Dr. Mendiola Elementary in La Joya/Mission, and  JFK Elementary in McAllen Texas.

We would like to continue our efforts in contributing to our community for the betterment of these school children.  Should you be interested in becoming a sponsor please email Lyna Campos, Board Member and Fundraising Chair at lynaycampos@gmail.com CC maricela.deleon4@gmail.com.

SHOUT OUT TO OUR 2012-2013 Sponsors: The University of Phoenix - Mission Campus, Mission EDC, IBC Bank McAllen, Edinburg Boys and Girls Club, Collassa Construction, AT&T McAllen - special thanks to Sergio Contreras.

A Medical School In South Texas - 83rd Legislative Session

South Texas currently has two universities, two community colleges and a Region One Education Service Center. When I first arrived to work at the legislature, I can recall the efforts of Rep. Aaron Pena and the Valley delegation to bring a Medical School to South Texas - Rio Grande Valley. The first attempt failed, the second attempt passed. Now during the 83rd Legislative Session, with the efforts of Rep. Eddie Lucio III, Rep. Rene Oliveira and the rest of the Valley Delegation, they brought forth legislation to bring to fruition a medical school in South Texas.

SB 24 Sponsored by Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa was laid out on the Texas House floor by Chairman Rene Olivier as the House Sponsor with Rep. Dan Branch as the co-author, today - May 20, 2013. The legislation went through many policy procedures before making it to the House floor for final passage. I am extremely excited for my community down home.

This is of good news because it marks new beginnings for the Rio Grande Valley. The two universities, The University of Texas Pan American and The University of Texas at Brownsville are now subject to a merger with a new name yet to be announced. I came across Dr. Nelsen, President of UTPA, at the State Capitol last week as the legislation went through second reading in the Texas House. He looked a little nervous but I was certain our legislators would unite for the final passage of such great policy in higher education for the benefit of the entire state.

I feel as though being near by and seeing the mechanics of the process work for the good has me humbled at heart. Not a day goes by that I do not thank the Lord for allowing me to be this close to change.

Stay tuned for more updates on this legislation.

Peace and Love.

My first speaking engagemnt - May 1st 2013

On May 1st, was a very important day for me as I begin to venture into my motivational speaking engagements. I was invited to speak at the UTPA Austin Alumni Chapter.  This was an important invitation for me.

You see, days before I was contemplating whether what my purpose was in this world. I can say that I am not alone with that thought. How many of you have had that question to yourself. Then, out of the blue, I got a call. A rather interesting one from Mrs. Carmen Guerra with the UTPA Austin Alumni Chapter. She called to check up on me and to tell me I was selected as their spotlight alum.  Tears began to bundle up in my eyes because it was not moments prior that I was having a conversation with myself, my dear friend Kristin and the Lord. You see He does hear prayers.

As I prepared for my debut, I was excited to share my story with our alumni. My story is rather interesting that I wish to inspire many individuals, young and old, to fulfill their dreams despite the challenges they may encounter. I embrace adversity at all levels, which I believe has made me the individual I am today.

At the end of my speaking engagement, I immediately called my mother, my best friend. I had tears I could not quite explain and immediately she sensed my saddened heart. But it was at the moment I had an accomplishment and for the first time could not run to her and hug her. She knew I had tears of joy and all I could tell her is I loved her with all my heart. My parents are my number one supporters and I am grateful to have them as parents.

Mari's New Career Adventure

I am a little late  but Happy New Year and Happy Post Valentine's Day. As you all know I was a former capitol chief of staff for State Rep. Aaron Pena (R) District 40 - Deep South Texas. I was fortunate enough to land an awesome new career; something I have quite wanted to do. I am now officially a registered lobbyist. Now some may have a negative perspective on the title, I however have an optimistic outlook on it. My parents have taught me over the years to do my work right, make good choices and never deviate - hard work pays off. They were right. I have a very strong work ethic that at times I can't tell if I am working, that is how much I love my job!

In my former life, I was a cashier at a Burger King. Learned what it was like to take orders, ha, literally. Moved up to head cashier, learned how to give orders. Did pretty well when I got promoted to Shift Manager at 18. That is not bad for a recent high school grad. None the less, education was my number one priority and was enrolled fulltime at The University of Texas Pan American. The higher education institution that allowed me to be the confident, independent and leader that I am.

I am most humbled with all my experiences and excited on where my journey will be leading. I ask that you join me on this adventure for it is an exciting one!

Peace and Love,

Miss Mari

Life -- It Goes On...

What can I say, I need to make sure I make it a habit to write on my blog. For starters my morning was a rather good one. I think my body actually received the necessary rest it deserved. It is funny that I get to rest when I travel to Austin for work.

You see back in February I made a decision to move out of my Austin apartment and head home to Edinburg TX and do the commute to Austin back and forth. Why you may ask? Well, my grandfather was very ill. I could not think of the "what if" I had stayed and not gone home during this time in my families life. This is by far the best decision I had made for myself and my family. On Easter Sunday my grandfather, Lucas De Leon, passed away at age of 89. I found inner strength and inner peace in myself to get through those days and I was reassured by Him that he will be okay.

Since then, I have been finding more meaning in my life. Putting myself first, such as my health and fitness before anything else, aside from work.  I started crossfit training at Crossfit Rockkore where I have met lots of wonderful and amazing people just trying to get fit and improve their body strength and health goals. Plus I have lost one inch in my waist and hips :-) and throughout my body. I LOOK AMAZING! I am proud of myself.

I also started doing more work for my non-profit Just Kauz It's Right. We will be holding our first inaugural fundraiser themed "Soldiers Serving Students" at Club Cimarron in Mission Texas on June 27th. The event begins at 6pm-8pm with U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard opening our event. We are selling tickets at $25.00 donation. All proceeds go to benefit schoolchildren in Edinburg, Mission/La Joya and McAllen. I am very optimistic for this event and I hope and pray we are successful! We have invited General Sanchez to be out guest speakers and my fingers are still crossed!

On another note, today the President announced his vow to not deport illegal young immigrants.  I am excited for those who would benefit from this immigration legislation. However, I am a little peeved in the manner this action or decision was taken. I will not set my hopes high for those close to me who would benefit until I see a plan for implementation and follow through of this policy. It saddens me the timing of this decision being that of an election year, I just hope the effort's and actions were in good faith and not just for political support - "votes". But, despite whatever goes on in our lives as Robert Frost once said:

"in 3 words I can sum up everything I know about life: it goes on"

Peace and Love, Miss Mari

New Beginnings are a Blessing

Not too long ago, December 17th to be exact, I celebrated another milestone in my life, Graduation Day. Everything I had been talking about for the passed couple of months has finally come to an end, I am now a Masters graduate with a degree in Public Administration.  

As I arrived to the McAllen Convention Center, I bumped into my old high school buddy Crystal Rodriguez who also graduated with her Masters degree but in Anthropology.  Pictured with me are my sister, my best friends Giselle and Jessica.  These girls understand what it took to complete my graduate studies and quite honestly without these girls I probably would have pulled all my hair out.

Now that I attained my degree what is next? At least that is the famous question everyone has been asking me. You see my boss, Rep. Aaron Pena is retiring from the Texas House of Representatives. So that means I have a job until December 2012.  Since I manage his Technology committee I have some work set up for me so I will definitely be busy this upcoming year and I am excited.

I have no worries on where my road will lead me because the Lord has led me on a path of great success and wonderful memories overthe years that I know He will surprise me with something great and that I will love.  I have one job prospect in mind and that is my ideal job for this new beginning in my life. I think I would be a great asset to any company quite frankly because I strive to be the best, number one and that is not hard for me to accomplish, I have done it for 8 years for Mr. P.  Now, I wait patiently for my surprise to call on my phone to tell me I got the job! Wishful thinking but I deserve it.

Life is very complex. Too many things to worry about or think about but in moments like today, I contemplate on what lies in my path for my bright future. I feel so excited all I know it is something worth looking forward to!

Peace and Love,

Miss Mari

Giving is better than Receiving

I promised I would try to write down my best and worst experiences to keep track of the moving world around me. Well, I will report on some good things I have done so far this year and will start with one for now.   One of the best things that I could have ever done was to become a Founder for "Just Kauz It's Right" in June 2011.


You see, I was working through one of the toughest legislative sessions in Texas history and a special session as well with a thesis writing at a stand still...I decided to exert all my energy into something that produced something positive and good for the people I live with.  That is when I officially formalized my personal charitable effort into an official non-profit organization with the State of Texas.  I put together a strong team of individuals that understood the importance of education and sense of community and relationship with our teachers, parents, and administrators.


Through some in-kind donations, school supply donations and monetary donations we have our official website for "Just Kauz It's Right" where you can see our mission, board members and our events.  The best thing about the website is our official logo, I could not be any more happier to share that with you here.

This is the beginning of an effort that will help children in South Texas. I know the need, I understand the hardships, and I made a promise that I will help them and I intend to keep that promise. Together and United we will succeed and I wish that the community will continue to support us because we are here to stay and help because its just the right thing to do.

At our first JKIR Showcase event in August 2011 at the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library with State Representative Aaron Pena and Board Members: (left to right) Maribel Reyes, Erika Conde, Rep. Pena, Mari De Leon, Felicia Ramirez, Lyna Campos, Juan De Leon, Jr. and Giselle Mireles. Not Present: Rebecca Villanueva and Victor Flores and Victor M. Garza, of Counsel, pro bono.

"Blessedness consists in the accomplishment of our desires, and in our having only regular desires." - Saint Aurelius Augustine

Life is my Treasure

Each day I wake up with a list of things to accomplish. Whether it is to be nice to the lady at the drive through or to get all the tasks done at work. Lately, I have been consumed with some tasks of my own, grad school. I feel as though I have not gotten past this road that I have been on for the past few months. 


Part of my mind says to give up and move on. The other part says you are almost there, keep going don't stop.  I am more than certain you have come across a time in your life when it is easier to just say "I'm done, done with this." But you gotta ask yourself, is it really? I catch myself doing that all the time. I recall back in my undergraduate college years when I did the best that I could and if I did not need to to do anything further, then I was done. You see things aren't that way anymore. I work full-time, I travel, I have to keep up with lots of news, but more than anything, I am a daughter, a sister, and an aunt.


Giving up is not so much easy for me. Giving up for me is giving up on my parents hard work and efforts of taking care of me over the years. I am their sacrifice. Giving up on my brothers is like giving up on their kids. They need a good role model to ensure that when things get tough there is always hardship but with determination and family support all is possible. To give up is like letting my sister down for all the help she has given me over the years. I have a lot to be thankful for with my family because they have been rock through every step in my life. 



To give up is NEVER NEVER NEVER an option for me and I hope it is never an option for anyone when they are trying to realize their dreams.  For me, it has only been a last resort option and I am glad that I have not had to pull that option out. 


What I can say is that through out the years I have managed to keep myself occupied and busy. My life has been a roller coaster but through it all I have made my parents proud. I have made great friendships and maintained a career.  Through it all though, my persistence to keep moving forward not just come from family support but from the Lord, Savior Jesus Christ. 


His reassurance that everything would fall into place on its own and that all I had to do was trust him is what helped me stay strong and patient. He has tested through out the years and although I may have fallen at times, He always extends his hand to me to help me me on my way to success, love, and happiness. It is through his unconditional love that also fills my heart each day to keep moving forward and enjoying life day by day.  Giving up entirely is like Giving up on Him; for that I can not do. 


My birthday is coming up and I am reminded each day about how blessed I am to have a Lord that loves you no matter what and is my NUMBER ONE SUPPORTER! 

My Checklist: Got it. Check.

After a very long and extensive legislative session I am glad to report I have survived. I am alive and 8lbs heavier...It's not that funny. But I have lost four pounds of that so I am heading in a good direction.  Over the past couple of months I witnessed a lot of debate regarding Voter ID to Redistricting to Pro-Life legislation. I am glad that five bills that were filed within our office were signed by the Governor. That is amazing. Essentially, our legislation is good policy and if it was not it would not have gotten signed.

I am amazed by how I managed my professional career as an office administrator and more importantly a Chief of Staff. I thought that I would not be that good and I was going to be scattered brains but I did it. I managed to maintain a very professional office with staff and get work done efficiently for our constituents. Working the late and long hours was something I did not really enjoy at time but when you establish great friendships with other staffers it just makes it a whole lot easier. This is was my first time in a different role and position that everyone I interacted with sure helped me grow personally and professionally. I don't know how else to say it but I was really blessed this session by everyone who was around me. For that I am very thankful for.

Yesterday, the Congress voted on a debt ceiling plan which I believe was super necessary. A catastrophe was diverted and I can only pray that we have learned our lessons and that politicians understand to make the right fiscal decisions other than be driving by party platforms. 

Another thing that is new with me is that I purchased a new 2011 Nissan Juke. He is Duke my Juke :) He will be next to me through all my newest and latest adventures! So far he has been good to me and saving me lots of money!

The month of August will be busy. I start finishing up my thesis submission, getting last minute approvals and hopefully I may graduate FINALLY with my masters degree. DEF WILL HAPPEN. I will be attending NCSL conference in San Antonio and I am def looking forward to it. Then I will showcase my non profit "Just Kauz It's Right" on August 20th in Edinburg Texas at the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library.

As you can see I will be extremely busy this month, but it will be all worth it in the end.

Until next time, take care and Peace.

Life's Amazing Experiences

There comes a time in one's life when we reflect on our daily encounters...At least for me that is what I do. I made a promise that I would document my experiences this year as I work this legislative session and finish up my thesis for my graduate studies.

In life nothing is easy. People make sacrifices and people make decisions, at times not the most popular accepted ones. What I have come to learn is that the human behavior is very complex to understand. Lately I find myself consumed in the expectation to finish my studies this semester and managing a state office. I give myself props. My determination keeps me afloat in a very good way. My expectations are set really high that is leaves no room for mistakes. The only challenging part of my educational success is my time management.

Time management is very crucial for me. I have found a balance but as session begins to pick up I am worried I may fall back on my deadlines for graduation...but then I reaffirm to myself that it can be done. I am super determined to finish and graduate with my cohort. I just cannot wait to walk down the graduation aisle to receive my graduate diploma :) that moment keeps running through my head. For now, any words of encouragement would go a long way for me.

Aside from school the Texas Legislature has a very ugly budget deficit to address. University administrators are concerned about their state funding and their student growth population. Teachers are worried about the elimination of Pre-K, their TRS state contributions and education issues in general. Proposed gun legislation is beginning to surface in state offices and well let the lobbying begin.

With all the talks on addressing the budget crisis the State of Texas is facing, I am most heartily concerned about the Egyptian Revolution that occurred last week. Democracy is being to take shape in the middle east and I am trying to keep up with the U.S. role in all of this.

So much information to keep with, redistricting data to voter id. To the simple things...lets just say I need some energy boosters and lots of hugs from family and friends. As I always say the Grace of God is by my side.

I got writers block and listening to Johnny Cash...I think I am picking up speed :)

Until next time. Tootles.

Random Expressions of Kindness

This morning I woke up talking to myself and praying to My Father that he help me get out of bed.  I told him that I felt tired but I still had to get up from bed and get to work. I also asked that he allow me to live in the day and take care of all my worries and thoughts. That was all it took for me to get out of bed, He reassured me that my day will be blessed and full of happiness.

As I was driving away from my house to put some gas at the nearby gas station in the neighborhood, I could not help but notice an older lady walking fast toward the main street, which is quite a distance on foot. The morning was really cold as well and I thought that I should give her a ride. As I pulled over I asked her if she needed a ride and she smiled so very thankful as if I had just rescued her from a chasing dog.

Her name is Ana and she lives near my neighborhood maybe a couple of blocks away. None the less, she was happy that I had even stopped to ask if she needed a ride. As we drove she told me I needed to cover myself with a coat if not I would get sick, she talked to me like my own mother would and that was very comforting. As I headed to the bus stop to drop her off, she mentioned to me that she had two girls, a 21 year old and a 15 year old. Her eldest daughter is graduating from Boston University and her youngest is still in H.S. She says she is happy that her daughter is graduating. Then she asked about me, asked if I was married and what I did. I shared with her that I was a "soltera" not committed or at least absolutely with anyone but that it was complicated. Her advice was, "mija es mejor esperar y saber que sera para siempre sin estar con alguen a fuerza"....let me translate "it is better to wait and know that you both did not make a mistake than to be with someone that the relationship would not last"...These comments from an utter stranger with out me having to share anything at all summed up a simple thought in my mind. Her truth spoken to me in the early morning. She tells me that she told her daughter not to get married anytime soon and that her daughter replied, mother, you are right...marriage is not in my picture but I have someone to share life with at the moment.

This would be the second time well more than that, that I pick someone off the road its just a habit I have, but I promise I will be cautious.

So far my day has been great. No worries, sent out my niece's birthday gift, cleaning up my desk and taking care of stuff for work, not bad for a Thursday.

Peace and Love, Mari.

A Day at A Time

I have had a growing concern over my purpose in this life.  Lately I have been pondering my work assignments and my obligations to my graduate program.  I have been thinking of whether I have been cutting myself thin...but it had dawned on me just today that I am not cutting myself thin.  I believe the stress and the many challenges I have been facing lately are steps to becoming a better mature young woman.

I have been blessed with restless nights and memorable nights with my roommate's and close friends. I talk with my mother when I feel so worthless and helpless and she always reassures me that my time and efforts are not for granted. My mother always has the right words of affirmation to get me through the day.

After this week, I can begin to breathe and enjoy life ever more so.