Realize this ...

Realize this ...

Know

that you

have been

prayed for

today.

Be grateful.

Be well.

simplicity

Sometimes,
every single one of us
needs to read or hear this:

Don't let

the hard days win.

It is so simple,

but so incredibly impactful.

Have a beautiful day

you beautiful soul.

The Superior Man

This has always been one of my favorite sayings,
but I never knew it in its entirety.

Makes it just that much more mighty!

The superior man

is the providence of the inferior.

He is eyes for the blind,

strength for the weak,

and a shield for the defenseless.

He stands erect

by bending above the fallen.

He rises by lifting others.

~RG Ingersoll

This is my life mantra.

Across the road ...

Caught a little snippet of a Tina Turner piece.
I was unaware of the facts, but absolutely love her story.

For those that do not know ... here's a quick version ...

On July 1, 1976, Tina Turner waited until her husband, Ike Turner,

fell asleep in a hotel room in Dallas.

Her face was swollen. Her body carried the marks of another assault.

But she had made a decision.

In her pocket: 36 cents and a Mobil gas card.

No money. No plan. No safety net.

Tina slipped silently out of the Statler Hilton.

Then she ran.

Across Interstate 30. Through darkness. 

This wasn’t escape.

It was survival.

Across the highway stood a Ramada Inn.

The manager recognized her, gave her a room, and placed security outside.

For three days, Tina hid there.

Her body began healing.

Her life had already changed.

Weeks later, she filed for divorce after sixteen years of marriage.

She wanted no house.

No money.

No publishing rights.

She wanted one thing.

The name.

Tina Turner.

She left more than music.

She left proof.

Sometimes a new life begins with nothing more than 36 cents,

a gas card, and the courage to cross the road.

She didn’t wait for someone to save her.

She crossed the road and saved herself.

She represents everything she lived through.

Are you ready to cross your road???

The Little Things

Today is Happiness Happens Day!
So ... firstly ... go be happy.

And I thought I might invoke

a little happiness into your morning ...

Enjoy ...

The Little Things

by Lyn Marinello – 10/21/25

 

The surprise upon a friendly face

The warmth of an engaged embrace

A giggly game of hide and seek

The tenderness of a lightly kissed cheek

That twinkle in a playful eye

The tenuous weight of an exhaled sigh

The tiny hand within your own

To see the bloom of seeds you’ve sown

A spark with just a single glance

The world within one daring chance

A favorite story read out loud

Hands gently clasped, a prayer, head bowed

A sunrise prying at the night

The squeal in a child’s delight

A vow, a ring, a treasured song

The comfort in feeling like you belong

The glow atop a birthday cake

Forgiveness of an honest mistake

The safety in a good tight hug

Welling tears as the heartstrings tug

The pride in sweet unfurling growth

The depth of a long-honored oath

The joy within a video chat

A wagging tail, a purring cat

A gift, a note, a tiny charm

A stable walk linked arm in arm

The ease of quiet on an open porch

The obvious love of a long-held torch

An unfettered laugh, all big and bold

A fireside snuggle when the weather’s cold

A shy little smile, demure and coy

Lights and ribbons and Christmas joy

The unposed photos and natural glee

Adventures and tales no one will ever see

Unwavering support in the face of fear

A table full of those held dear

The sunset oozing on kaleidoscope skies

The indescribable bond of a babe’s first cries

It need not be momentous flings

There’s magic in the little things.

Yaaaaasssss

If every boss, manager, and leader
could please stop what you are doing
and read this ...

Build a team

so strong

that no one

can point out

the leader.

That would mean

having to give up 

the me-centric mentality

that drives so many

businesses down

and employees out.

Strive

What a gem!

Don't strive

to be well known.

Strive to be

worth knowing.

Word of the Day

Today,
we learn a new word ...

(most of you anyway)

Infracaninophile

A person

who love or admires

underdogs

I wonder if my picture 

is next to that word

in the dictionary?

Carry on ...

No Matter What

I adore this little array of words
and what they do when strung together!

No matter what,

hang on to the part of you

that gasps at a beautiful sunset

or gets super excited

about a new notebook,

or a freshly baked cupcake,

or a dog you just met on the street.

Allow yourself

to be regularly startled

and humbled

by joy.

Allow yourself ...

Monday Mantra

May love and kindness
touch all you do
in the new week
to come.

If you cannot find

the blessings you seek,

be them for others.

Hope

Hope is one of
my favorite words.

Here it is

beautifully defined ...

Hope

is the glimpse

of the possible

in an

impossible world.

T.H.I.S.!

This literally

stopped me in my tracks this morning.

Sometimes, 

things just really move me

or speak to me

or I am led to share.

Be proud

of how quietly

you've survived things

no one ever saw.

wow!

Magic

I do so believe this.
Hope you do, too.

Those who

look for magic,

will always

find it.

What you want to see - you will.

Look for the magic,

the positivity,

the purpose,

the good,

the love.

Worth

Found this little tidbit and knew I had to share.
I hope it finds whomever needs to read it.
Pretty sure that would be most of us ...

A bottle of water

can be $1 at the supermarket,

$3 at the gym,

$5 at the movies,

and $8 on a plane.

It's the same water.

The only thing

that changed its value

is the place.

Next time,

when you're feeling

a little less than worthy,

maybe, just maybe,

you're in the wrong place.

You matter. You are important.

You are vital. You are loved.

Change Your Vista

I am a firm believer
in the fact
that folks are put in our lives
to bless us and guide us,
steer us and protect us.

Some are also placed in our paths

to teach us lessons.

What I read this morning

stopped me in my tracks.

Perhaps those

that do not bless your life

where put on your path

for you to pray for.

Well, golly!

That's a lot.

It was then ...

One of my most favorite poems.
If you know/said what comes next ...
you're my people!

When you saw

only one set of footprints,

it was then

that I carried you.

Such a powerful, beautiful piece.

Worthy of reading

and re-reading

and reading again.

Reservations

Good Saturday to you, friends!
I will make reservations for this table ... ALWAYS ...

Sit at the table

where they talk about

love, gratitude,

faith & kindness.

Not people.

There is always room for more ...

A little twist

Taking a well known
and putting a spin on it.

Faith it

til you make it!

With faith 

the size of a mustard seed,

we don't always 

see the way forward,

but know

that He's already there.

Wishing you day of joy and blessings;

health and wellness;

sunshine and positivity!

Enjoy!

It's Okay

A lesson I learn over and over and over!
If someone else needs to see this ... I hope it finds you ...

It's Okay.

It is okay for you

to be kind to yourself.

It's okay to be wrong.

It's okay to make mistakes.

It's okay to get angry.

It's okay to be flawed.

It's okay to ask questions.

It's okay to pause.

It's okay to start over.

It's okay to cry.

It's okay to move on.

It's okay to try new things.

It's okay to be proud.

It's okay to be humble.

It's okay to be quiet.

It's okay ... to be happy.

It's okay to be you!

You are absolutely stunning.

Random?

Hey kids! I'm back!
Didja miss me?

Nothing in life is random.

Not the timing.

Not the place.

Not even the waiting room.

Every delay carries purpose.

Every closed door protects you.

Every long road prepares you.

Even the silence is sacred.

You may not understand it,

but there are blessings building,

there is strength storing,

and there is beauty

in the broken pieces.

Know that your story

is written in love and grace.

You are where you are

and where you go

with great purpose

and precision.

Embrace the journey.

Self Care

Every now and again,
when things don't work properly,
unplug them and let them rest ...
including yourself.

Might be a little on/off grid for a smidge.

Here's hoping you

find a positive path to stroll on;

blessings to bestow on others;

and kindness to toss around like confetti.

See you soon.

All recharged and rarin' to go!

This Dance

Sadly, I did not put the date on this,
but it certainly still holds true today ... and every day!

Happy 36th Anniversary to Us!

This Dance

by Lyn Mainello

 

The restaurant we met at does not stand there any more.

It's been replaced by office space and burger shacks and stores.

The bars we used to frequent have been revamped, demolished, razed.

And we just start another day completely undeterred or phased.

We've shared full-on belly laughter. We've wept way too many tears.

We have clung tight to one another facing foreign, frantic fears.

We've rejoiced at countless weddings. Sat stoic for many a funeral mass.

We have buoyed one another when we've run entirely out of gas.

We've been overwhelmed at births. Been sidelined by failing health.

Suffered through the 'old person's room,' and been comfortable in our wealth.

We've watched the world get wacky. We've seen devastation, loss and grief.

We've lost parents, friends and siblings; time is often a heartless thief.

We have stabilized one another as the storms of life set in.

We've crumbled under untold weight, much to our chagrin.

We've wandered near and far; stood on mountains, swam in seas.

We froze in an unheated living room; melted at games in a hundred degrees.

We've been lifting at the gym. Racquetball-ed ourselves to death.

There's not a day that we have shared where your dimples don't catch my breath.

"Pool Boy," "Dead-End Daddy," "Mr. Calm and In Control."

"Punkinhead" and "Pop Pop" and my favorite Seminole.

There're conversations in our glances; words need not be spoken.

I just cannot express enough, the satisfaction when you fix what's broken.

I am thankful for your grace; enmeshed in your skewed romance.

I am humbled by your tenacity. I am grateful for This Dance.

Monday Morning Mantra

Kinda taking a few yummies
and squishing them together for you ...
to help you get your week off
to the best start possible.

It is with your feet

that you move,

but it is with your heart

that you dance.

It is with your face

that you smile,

but it is with your soul

that you beam.

Understand that ...

it is not about your situation.

It is entirely about

your response.

Exercise your heart and soul.

(And for those of you that started singing that song ...

you are my tribe!)

Have a marvelous Monday!

Simplicity

Happy Saturday Kids!
Sending out much love.

Today's tidbit is sweet simplicity.

Sit back and let it wash over you

and seep deep into your bones.

When it rains,

look for rainbows.

When it's dark,

look for stars.

There is an inkling of good

in everything

if you choose to seek it.

Main Event

What a sweet little thing
to ponder on your Friday.

I lived the meantime

like it was the main event

and that changed

everything.

Give that some serious thought

and then go enjoy your day!

A lot!

T.T.

It is Thankful Thursday!

I would normally post this on my regular page,
but my son is currently occupying that space.
I am incredibly grateful for him and his passion
and his pursuit of it - so I will share that all day.

My daughter and her family are currently camping,

off on some adventure - exploring and frolicking -

in the same place as their favorite band.

And so I am thankful for the 'audacity' 

to simply reach out to said band and say,

"Wouldn't it be neat if y'all bumped into each other?"

I appreciate the always present opportunity 

to just step out of my comfort zone and try something new.

I adore the chance to speak, to write, to rhyme, 

to chat, to gather, to hug (oh I love to hug!), 

to listen, to laugh, to connect, to learn, to grow,

to support, to cheer, to help and to hope.

What are YOU thankful for today?

Choice

When my Miles was not well,
we had a mantra that we lived by ~

You can be happy

or you can be crappy.

Some nearly twenty-five years later,

I continue to strive to make the right choice each day.

It churns my insides 

to see folks waste so much time

putting hate and ugly into the world.

I'd rather see a feed full of puppies

than opinionated spew.

I'd rather hear a productive debate

than rants of ridiculousness.

We really don't have a lot of time here.

How do you want to spend it?

You can be happy

or you can be crappy.

What a find!

Came across this yesterday.
Saved it 'cause I wanted to share it.
It actually woke me up last night,
so ... there may eventually be words ...

Dum Spiro Spero

a Latin phrase that means

While I breathe, I hope

How could I not share this???

Have a most magnificent day.

Just how much

Not mine ... sharing anyway.

As the sun rises

on this beautiful

July morning,

may your heart

be filled with peace,

your home with joy,

and your day with moments

that remind you

just how much there is

to be grateful for.

I thank you all

for your love and support,

your friendship and kindness,

your grace and beauty.

CYM

Today is Compliment Your Mirror Day!

Today isn’t about vanity;

it’s about pausing,

looking at your reflection,

and intentionally speaking

some kindness to yourself.

Notice your strength,

celebrate your smile,

and remember that you

are doing a fantastic job.

Give yourself a high-five

in the glass today,

you beautiful human, you!!!

Antiquities

Good Thankful Thursday, friends!
Here's a beautiful way for you to start your morning ...

You are not

growing older.

You are

increasing in value.

Some of your most valued treasures

sit at your table.

Treat them as such.

A milestone

Ch-Angels began as an outlet
and an homage;

to acknowledge the Angels among us

and to share positivity and to uplift people.

It has been, as well, a nod to my Mother ~

the Ch-Angel of all Ch-Angels!

Always the biggest supporter of

my poetry craft and creativity,

she prodded and poked 

and nuzzled and nudged,

pushing and cheering me on.

For you, Momma,

it's taken a minute,

but I hit 10 million views.

Thanks, Mom, I miss you.

Hope you're proud of what you created.

Tuesday Pondering

Something very simple
to ponder on this Tuesday ...

Sometimes

you don't get

what you want

because

you deserve

better.

Know how important

and loved

you are.

Make It Matter

Saw something recently about speeches
and from where they come.

Here's my two cents ...

for whatever that's worth ...

I will listen to any person speak ~

no matter their background,

their ethnicity, 

the topic of their talk,

the fire or fragility

with which they speak,

or the duration of said speech.

I am immediately turned off

by blame, bitter banter,

unproductive spewing,

and hate-inducing words.

I'm not looking for 

rainbows and unicorns,

but it needs to serve a purpose

of positivity and progress.

If you a voice to put forth

Make It Matter!

This is the entire foundation of Ch-Angels ~

to acknowledge those among us that do beautiful things

and to lift one another up, cheer each other on,

and find the good in every day.

Three Gates

Looooooooooove this.
It is so incredibly appropriate
for this moment in time.

You may believe you are simply

voicing an opinion, but ...

Before you speak,

let your words

pass through three gates:

1. Is it true?

2. Is it necessary?

3. Is it kind?

Some may believe number 1.

Number 2 is a giant hurdle.

Number 3 is an absolute.

Enjoy your day, friends.

Good Things

On this Thankful Thursday,
the little tidbit seems incredibly appropriate ...

The amount

of good things

in your life

depends

on your ability

to notice them.

One little trick I try to live by ...

when I'm feeling overwhelmed,

I try to just stop ...

breathe ...

listen ...

look.

There is, 99.9998% of the time,

in my immediate vicinity,

a good thing to grab hold of.

Proof

A gentle, loving nudge on hump day ...

The fact

that you are trying

is proof

that you are strong.

You have within you

the power to do darn near anything.

Making 'Sence'

I adore a good play on words.
Here's a 'rich' one ...

Absence

will teach you

the importance of

Presence.

Make good choices people.

xo

Beautiful Things

Loooooooooove this!

And it's soooooooooooo true!!

The amount of

beautiful things

in your life

depends on

your ability

to notice them.

Open your eyes!!!

Saturday Surplus

Thought I'd share a pair of thoughts with you, today.
Hope they get into your bones and snuggle up warmly.

May this day greet you

with gentle moments,

grateful thoughts and 

a heart that is open

to the beauty of the day.

Take time to enjoy

the blessings.

and

We've all heard the phrase

leave only footprints.

Let's expound ...

If you left your house today

and did not return,

what would your final post

to the world be?

Would it be hateful?

Would it divisive?

Would it be ugly?

or

Would it be positive?

Purposeful?

Pleasant?

What footprints are you leaving ...

Treasures

Found this. Loved this. Sharing!

One of life's greatest treasures

is the opportunity

to begin again each morning.

The beauty of a new day

is that it asks nothing from us

except that we show up

and embrace it.

I mean ... come on.

Have a fabulous Friday!

Splurge!

Happy Thankful Thursday kids!

Today is National Splurge Day!!!

It's a day designated as your formal excuse

to break your own budget rules just a tiny bit.

But that premium coffee, order the fancy dinner,

grab that piece of jewelry that's been speaking to you,

and finally purchase that item that's been

sitting in your online shopping cart.

You've earned it!

And, apparently, today's the day!!!

I am grateful for you and for your support.

I am thankful for your friendship.

Have a beautiful Thursday.

Words

Would love some feedback on this.
This is, obviously, not my norm but fell out of my fingers anyway.
I'm not opposed to new stuff, but dipping the toes is sometimes uncomfortable ...

Words
by Lyn Marinello   6/15/26

I can feel the pressure
of the waiting words
behind my eyes
within my heart
weight on my soul.

I summon the quiet,
clear the outside chatter
let my fingers
speak secrets
exorcise control.

Sometimes swayed
by current winds
blowing hot
blowing cold
tornadic.

Dutifully drawn
to share the gift
emotional
purposeful
sporadic.

Tuesday Tidbit

LOVE this!
Hope it finds its target ...

Let joy in.

Don't wait

for the perfect time

to feel good.

Make room

for small, present moments

of happiness.

Have a blessed Tuesday.

Hope

Good Monday morning, friends!
Here's a little mantra for your Monday ...

Always have hope.

Hope is the tiniest of things

that will not allow you

to give up.

When you have hope,

you keep going,

you see a glimmer,

there is opportunity.

Have a marvelous Monday

and a wonderful week.

A Spark of Joy

Today is National Random Acts of Light Day!

Today is all about

bringing a sudden burst of

brightness, encouragement,

or support to someone

who might going through

a dark or stressful time.

Pretty sure we're all a little stressed these days.

And who couldn't use a little light and love?!

KOKO

This is neither in reference to boxing or smooches ...
It is something else entirely ...

There is always

a blessing in disguise

in every situation.

Something far greater

always come out of

moments that test you.

Keep Going.

Keep Rising.

Keep Believing.

Keep On Keeping On.

Have a fabulous Friday 

and a wonderful weekend.

Make Life Beautiful

Today is National Make Life Beautiful Day

Today is a dedicated reminder to

build, create, or do something

that adds beauty to the world ~

whether that's planting a flower,

creating stunning artwork,

helping a neighbor,

being a kind human,

or just sharing a positive word.

Now get out there and

Make Life Beautiful!

One

Absolutely loving this!
Be the One.

One tree

can give life to a forest.

One smile

can start a friendship.

One hand

can uplift a soul.

One idea

can shape the future.

One candle

can wipe out darkness.

One laugh

can conquer gloom.

One ray of hope

can lift your spirits

One touch

can show that you care.

One life

can make a difference.

Be the One!

A Quiet Moment

Lynified a little snippet ...

Today,

I am wishing you

a quiet moment

to reflect 

on your progress,

to realize

your value,

to understand

your importance.

Today,

I am wishing you

a quiet moment

to remember

you are worthy,

to remember

you are precious,

to remember

you are loved.

Today

I am wishing you

a quiet moment

to know that you matter.

I found Waldo

Actually ... Ralph Waldo Emerson to be exact.

One of my favorites and one that I associated
with a beautiful high school friend.

IYKYK.

Do not go

where the path

may lead.

Go instead

where there is no path

and leave a trail.

Don't follow the masses.

Most times, the m falls off.

Blaze your own beautiful way.

That's why you're here.

Parenting

Since we're kind of right in between
Mother's Day and Father's Day,

thought I'd throw this one out there.

Lemme know whatcha think!

Parenting

by Lyn Marinello

 

As you age you understand just a smidge of your parents' woes

The worries that they battled as each precious child grows

Work hard for what you want and play when you are able

Say your prayers before bed each night and keep your elbows off the table

Always say, "Please" and "Thank you"; treat strangers as though new friends

Apologize when you've made mistakes; always try to make amends

Eat up all your meat and veggies. Don't be too shy to enjoy dessert

Don't be afraid to speak your mind, but be mindful that words can hurt

These are simple tasks of parenting, though none of them are easy

Parenting's not for the faint of heart or for those who are quickly queasy

As children grow you navigate on terribly thin ice

You hope the foundation that you've laid is solid enough to suffice

You must build up a little ego, but not to boisterous extreme

Raise a considerate, caring human with a bullet-proof self-esteem

You have to teach respect but debating tools as well

Obey the laws before you, but when wronged you fight like hell

You tilled the earth they walk on. Set down roots to keep them grounded

Redirected when they veered off course; offered guidance when confounded

You padded the nest they laid in; provided a haven of safety and rest

Imparted the passion to chase their dreams and the stamina to face said quest

You urged them in jumping from that nest, assured you'd catch them or they'd fly

You gave them strong and mighty wings with which to soar on high

When they're little you protect them, but a broken heart is hard to mend

So you sit and cry and listen, so they know you comprehend

You hug them back together; absorb all the pain and tears

Stand beside them undeterred as they battle down their fears

You celebrate the victories and coach them through defeat

You let them fall; the lesson learned, though the education's bittersweet

You've got to let them go and make errors all on their own

You pray they will take solace in the most basic seeds you've sown

You can't hold their hands forever, but hearts are eternally connected

The only true rule in parenting is that absolutely anything's expected

Without manuals or directions we all take on this blessed task

With nothing but each other to answer all the questions that we ask

Those apron strings must be untied, though the bond is never ending

Parenting; that thankless, unpaid job is worth all the effort you're expending.

Super

Whether you are a Superman
or Supermom,

this is for you ...

Some days ...

I wear my cape

like a blanket,

just to get through.

It's all good.

You're doing great!

Smile

Nothing costs as little
and

is worth as much

as your smile.

Share that beautiful beacon

EVERYWHERE 

and with

EVERYONE!

Reminder to Self

A pure and peaceful soul

finds light everywhere

and also within.

I wish you peace

and purity

and light.

Anyway

Not everyone has the same heart as you.
Be kind anyway.

Not everyone cares the same as you.

Be loving anyway.

Not everyone is as generous as you.

Be giving anyway.

Not everyone is as patient as you.

Be understanding anyway.

Not everyone sees the blessings you do.

Be grateful anyway.

For in your continued and steadfast grace

you will find the seeds of strength

to take the next step,

to go the extra mile,

to be a better you

with the only applause

coming from your truly contented soul.

The only accolade you will ever truly need.

Brave

Someone shared this and it just really struck me.
These are not all 'me' things, but I see them around me.
This is simply brilliant ~ a little long, but so worth the read.

Someone recently called me “brave” for wearing a bikini to the beach because I have love handles and back fat.

To be honest I don’t actually see it as bravery.

This is just… my body.

The c-section shelf.
The bingo arms.
One boob slightly bigger than the other.
The suspiciously dark hair on my big toe.

It’s the only body available to me, so what exactly am I supposed to do when I go to the beach?
Leave it at home?

But this is what years of body shaming have done to us. They’ve convinced us not only that our bodies should look a certain way, but also that our appearance is somehow the most important thing about us.

We’re taught that our bodies are unacceptable until we finally “fix” them - usually through years of yo-yo dieting, guilt, restriction and self-torture, all lovingly sponsored by a multi-billion-dollar beauty industry that profits from our insecurity.

And because of that conditioning, we now see people as “brave” whenever they dare expose the very parts we’ve been taught to hate, hide and apologize for.

But look around you.

Those supposedly “unacceptable” parts - the wrinkles, scars, cellulite, softness, stretch marks and wobbly bits - are things almost all human beings have.

They’re not flaws.
They’re just evidence of having a body.

And a body, by the way, is so much more than what it looks like.

Personally, I’m not even a huge fan of the whole “love your body” narrative because I think it puts enormous pressure on people.

I don’t “love” my stomach any more than I love my right elbow.

I used to think about my stomach a lot more, that’s true - mostly because I’d been conditioned to - but these days I simply have far more interesting things to think about.

I don’t love my body.
I appreciate it.
I’m grateful for it.

It carries me through life. It has birthed children, survived heartbreak, held me through grief, pleasure, illness, joy and exhaustion.

It’s not good or bad.
It’s not right or wrong.

It’s literally just a body.
Like millions of other bodies.

And I’m not “brave” for showing it.

To be fair, I couldn’t really hide it even if I wanted to…

After all, it’s attached to my head 

Hard Days

A little compilation
to help you through ...

Little by little, inch by inch,

what is meant for you will come.

Sometimes,

you don't get what you want

because you deserve something better.

When you believe

you are in a dark place - 

thinking you've been buried -

perhaps, instead ...

you have been planted. 

If it comes, take it.

If it goes, let it.

Take a moment

to be proud of yourself

for all you've overcome.

Don't let 

the hard days win.

Much love, friends.

Value

Short and sweet
on this Thankful Thursday ...

You are not

getting older,

you are

increasing

in value.

You are a valuable treasure!

A beautiful masterpiece!

Energy

Good morning, friends.
Short and sweet this morning ...

If it does not provide you

with any of the 3 P's ...

purpose, productivity, positivity ...

do not expend your energy on it.

Much love and many hugs!

Tuesday Tidbits

Found and sharing some goodies
that I have mashed together and Lynified ...

Absence

will teach you

the importance

of presence.

~

I hope that

yesterday reminds you

how strong you were;

today proves

how capable you are;

and tomorrow tells you

how extraordinary you can be.

~

Those

who look for magic

are most certain

to find it.

It is hard

Tripped over this beauty this weekend.
Seemed more than appropriate to share ...

It is hard

to throw stones

if you are busy

washing feet.

What are you putting your energy into?

Are you sharing and shedding light ...

or feeding an ugly, hateful beast?

You can not like something or someone

and still be a beacon -

that is the purpose of a lighthouse -

to stand amidst the crashing waves

and lead people to someplace safe.

YOU

Awakened at 4 am - I rubbed my tired little eyes,
grabbed my handy dandy notebook and began to write.
This is what fell out ...

YOU

by Lyn Marinello  ~  5/23/26

In the inky night time hours

I am grateful for the light

Thankful for abundance

In the midst of barren blight

In the vacuous expanse

Of this world's wayward moral scope

I am buoyed in believing

In that mustard seed of hope

With the constant, crushing weight

Of societal decrees

I've found that I am strongest

When fighting from my knees

When the suffocating static

Forces me to gulp for air

I find it's always sweeter

When breathing life into a prayer

There are greater things than I

Working wonders within my days

And I've become quite cognizant

Of His miraculous displays

When the nuisance of the noise

And lack of love lays ludicrous

Know that you, my friend, specifically

Were made for such a time as this

There is a purpose in your being

No matter caste or sex or hue

Along with the Heavens and the earth

He realized He also needed YOU

The Best Thing

From one Miss Audrey Hepburn ...
I believe I have posted this before,
but I am completely enveloped in this ...

The best thing

to hold onto in life

is each other.

If there was more holding

and less pointing,

more joining

and less dividing,

more communing

and less complaining ...

the world would be

quite extraordinary.

Dandelion Fortitude

Found this and absolutely LOVED it!
Sharing so you can love it, too.

The dandelion

does not stop blooming

because it is told

it is a weed.

It says,

"One day,

they'll be making wishes

upon me."

You matter.

You're beautiful.

You are loved.

A Piece of Me

Today is my daughter's birthday!
What a beautiful gift she is!

A Piece of Me

by Lyn Marinello

Some thirty-five years ago

on my way to work,

twinges caused a detour

and a piece of me was born.

We will always be attached.

Intangibly tethered - 

by love, loyalty and laughter.

You are a joy to watch unfurl -

to grow into your own beautiful self.

I am grateful 

to have been gifted with you.

Happy Birthday, Beautiful!

Note to Self

This weighed on me today.
Perhaps someone needs this ...

I don't have to take this day

all at once,

but rather one step,

one breath, one moment

at a time.

I am only one person.

Things will get done

as I can get to them.

Have a wonderful day, friends.

Magnet

This was shared with me yesterday.
I wanted to gift it forward.

May you be a magnet

for miracles,

for kind people,

for great energy,

and a million

happy moments.

Stick to it!  ;-)

Be positive.

Magic

Short and Sweet Saturday ...

Those

that look for magic

will 

always find it.

Enjoy the day before you.

Freedom

This little tidbit rolled across my feed today
and it resonated very much with me.

Freedom

is what you do

with

what's been done

to you.

Whatchathink?

quote is from Jean-Paul Sartre

NDD

Today is National Decency Day!!!

In an era of "hot takes" and internet arguments,

today is a simple reminder

to lead with basic respect and kindness.

It’s about being

a "decent" human being—

something we think never goes out of style

but it certainly pushing boundaries.

Go be Decent!

Be kind.

Be nice.

Be a good human.

T H I S

With a world in immediate mode
constantly,

and expectations and foundations

shifting with the wind,

how about this ...

Satisfy your soul ~

not society.

The ethics & morals train

visits some extraordinary places.

Be the reason

Here's an oldie, but a goodie.

Of course ... it has been Lynified!  :-)
Anchor your life in this simple premise
and you will find blessings abound ...

Be the reason

someone smiles.

Be the reason

someone tries.

Be the reason

someone feels loved.

Be the reason

someone tries again.

Be the reason

someone believes

in the goodness 

and kindness in people.

Be the reason

someone believes.

Monday Mantra

Just a nice little way
to start your Monday
and your week ...

Always believe

that 

something wonderful

is about

to happen.

Enjoy your day

and all its possibilities ...

Motherhood

I just penned this this morning and kinda like it.
Hope you do, too.

Motherhood

is a gift unlike any other;

a blessing and a joy

stirred up with chaos and crazy

with an intermittent dash

of madness and mayhem.

It is a divine concoction

served by little hands

and devoured by grateful hearts.

Enjoy your weekend!

You deserve it!

You

You, yes you,
were created
for such a time
as this.

You are magnificent.

You are necessary.

You are beautiful.

You are loved.

A Gift

To be
in the thoughts
and prayers

of another soul

is a gift

not to be

taken lightly.

Embrace

the kindness

and the love.

Ch-Angels for sure

Today is National Nurses Day!
What an extraordinary group of people.

Selfless, tireless, giving.

I have come to be blessed with a very large

group of friends who are in this field.

Circumstances may not have been perfect

for me to have gathered these souls in my sphere,

but I literally would not be standing

without the existence of these people.

There are far too many to acknowledge by name,

but I hope you know how appreciated you are,

how vital you are,

how important you are,

how very loved you are.

You are Angels of Change 

who have traded in halos for stethoscopes

and wings for quiet, bedside fortitude.

Thank you for all you do and are.

You're So Special

Good Saturday morning, kids!
I will be off-grid for just a couple days.
Every now again you just need to unplug and unwind.

(I'll still be around if you need me - because you matter.)

God

gave you a fingerprint

that no one else has,

so you

can leave an imprint

that no one else can.

Know how very special you are!

You matter. You are important.

You are beautiful. You are necessary.

Have a beautiful weekend

and I'll see ya in a few.

Nod to Teachers

As we begin the month
that appreciates some of our most amazing folks ...

TEACHERS ...

I saw this and could actually hear it coming from several of you.

If you don't have time

to do it right,

when will you have time

to do it over.

DIRFT

Do It Right the First Time!

Thank you for all that you do.

A selfless, underpaid, underappreciated people.

I am in awe of you.

Peace

A most fantabulous friend posted this.
It was a bit longer, but I stole the piece
that truly spoke to me.

Hope it finds it mark in you as well ...

Peace

is not the absence

of storms;

it is the willingness

to host them

without panic.

A Happy Heavenly Birthday to my Momma.

You did this ... flawlessly.

I'm still learning.

Have a thoroughly Thankful Thursday.

Oh Yes!

Love this nugget and can pin this on so very many people.
Do you have some?

Some

of the most 

wonderful people

are the ones

who don't

fit in boxes.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Tuesday Tidbit

Thought I'd share a little nugget that I found.
It belongs to one Bob Goff.

Actually ... it belongs to each of us ...

We won't be

distracted by comparison

if we are

captivated with purpose.

Go captivate yourself and others ...

Building Blocks

Grabbed this from a book I just finished reading.
It got my attention, so maybe someone else might need it, too ...

... our personality is made up of three key building blocks ...

1. the conscious part that always has a choice

2. the unconscious part that expresses itself through the body, and

3. the spiritual part, emanating from the Source, that gives us direction.

What blocks are you building with today?

A few things ...

I have come to learn a few things
in the seeming zillion years I've been here.

1. We are each gifted with certain things. We should absolutely share them.

There is a message in our talents.

2. This isn't a race. No one's getting out alive.

3. We are all - each one of us - connected to the other.

4. We rise not by climbing on the backs of those before us,

but by lifting those around us.

5. There are Ch-Angels all around us ~ those folks who are

selfless, kind, and generous creatures.

Find them. Keep them.

6. Stay tethered to the folks that matter. A call, a card, a text, a visit.

7. Be kind. It costs nothing but a moment and could literally last a lifetime.

8. Breathe in the joy of a new day and exhale the light of a friendly path.

Have a lovely weekend, friends.

F Words

Do I have your attention?
:-)

Both faith and fear

demand you believe

in something

you cannot see.

You choose ...

And as I have said to my children

for a bazillion years ...

Make good choices!

Color

There are enough critics.
The world needs more artists ...

Every day

you get the chance

to paint your life

with

a little more color.

Grab your palette, people!

Love!

Love!
The answer is almost always ... love!

(And when it's not ... it's faith!)

There will be people in this life

who will cut you open

just to see what you are made of.

Show them ... it is love.

This just seemed very powerful to me.

How 'bout you?

Attitude

Learned this nugget
very early on.

A mantra for certain ...

Attitude

is the difference

between an ordeal

and an adventure.

Alter your attitude

and all kinds of things change.

Monday Mantra

Short and sweet
to get your week started properly ...

The life we lead

is the lesson we teach.

Take a moment ...

what are you teaching???

Saturday Sermon ...

I pulled a few excerpts from a beautiful post
by a beautiful friend.

I hope they find their mark ...

The engine bay was a maze of plastic shields and sensors.

Modern cars are built like modern egos ~

impressive to look at, but fragile when things get real.

I realized then that I had spent years

worrying I was becoming a relic,

waiting for a seat at a table that didn't have room for my soul.

You spend the first half of your life

trying to fit into other people's houses,

and the second half realizing that you are the house.

The road is open, the sky is deep,

and the best view in the world

is wherever you decide to stop.

Happy

A Friday mashup for y'all.
Enjoy ...

The things

that make you happy

do not have

to make sense

to anybody else.

Respond 

with grace ~

even when

others don't.

Hoping your Friday

and your weekend

are all you need them to be.

Go ... be happy!

Rise

On this Thankful Thursday,
and during a month that celebrates poetry ~
I am sharing this little treasure
and would love to hear your thoughts.

Rise
by Lyn Marinello ~ April 2026

I’ve been cut off at the knees; stabbed brutally in the back,
Betrayed without remorse. Been victimized by attack.
As long as memory serves, I’ve allowed these actions to take place.
I simply sat in silence. Told myself I was saving face.
Comments on my stature deterred my little girl pursuit.
How the sex I was born into caused an inclusivity dispute.
I was told I couldn’t dance because I was too short.
I couldn’t travel and compete. It seems golf was a boys-only sport.
I lacked the general knowledge to converse on relevant news.
Our thoughts did not align, so mine were lesser views.
I’ve overcome each obstacle; excelled on near every stance.
I chose not to absorb your hate. Opposed, again, I took a chance.
I built a ladder of each insult. Climbed beyond your petty lies.
My light won’t be extinguished. There is pain … and still I rise.

And now I am a pillar, standing firm for those in need.
I may not solve the problem, but I will always plant a seed ~
Of value and integrity; of import and of strength ~
To seek beyond the immediate; find meaning in life’s breadth and length.
Turn off the social media. Delete the static and the noise.
Dive into what’s adjacent … life’s simple, natural joys.
The world is full of critics ~ spineless cowards spewing hate.
There is absolutely nothing that says you need participate.
Don’t jump up on the wagon, or get caught up in its spokes.
Any fire can be fanned but choose which ones you will stoke.
I will stand beside you, fight for the overwhelmed and underserved;
Making certain life’s held high and common sense is duly preserved.
Feelings may be trampled, opinions are often oversized,
But together we’ll get through this … and still, my friend, we’ll rise.

Quiet Moment

From one Mary Davis ...

I am wishing you a

Quiet Moment

to remember you are worthy,

to remember you are precious,

to remember ...

you are loved.

Sit in the stillness

and realize how integral

you really, really are!

HOPE

A nice little repeat (I'm pretty sure),
because, perhaps, we all need this ...

HOPE 

is the thing with feathers

that perches in the soul

and sings the tune

without the words

and never stops

at all.

~ Emily Dickinson

Quiet yourself

and listen ...

for hope.

Company

We've all heard the 3-day company rule,
but this is much better ...
and nicer.

:-)

Sometimes

you just need

to disconnect

and to enjoy

your own company.

Occasionally, just a little reboot

does a world of wonders.

An Oldie

but a goodie!

THIS!

Accept what is.

Let Go of what was.

Have Faith in what will be.

So simple. So true.

Have a beautiful weekend.