“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is,
‘What are you doing for others?'"
– Martin Luther King, Jr.

As we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. today, I would like to celebrate my friend and Thoughtful Threads Ambassador, Marietta. Walking the talk and doing for others is the “Magic of Marietta.”

Our paths crossed about ten years ago when our love of fitness landed us in the same gym. The first time I saw Marietta I quietly said, “Whoa”– at a glance, you can see Marietta is fit, strong and driven. Watching her workout was fascinating, she’s tough as nails with a gentle soul. I was drawn to her, wanted to train with her and I really wanted to know her story and find out what drives her.

Marietta brings out the best others. Flowery words and clever quips are not her style, she motivates those around her by ‘walking the talk,’ finding the good in just about any situation and giving her attention, time and energy to anyone in need. No judgment, no drama, just love. Love drives Marietta.

If the workout required 50 push ups, with a twinkle in her eye and in a reassuring tone she might say, “You can do this. You’ve done this before.”  If the workout asked for 100 push ups, with big smile she might say, “At least we don’t have to run...”  And if the workout asked us to run, with resolve she’d say, “At least it’s not 100 push ups.”  No easy button, no excuses, just honesty. Honesty drives Marietta.

Hang around Marietta for long and you’ll find yourself wanting to emulate her “no drama-mama, eye-on-the-prize” vibe –  and then try your best to balance that intensity with the supportive kindness she’s known to freely share. Keep in mind, when trying to emulate the “Magic of Marietta” this is not a jacket she puts on when someone’s watching. This is who she is.

Marietta has two daughters, Doni and Tylor and two 'Grand Dolls', Emari and Lyndon. Raising daughters and granddaughters is something she takes very seriously. Showing them how to be a compassionate bad-ass is job #1.  Her family is her world and she believes her friends are the family she gets to choose. Family drives Marietta.

When preparing for this post, I had the pleasure of talking with Marietta’s long-time friend, Alice, who couldn’t wait to tell me all about her very special friend. They’ve been friends and attended the Southside Christian church for years and having navigated plenty of challenges in their own lives, they work tirelessly to maintain the Southside pantry to be a trusted, reliable resource for people in need. Rain or shine, Alice, Marietta and a handful of volunteers provide meals, lunches, clothing, personal care items and clothing to families needing assitance. Southside Christian funds a portion of the pantry’s expenses but the rest is pulled together by Alice and Marietta through the generosity of people they come in contact with.

Again... 
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’" 

Marietta demonstrates ‘doing for others’ takes nothing more than opening your heart, listening to those around you and then doing something to serve a need.

Right now, many in your community are desperately in need of support. Could you provide someone a meal, coat, gloves or a part-time job? Some people simply need to be seen, others to be heard, told they are loved, appreciated, remembered.

What drives you? 
What could you do to create a little MAGIC?

Thoughtful Threads will be donating 20% of February’s sales to Southside’s pantry in honor of Marietta’s BIG HEART!  A new design will be released February 1st and be on sale through the end of February to increase sales... and thus, our donation.

Check out Southside’s Facebook page, like the page and share it... and if you would like to donate directly, send an email to sspantry@gmail.com.