Are you a Martha or a Mary?

Floridians may endure the “you don’t have any discernible seasons” rap most of the year, but February/March is a beautiful season all its own. The thermometer reads 60’s and 70’s and low humidity begs one to spend their free time outside.  I’ve been doing a lot of that this week, reveling in the flower explosions of the magenta azaleas and pink trumpet trees heralding the arrival of spring.  

 My husband and I decided to walk with our Rosie to the Baldwin Park town center for pet store shopping and lunch. Left over sushi and new dog leash in tow, we started our meandering journey home (meandering because our five-month-old labradoodle is exceedingly curious about the natural world and has yet to decide whether she is a right side or left side walker).  In route I noticed a woman pausing outside a restaurant sporting an arresting color combination.

Color is a magnet for my eyes, so I paused to compliment her clothes.  At which point she hugged me.  “Oh, thank you”, she said, “I wasn’t sure what to wear to lunch. Is this place ok?” she said, motioning to Meza Mediterranean Grill. “We love it”, I said hesitantly adding, “but we have already eaten lunch.” “Oh”, she replied obviously flummoxed, “maybe we can have coffee somewhere?”  “You may be mistaking us for someone else?”, I queried.  “Oh my gosh! I haven’t seen my friends in thirty years and assumed you were them.” Laughing with her, I introduced myself and asked her name. “My name is Martha but I’m trying to be more of a Mary, if you understand the reference.”  

 Explanation:  Mary and Martha were sisters mentioned in the New Testament Gospel of Luke.  Martha is characterized as the responsible sister who tends to her guests and household duties while Mary chooses to spend time with Jesus, undeterred by traditional womanly household roles. 

I enjoyed Martha’s metaphor and how her color choice seems to reflect her aspirations.  I often say color is a vehicle for communication and connection. It certainly was on that day.  

Question:  At this stage of your life would you describe yourself as a Martha or a Mary? Do you have any desire to switch every once in a while?  Let me know.

I’ve started a private facebook page for my subscribers and other women who subscribe to the Be Brave. Lose the Beige philosophy. I would love it if you would join The Magenta Life and share where you are on the Martha to Mary spectrum.

Thanks!