Marilyn Mcintyre is my boyfriend, Tony’s, mom. From seeing her role model self-confidence, to noticing the sweet way she interacts with her son, to the lovely things she has done for me throughout my time in New Orleans – she is an inspiring woman in my life. Marilyn is loyal, caring, honest, resourceful, confident and dynamic.
Marilyn was born and raised in Minnesota. She moved to New Orleans in 2010 to join Tony who has been down here since 2008. She is, without a doubt, her son’s number one fan. Something I find inspiring about Marilyn is her role as a mother. She wanted her son to have a different childhood and background than she did and worked hard to create it. She values education and worked to make sure this was a reality for Tony. She made sure her son could succeed. Marilyn is fiercely protective of him and very, very proud. Now, and when he was growing up, Marilyn reminded Tony that he is a king and does not let him forget it.
Marilyn is currently a home health care provider. When she was in Minnesota, Marilyn was an anesthesia support specialist in labor and delivery. I don’t get to see Marilyn with her patients but, I can tell you, if I was ill and needed someone to take care of me, I think she would be the best person. She is nurturing and warm. Plus, she has a realness and “tell it like it is” nature to her, which I love.
Marilyn is thoughtful and caring. She’s always sending Tony over to my place with snacks or delicious left-overs. She’s given me several pieces of furniture and things to spruce up my apartment. And, I never miss a holiday dinner in New Orleans!
Marilyn is a gal on the go! She is often traveling back to Minnesota and having her friends visit her here in NOLA. I love the value she places on travel and making time for those around her. (My haven’t-been-to-MN-in-a-year-and-a-half self could learn something from her!)
Marilyn is proud of the woman that she is today. Everything she’s gone through has brought her to where she is today. I love this perspective and try to ascribe to it, as well.
I am happy Marilyn is in my life - through Tony. It’s so nice to have a stable force down here. Especially when Tony is away on tour, it sets my mind at ease to know she’s there if I need her. Plus, it helps that we can both lament how much we miss him when I help them connect over skype sessions!
I am certain, at some point, Tony will be an exceptional father and I know this will be greatly influenced by his experiences growing up and his mom’s role in his life. And, when Tony tells me about the cute things he and his mom used to do, I can’t help but think of Marilyn as a grandma playing a special role in her grandkid’s lives . . . reminding each of them that they’re kings and queens.
Read about Marilyn’s inspirations and advice for her former self below. . .
What inspires you?
Strength and empowering women inspire Marilyn. As someone who has gone through a lot she wants to help other women. She sees many women down on themselves and caught in the trap of doing what other want them to do instead of being true to themselves.
Who are women in your life or throughout history who have inspired you?
Iyanla Vanzant! Marilyn said Iyanla can pinpoint her feelings like no one else can. In fact, sometimes she can bring up thoughts or feelings she didn’t know she had inside. And, Iyanla has a spiritual connection to her work and empowerment. When Marilyn mentioned her, I was not surprised. She shares a lot of her quotes and words over social media – which I enjoy!
What advice would you give your younger self?
Marilyn would say “I love you” because wished she would have heard that more. She’d reminded her that “you really are more than you thought you were”! And, she’d give her a hug!
This March, I am celebrating all the amazing women around me! Sharing women who have influenced me and make up my personal history. As the month goes on, you can see all my Inspiring Women posts here.