Maria Lauren, (aka) Maria Elena Alberici – Riccio does a Yoga stretch at Crystal Cove, California
In these times, we almost have to be a contortionist to meet the demands of life. There are so many outside disturbances distracting us from fixing the wrong notes in our life and tuning in to the melody of God’s grace. Sometimes there are so many things to do that we forget to truly live.
“There are things only you are alive to do in this orchestra we call life. You have an instrument and a song.” – Max Lucado
A funny thing happened on the way to Hollywood, my inner song was singing in unity with my body, mind and spirit. My mission from the beginning was following the rhythm and music from the depths of my soul. I had a dream and that dream took me to Hollywood!
“I dream my painting and then I paint my dream.” – Vincent van Gogh
Before I was flown to Hollywood with my sister Linda by my side, we both sang and danced in the musical, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.” We both played the female leads and I played the part of the head Courtesan, Gymnasia. The highlight of my role was a dance which included gymnastic moves like the one pictured above. This was in the early 70’s but my body still remembers the posture today. The pulse of my inner rhythm still moves me. Okay, maybe I move a little slower but I embrace the discipline that got me here. In the practice is the freedom and that includes the practice of prayer.
“Eventually we make ourselves religiously so unmusical that we miss both the exposition and recapitulation of the main themes God plays in the human life.” – Cornelius Plantianga
Being a Lifestyle Educator at Kaiser Permanente my service considers the impact that a member’s spiritual beliefs have on the state of their health and well-being. I’m proud to be a part of a team of health professionals that treats not only the patient’s illness but the patient as a whole, unique individual.
Take a moment to consider the grandeur of God and consider the spiritual music that pulsates through each person. The creative power that conducts the universe in harmony and balance also vibrates through nature, through me and through all of us.
Thank you to those who have shared your thoughts, time and energy in my life.
In gratitude,
Maria Lauren – Your Powerful LIFE blog
(AKA) Maria Elena Alberici – Riccio
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Maria Lauren motivates audiences in workshops called, “You Got The Power.” As an entertainer, Maria Lauren performs in “Showstoppers” with her sister Linda Eichberg (Alberici Sisters) and the former Dean Martin Golddiggers. Contact for booking information and fitness or singing coaching: YGTPower@aol.com
The Alberici Sisters book, “Beyond Our Wildest Dreams” is about entertaining with iconic entertainers of the groovy 70’s!
Book preview: www.BeyondOurWildestDreams.com
YourPowerfulLIFE Blog 
I often think of the song “Lovely”, I sang as the character Philia in “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum”.
“And I’m happy, happy that I’m lovely, for there’s one thing loveliness can do; it’s a gift for me to share with you!”
When I’m feeling depleted, this song, in it’s simplicity, reminds me that a lovely attitude and spirit can be a valuable gift to others and I doesn’t take a whole lot of effort.
I also like this Bible verse. It helps me to focus my thoughts and keep them positive. “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8
Maria, Thanks for the inspiration and the reminder to “take a moment to experience the grandeur of God” in ourselves and in others.
We had a lot of fun doing that musical, didn’t we?! Thanks for sharing the bible verse; it’s one of my favorites!
Love, Maria
I am sure to smile when I feel pulled in too many directions when I remember your word “contortionist.” Great imagery. I will share the quotes you included as well. XO Alane
Alane, my dear sister you always get my humor. I have you to thank for previously sharing some of the quotes that I mention in my blog. Darlene also shared some of these quotes with me. I appreciate the inspiration and I appreciate the support of my family. xox