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Hi everyone! My name is Maris and I recently started working at SHALVA as the community education and outreach coordinator. I am so excited that part of my role is supporting Seven Circles!
You may have already seen my name on a few blog posts already, but thought I’d take a step back and introduce myself to this wonderful community.
Q: What drew you to this role?
My background is in history museum education, so I’m well-versed in getting people excited about something they might not seek out on their own. Museums are amazing, but I wasn’t really feeling fulfilled—the world is filled with a lot of bad, and I felt like it was time for me to try to do something about it. So, in working with SHALVA and Seven Circles, I feel like I can combine my love of education with my desire to put some good back into the community.
Q: What are you most excited about?
Honestly, I think I’m most excited about growing this amazing program! I can’t wait to have more in-person programming, as well as continue to grow our cohorts of couples. The people that I know that want to be in a committed relationship want it to be safe, healthy, and loving---I am so happy to be helping people get (or stay!) there in any way that I can!
Q: What is your favorite healthy relationship tip?
I have a few, but I think my all-time favorite is that relationships are not 50/50. The weight each partner can carry will change, sometimes daily, and the key is communicating what you can and cannot carry to your partner. Today, I might be able to do 80/20, and next week I might need 40/60. The most important thing I can do is say to my partner “I am at 40 today, and I need you to be 60” or vice versa. Otherwise, I’ll feel burnt out and resentful. It so often boils down to clear and respectful communication!
Q: What do you do for fun?
I love a good book when I can sit down and get into it! I recently read A Court of Thorns and Roses series after numerous recommendations and have to say it was worth the hype (although maybe not always the best example for healthy relationships!) I also love to watch TV, knit, try new restaurants, or go on a hike with my partner Ben.
