Culture, Art and Travel With A Twist

Marleah Stout

Oct 18, 2024  |  

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If we met at a dinner party, I would probably introduce myself with a concise resume we all have in our heads: “Over the years, I’ve navigated the dynamic world of public relations, crafting the narratives of others, from authors to filmmakers. I’ve stepped into the room with big names, all the while secretly wondering if I left the curling iron on.” (I make little jokes). After dinner, when everyone had relaxed, I might share that I haven’t felt particularly excited or confident about much lately. Something has changed for me, and I’ve reevaluated my belief system.

This has been one tumultuous year, full of ups and downs and runarounds. My life feels scattered in many directions as I enter new and uncertain passages. I’m taking an honest look at the awkwardness and gorgeousness of my life as I get older. When did I stop looking ahead with childlike wonder? Why do I allow regret occupy so much space in my head? How do I continue to endure when life sucker punches me? I need to take a moment, breathe and reclaim my narrative.

Fortunately, I’ve found an opportunity to do so at Restless Urban. It feels like destiny, guiding me forward. I consider myself a dreamer, finding joy in the beauty of the universe that surrounds us.

Call it my spiritual side.

I love to write and spend time alone with my inner thoughts. I often jot down funny phrases I hear, obscure words I enjoy, or the feelings I experience. Like when an older lady sat beside me on the streetcar and told me I reminded her of a childhood friend from Ukraine. Those are the moments I feel most connected.

I think about the paths before me, deciding whether to linger with the ghosts of the past or breeze into the unknown, both personally and professionally. Each decision a guitar strum in my unfolding song. I feel a power shift, a subtle change, as if the universe itself whispers in my ear. The journey is a dance, a testament to the fleeting nature of our existence, where every heartache and joy is screaming at me to share it.

Wait, am I channelling Leonard Cohen? Oh, I have a quirky little story about almost meeting Mr.Cohen, too, but I’ll save that one for another time.

I feel compelled to share all my quirky little stories as I navigate my life. Join me at Restless Urban as I explore my messy relationships, health challenges and vibrant new places. Seriously, who over 50 wants to hang out in a retirement community, shuffling cards and waiting for the early bird special? Not me, and I suspect not you either. Sharing my personal stories helps me connect with others meaningfully, which is the true reward of living a closely observed life.

Hi. I am Marleah.

I’ve been immersed in the world of storytelling and creativity for quite some time, and it has been a transformative journey. I’ve dabbled in publishing, film, entertainment, and retail, representing some seriously talented individuals. But then, something shifted.

During the pandemic, while in seclusion with my artist partner, we unexpectedly discovered joy in creating cartoons. It was a much-needed escape from the chaos, and the response was fantastic. Who would have thought? Well, I did.

I always knew the absurd conversations my partner and I had would crack people up. I enjoyed every moment of the creative process. It soon became clear that I needed a platform for our new cartoons, my partner’s art, my author’s works, my writing and even my dog’s Instagram page. And just like that, “Polygorgeous” was born—a platform dedicated to showcasing the talents of individuals, including myself.

Now, I am excited to join forces with Restless Urban with the title of Cultural Commentator, marking the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Restless Urban is a vibrant community and marketplace for midlife adults, focussed on storytelling, creativity, and self-expression.

However, as I sit here, sharing my background with you, I hear the sound of a loud record scratch in my head—like a DJ who just realized he accidentally dropped the wrong track. Let’s be real; life isn’t always martinis and caviar. Sometimes, it’s more like instant coffee and leftover meatloaf. My life is a series of delightful missteps.

It’s nuanced.

At this stage in my life, I don’t have all the answers to my many questions. While I’m figuring out what I truly want, I’m taking the time to wander and trust that when I see what I am looking for, it will sparkle. Change is a process, and wealth isn’t solely about money. It’s about finding fulfillment, happiness, love, and a true expression of my spirit.

Amidst all the chaos, storytelling has been my saving grace. It makes me feel alive. I can’t wait to see where it takes me next, and I’m excited to share this journey with all of you.

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