05/13/2026
The parent child relationship is the only relationship in human existence that is one directional. The parent gives. The child receives. That is not selfishness from the child. That is biology. And when that direction reverses, the child's brain pays the price.
Here is the science. A child's developing brain requires consistent, predictable care from a regulated adult. When a parent starts leaning on a child for emotional support, confiding adult problems, or expecting the child to manage their feelings, the child's nervous system shifts into hypervigilance. They stop focusing on play and exploration. They start focusing on keeping the parent okay. That role reversal, called parentification, raises cortisol, disrupts attachment, and increases anxiety and depression risk later in life.
The real life impact is invisible but heavy. The child who acts like a little adult, who comforts you after a bad day, who never throws tantrums because they are too busy managing your mood, is not mature. They are adapting to a role no child should fill. The parent child relationship is the only one that demands nothing back. When it starts demanding, something breaks.
You are not your child's friend, therapist, or partner. You are their safe place to fall apart. Keep the direction clear. Their brain depends on it.
05/06/2026
Hi Love Agent,
We’ll have a booth at this mental health fair with the City of Lawrenceville!
Cindy Wentz Levi & I will be at the booth with 2 youth leaders. Will you please share this on social and with family & friends. The more the merrier!
The Love Box booth will have a love note writing station, Build a Love Box area & friendship bracelets. Hope to see ya there. 💚💛💚
03/15/2026
After giving birth, a mother’s brain undergoes remarkable changes to protect her newborn. Research shows that childbirth can cause permanent enlargement of the amygdala, the brain region responsible for processing emotions and threat detection.
This structural change heightens a mother’s sensitivity to sounds and environmental cues, keeping her on alert even during sleep. While men can often sleep through minor noises, new mothers may awaken to the slightest cry or movement, reflecting the brain’s adaptation to caregiving demands.
The amygdala’s hyperactivity helps mothers respond quickly to their infant’s needs, ensuring survival and safety. This heightened vigilance supports bonding, emotional connection, and rapid caregiving responses in early infancy.
The takeaway is clear: the postpartum brain adapts to prioritize infant care. Hyperalertness and disrupted sleep are not weaknesses—they are protective mechanisms designed to support both mother and child during critical developmental stages.
02/27/2026
Atlanta Live (02/26/26) Christine Martinello's Original Love Box, Jack & Diane Colson's Testimony
Aurea McGarry talks with Christine Martinello, Jack & Diane ColsonMusic Guest: Johnathan Bondwww.johnathanbond.org
02/12/2026
Want to join us to spread love and teach the next generation how to love? 💕
01/29/2026
“You don’t have to fix everything today—just take the next loving step forward.” -Christine Martinello
07/30/2025
Harmony.
The blending of music, voices, priorities or people to blend together in wondrous ways. Being on sabbatical has given me time and space to live in more harmony. I've become well aware of when something (or someone) brings me too much stress. Lately, I've been mastering the art of walking away.
I've learned that my own voices and stories replay in ways that are not always harmonious. Then it's time to capture my thoughts and impulses to be in alignment with my priorities and goals. With all the internal and external chatter, it's vital we're clear about what we want and don't want. Then align our time, habits, actions and curiosities in those directions.
My creative side likes to explore and wander and that's good, to a point. Then it's time to come back to center, to harmony and to peace.
Can't tell you how many times I've told people recently, "Let peace be your empire." If it doesn't bring you peace, harmony or energy, release it. Even if it's only in your mind at first. Let go and let God.
What do you do to be harmonious?
04/07/2025
Starting to plan for Easter 🐣 . . .
What are you fixing this year?
The only thing our family has planned so far is coconut cake. Do you have a special recipe?
03/03/2025
"I learned that it is the weak who are cruel, and that gentleness is to be expected only from the strong." — Leo Rosten
Cruelty often stems from insecurity, while true strength manifests as kindness.
The strongest individuals do not need to dominate or belittle others; they uplift and support.
A powerful person leads with compassion, knowing that true authority is built on respect, not fear.