Never too old to learn

Posted at: 06/11/2012 5:07 PM | Updated at: 06/11/2012 6:48 PM
By: Christine VanTimmeren | WHEC.com

At 76 years old, most are probably content with putting their feet up and retiring. But a great grandmother from Fairport says she’ll never stop moving. In fact, she’s still fulfilling life long dreams even today.

There has been so much Maryann Marasco has seen in her 76 years.

Marasco said, “Life isn’t always a bed of roses. It has its up and downs.”

So much life she’s lived.

Marasco said, “I was too busy. Too busy with children, grandchildren, great grandchildren. Two businesses because I also had a real estate company.”

And so much she’s learned.

Marasco said, “We each have gifts, and it's what you do with those gifts throughout your lifetime that make you who you are.”

Maryann’s gift has always been art. But there was always another dream in the back of her mind. So Maryann decided to trade her needle and threat for books and classroom lectures. She went to register at Empire State College. And at 76-years-old, Maryann just received her associates degree in art.

Marasco said, “When that tassel came over, it was like receiving a check for a million dollars.”

Another dream of hers is to be an author. Maryann’s husband, Joe, passed away in 2006 after 52 years of marriage. He’s now being brought back to life in the pages of a book called, “Eternally Yours.”

Marasco said, “Follow your dream. By all means, follow your dream.”

Words of wisdom from a woman who knows. A woman who has been there and a woman who wants to see others’ dreams fulfilled too.

Marasco said, “Her shoulder blades have now become wings and she's begun to sprout and she'll be soaring and flying very shortly and yes I am soaring, I’m still flying and my feet have not touched the ground yet.”

Maryann hopes to have the book published coming up this fall. Maryann will also be starting classes in the fall for her bachelor’s degree and eventually, she wants to get her master’s degree as well.

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