Podcast Summary: The Moth – Valentine's Day Special featuring Aryana Rose, Matthew Dicks, and Sr. Carolyn Martin

Episode Overview: Released on February 9, 2016, The Moth Valentine's Day Special delves into the multifaceted nature of love through three captivating true stories. Hosted by Dan Kennedy, the episode presents narratives that explore love's joys, complexities, and heartaches, aligning with the holiday's emotional spectrum. Recorded live, each storyteller shares their unique experiences under the spotlight, fostering a deep connection with the audience.

1. Aryana Rose – "Love Hurts" (00:04:14 - 11:40)

Background: Aryana Rose recounts her unconventional romantic relationship with a 29-year-old artist named Jean Michel, whom she met in the medieval village of Bruniquel, France. At 45, Aryana embarked on a relationship that defied societal norms and age differences, illustrating her profound connection with Jean Michel.

Key Points:

• Meeting and Attraction: Aryana describes Jean Michel as an extraordinary partner— a talented painter, sculptor, musician blending flamenco and Irish styles, and a lover of nature. His passion and creativity deeply captivated her. “He was the most extraordinary partner I have ever had.” (04:20)

• Shared Experiences: Their relationship was marked by artistic adventures, such as attending music festivals with Jean Michel's band, "Kill the Dog," and exploring old churches clandestinely. Aryana fondly recalls their intimate moments, like climbing churches and sharing music. “We used to sneak inside and look at the paintings. And I always wanted to make love in there.” (06:00)

• Conflict and Realization: The turning point came when Aryana inquired about having children. Jean Michel's enthusiastic response—“I would have plugged them into the sun.” (09:15)—shocked Aryana, as it conflicted with her desire to preserve her hard-earned freedom and her grown children. This revelation led her to confront the viability of their future together.

• Separation and Struggle: Despite deciding to leave Jean Michel, Aryana and Jean Michel struggled for over three years to part ways amicably. Their inability to reconcile their differing life goals created ongoing emotional turmoil. Aryana’s attempts to introduce new girlfriends to Jean Michel, hoping to divert his attention, were futile. “We couldn’t stay away from one another. We’d cry and just didn’t know what to do.” (10:30)

• Reconciliation and Closure: Aryana eventually met a new woman, an author, which provided her the emotional clarity to fully sever ties with Jean Michel. Years later, a serendipitous reunion through Jean Michel’s art signified closure and the enduring impact of their relationship. “When their eyes met and I saw his smile, I knew that it was good.” (11:25)

Notable Quotes:

• “Have you ever seen Iron Man when he puts on his suit? It was. That was my heart.” (09:30)
• “Just be free. Make your dreams come true. Be free even without me.” (10:50)

Insights and Conclusion: Aryana's story underscores the complexities of love that challenges personal freedoms and life plans. It highlights the profound emotional struggles that accompany the decision to prioritize one's own fulfillment over a deeply cherished relationship. Despite the heartbreak, Aryana and Jean Michel maintain a lasting connection, demonstrating that love can endure even after separation.

2. Matthew Dicks – "Game On" (12:29 - 19:16)

Background: Matthew Dicks shares his poignant journey with Laura Marchand, his high school best friend turned girlfriend, and the subsequent fulfillment of a heartfelt promise amidst impending loss. His narrative intertwines youthful romance with the weight of unkept vows, culminating in a testament to enduring love and responsibility.

Key Points:

• Early Relationship and Promise: Matthew reminisces about asking Laura to be his girlfriend on high school steps, establishing a pact to remain friends regardless of their romantic relationship's trajectory. “We made a promise that we would always stay friends and we would always take care of each other.” (12:53)

• Shared Dreams and Challenges: As their relationship blossomed, they created mixtapes expressing emotions they couldn't verbalize, symbolizing their deepening bond. Their perfect first attempted kisses at Disneyland, despite initial failures, reflected their mutual affection and underlying insecurities. “I realized a perfect kiss is not really dependent upon location as much as technique.” (16:45)

• Tragic Revelation and Broken Promise: Laura's diagnosis with cancer forces Matthew to confront his earlier promise. Despite initially delaying his commitment to document Laura's stories, the gravity of her illness propels him to honor his vow. “I’m terrified to think that she died wondering if Ava and Tess would know the things she wanted them to know.” (18:50)

• Fulfillment of the Promise: Matthew returns to his hometown to fulfill his commitment to record Laura’s stories, ensuring her legacy lives on for her daughters, Ava and Tess. This act signifies his growth and dedication, transforming grief into meaningful remembrance. “I promised her I would... capture every memory she wanted and put it down so I could share it when the girls were old enough someday.” (19:10)

Notable Quotes:

• “I fell in love with Laura Marchand.” (14:20)
• “Our perfect first kiss.” (18:55)

Insights and Conclusion: Matthew's narrative delves into the themes of love, responsibility, and the enduring nature of promises made in moments of vulnerability. His journey from youthful romance to honoring a commitment in the face of loss exemplifies the profound impact love can have on one's sense of duty and legacy. The story underscores the importance of keeping promises and cherishing memories, even amidst sorrow.

3. Sr. Carolyn Martin – "Sister Stories" (20:14 - 29:48)

Background: Sister Carolyn Martin reflects on a transformative teenage experience that led her to embrace a life of faith and service as a Catholic sister. Her story intertwines youthful aspirations with a profound spiritual awakening, illustrating the profound decisions that shape one's destiny.

Key Points:

• A Fateful Encounter: During a carefree teenage drive with her friend Celia, Sister Carolyn is invited to perform music at the Little Sisters of the Poor home for the elderly. This experience exposes her to the serene joy of the sisters, sparking a deep spiritual introspection. “I realized that right here in this room, right before my eyes, time was touching eternity.” (23:30)

• Spiritual Awakening and Conflict: Witnessing the sisters' unwavering faith and the poignant moments of life approaching death propels Sister Carolyn to question her life's path. Despite being in a serious relationship and having envisioned a traditional future, she feels a divine call to dedicate her life to religious service. “I knew I believed in God. I knew at that moment that whatever number of years... I wanted those years to be very meaningful.” (25:00)

• Heartache and Sacrifice: The decision to join the convent necessitates the painful disclosure to her boyfriend, leading to emotional turmoil for both. The farewell at her entrance ceremony vividly captures the sorrow of parting from a cherished relationship for a higher calling. “He couldn't make that cold drink last any longer, he gave her the empty cup, took one last look at me… and disappeared.” (28:00)

• Enduring Love and Acceptance: Despite choosing a life of greater love and spirituality, Sister Carolyn acknowledges the lasting impact of her past relationship. She finds solace in her faith, integrating her love for her former boyfriend into her spiritual existence. “I still love him, but my heart is expanded to this great love that accepts and welcomes everybody that God sends into my life.” (29:20)

Notable Quotes:

• “I want the pearl of great price, and I want it.” (22:15)
• “I’ve never regretted saying yes to God's beautiful plan for my life.” (29:40)

Insights and Conclusion: Sister Carolyn Martin's story highlights the profound intersection of personal desires and spiritual calling. It explores the courage required to forsake personal happiness for a higher purpose, emphasizing that true love can take many forms, including selfless devotion to faith. Her narrative serves as an inspiring testament to the power of spiritual awakening and the enduring nature of love beyond conventional relationships.

Final Thoughts: This Valentine's Day Special of The Moth masterfully presents diverse narratives that encapsulate the essence of love in its various manifestations—from romantic passion and heartbreaking sacrifice to spiritual devotion and enduring commitment. Each story, rich with emotional depth and personal insight, offers listeners a profound understanding of what it means to love, lose, and ultimately find meaning in connection. Through Aryana Rose's artistic romance, Matthew Dicks's heartfelt promise, and Sister Carolyn Martin's spiritual journey, the episode paints a comprehensive portrait of love's enduring impact on the human experience.

Notable Quotes Across the Episode:

• Aryana Rose: “Have you ever seen Iron Man when he puts on his suit? It was. That was my heart.” (09:30)
• Matthew Dicks: “I fell in love with Laura Marchand.” (14:20)
• Sr. Carolyn Martin: “I’ve never regretted saying yes to God's beautiful plan for my life.” (29:40)

Conclusion: The Moth’s Valentine's Day Special offers an evocative exploration of love's complexities, celebrating its ability to shape lives, inspire sacrifices, and create lasting legacies. Whether through the lens of personal relationships or divine calling, the storytellers provide an intimate glimpse into the myriad ways love defines and enriches our lives.