What drew you to write poetry versus another format?

The Bible. I always say my Father taught me how to paint with words because the Bible is very poetic. When God speaks, His words seem to give you the ability to see His heart. I find that really fascinating. Poetry is able to convey things in such a way that you can almost feel what the writer feels and see what they see. It provides a sort of depth to words that makes the reader stop and take notice. I can tell you something is beautiful and at a glance you may agree or disagree, but I can describe it in such a way that even if you eventually disagree, you are made to stop and really take notice of it. That is the beauty and power of poetry.

What inspired you to write this book?

My mother was my greatest inspiration for this book. I wanted to tell the world about her and the impact her absence was having in my life. However, when I reflect, I would say the feeling of loneliness was a driving force. Surviving a tragedy or multiple tragedies can feel very isolating because not many people understand what it’s truly like. Some even project their perceptions and weight of their expectations on you. At times, it feels as though you have to defend your grief, exposing it raw and saying here, see, this is why my heart is breaking. It can also feel as though you’ve been placed in the “other” category. It’s the “normal” people with their normal lives and then there’s you with a wound on your world. I wanted to reach out to those “others”.

What need do you see in the world that this book helps fill?

Hopelessness. I have seen many people who have been maimed by their past and have lost hope. I especially see this with people who have had to endure multiple hardships and traumatic experiences. I believe much of the world is sighing heavily from the exhaustion of living with wounds and in need of hope.

What do you hope readers experience when they read your work?

It has always been my prayer that as people read this book, it is hope that their heart sees. I pray that they experience freedom. I pray that this book opens the door to hard conversations. I also pray that the very real issue of human trafficking in all its forms, is given the attention that it deserves.

How has poetry been impactful in your own life? Which poets inspire your own writing?

Poetry allows me to express myself. It helps me process difficult emotions. There may be times I don’t know how to verbally put into words what I’m feeling, but once I take pen to paper, the words flow freely. Above all, poetry has allowed me to paint hope with words.

My favorite poet/ author of all time is C.S. Lewis. I believe there is a depth of wisdom that is borne through suffering and to be able to take that pain and turn it into purpose in helping others, is truly remarkable.