I have had a difficult three years. I often have trouble expressing my feelings to myself and to others. I often do not know what I am feeling. The pain of the last three years is buried so deep that for the first time in my life I do not know how to unpack my feelings. And when I start to unpack them, I often do not know exactly how to express what I am feeling. I guess I am saying I often do not know how I feel.

I came upon a book at the local library, Write a Poem, Save Your Life: A Guide for Teens, Teachers, and Writers of All Ages by Meredith Heller. It is a fantastic book. Write a Poem, Save Your Life is a book that uses poetry as a therapeutic tool for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.

For beginning poets like myself the book offers prompts and guidance for navigating life’s challenges like depression, trauma, and identity issues and how to express deep, painful feelings through poetry. It’s designed for all ages, providing practical, step-by-step methods for using creative writing to process emotions, build self-esteem, and find purpose, featuring student examples and advice for teens, adults, teachers, and therapists. I will soon write a book review.

But for now, I invite you to come along with me on my journey to understanding, reading, and writing poetry. You will not regret it!