Adolescent voices ring in my ears constantly. The drive to give voice to the pain I witness in the lives of young people led me to write poetry and personal essays about what I've experienced. The factory-model of education perpetuates a life-style that offers no hope or the necessary life skills needed by students who are faced with the demise of manufacturing in Mid-Michigan. Yet, the resilience of the young people I teach continually astonishes – students whose experiences range from death in their family, abandonment by parents, and multiple forms of abuse . I have seen my students rise above painful circumstances and reach for their dreams. They have inspired me to recognize my own selfishness, and commit to a lifestyle that celebrates personal growth. The courage of my students inspires me, enabling me to become a person who risks, as I enlarge the boundaries of my life, stepping outside what I previously defined as comfortable.

Ideas for getting my poetry published; feedback on my posts to my blog/website

Feedback on writing, particularly poetry. Also, excellent at editing for conventions/grammar.