How did you become involved with The Good Listening Project?
Frankie’s parents and I went to school together, and I was at their wedding. So I guess you could say that I’ve known Frankie before he was born. When his mother connected us about our mutual poetry interest, I was in. The mission and values of The Good Listening Project align with my own love of poetry and serving others.
About how many poems have you written for people?
About 100
What’s your writing process like?
I listen to the story and emotions the person is sharing with me, sometimes asking questions to prompt them to share more. Then I use their words, as much as possible, to try to capture their story and feelings. Ideally, the poems become their autobiography of that moment we’ve spent together.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever heard?
W.H. Auden’s definition of poetry: “the clear expression of mixed feelings” is a favorite. Another: “When you do something, you should burn yourself completely, like a good bonfire, leaving no trace of yourself” from Shunryu Suzuki. And yet another, this one from my mother who used this tool with her own drawings/paintings: Write (or draw) with your non-dominant hand. There are so very many others. I keep a notebook of them and refer to it often.
What’s your favorite poem that someone else has written?
I have so many favorites from both well known and lesser-known poets, way too many to even begin here. And from Listener Poets — both the stories and the poems themselves move me.
What’s your favorite poem that you’ve written?
Anytime my latest poem seems to be accomplishing what I had envisioned for it — that becomes a favorite (at least for a short time). Doesn’t happen that often though!
What makes you laugh out loud?
The joy and exuberance of children and dogs. The good humor of family and friends.
