“I want to write poetry that heals the soul.”

Last night, my daughter, Elya, expressed this desire after she read her poem, “The Loss of Innocence,” to me. She is exploring the idea that self-forgiveness breaks the cycle of shame that perpetuates addiction and abuse. Her desire is for those who have suffered from abuse as children will receive the grace to heal so that they will not abuse others. I like the way she thinks and do believe that one of the most powerful forms of creative living is to use our artistic talents to help others. You can read more of her poetry at http://elyafiller.wordpress.com/.

Photo by Josiah Filler, Kruger Park, South Africa