Eight
When COVID started to escalate in the U.S., I heard stories of the burden on health care workers, massive layoffs, parents with no child care, vital workers putting themselves at risk, threats of eviction, food shortages, and disruption of the food supply system. I had moved into an apartment with my four daughters in February, after a year and a half of a “nesting” arrangement that left me homeless 1/3 of the time. I was so grateful to have a place to live, and to have food, family, and good health. I wanted to do something to help.
I pulled my sewing machine out of a closet and made a few masks. They came out ok. But I wanted to offer something with no strings attached. <wink> As a performance poet, I also felt a need for creative expression. Without any outlet for live performance, I decided to make a video version of one of my poems expressly for you to watch at home, wherever you are in the world.
By chance I encountered Roger Ingraham, a filmmaker whose credits included a short film called “Awakening.” His talent, commitment and enthusiasm for the project resulted in a collaboration that exceeded what I envisioned my poem could be, and the making of it was an adventure in itself.
I offer you this gift of light in dark times.
We are all connected. I am grateful you are here.
