I smiled gently as I read the title of an email. Not what I expected see that Thursday morning. But, it sure made my day. I wouldn't consider myself a poet. I'm passionate about writing on topics of chronic pain, disability, faith, dance, and will sometimes dive into fictional stories that are stiring in my mind. Poems? I often feel stuck even when attempting to write one. Though I have been more in this past year. Writing poetry feels almost like learning a foreign langauge.

Yesterday, was a day to celebrate mothers. This year, I decided to write a poem for my mom, who has blessed my life more than she will ever know. For those who didn't know, my mom was the one who encouraged me to start a blog. She thought that I had a story to share. But, I also wanted others to be able to relate to this poem. And if you don't have a mom or one you are close with, I hope there is another lady, a mentor or teacher who fills that role. Happy Mother's Day! When

When I was nineteen, I participated in a research study on chronic pain and art. It was conducted remotely through a university in California. The topic interested me as someone who lives with chronic pain and is passionate about the arts. From there, I sent a brief email to one of the students in the psychology department. After some emails back and forth on scheduling, I had a short interview. This was one of the first times I shared openly about my CMT with someone that

I needed a break, an escape from various stresses, so I went to the library. I often find myself longing for a change in scenery. In fact in a more recent counseling session, my therapist encouraged me to find a space where I could take a break. I would prefer it being at the beach, but as you know, that's a little more challenging physically. I've come to realize that I can get overwhelmed easly when there is added stress and it increases my pain. And of course that's not go