How are you?

I started writing when I was a kid. I made up stories about imaginary people because stepping into another reality brought me comfort, and because the boundlessness of my imagination was much more fun than the constraints of childhood.

I wonder what is bringing you comfort. I wonder how you are doing. Really. Unlike the way that that question gets tossed off a million times a day without waiting for the answer, I would truly like to know: How are you?

It's hard right now. For a million different reasons. If you aren't feeling so great, I encourage you to pick up a scrap of paper and scribble a few sentences. If that feels too much, listen to one song or poem with your eyes closed. If that feels too much, don't do anything. For one full minute, stop yourself, and don't do a darn thing.

If you'd like to be with others, there's a poetry night tonight at 8:30pm (RSVP here to get the Zoom link and sign up here if you'd like to share a poem or two). I'm also offering some classes starting soon, Reading and Writing Memoir and Storytelling, and an Outdoor Writing Meetup next week. And if you need to be on your own, by all means. I spent much of my time as a six year old looking for a closet nobody would find me and my notebook in.

Be in touch if you're so inclined -- I would be delighted to hear how you are, even if the answer is unprintable. Take good care.

J.