I wrote this poem about and to Al Gilbert, and the unconditional way he gave to me and changed my life. He was not only my dance teacher. He became like a second father to me. Here is a link…
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Reflections of My Heart: Years Passing
I wrote this poem about the challenges I have had in my life. And how, one at a time, I overcame them to become a voice of hope for everyone, regardless of disability—visible or invisible. Years Passing When I…
Reflections of My Heart: Wondering
I wrote this poem after having a vision. A plan for my future. Of wanting better for myself. Of working hard in every way. And, one by one, facing, seeking, and making dreams come true. Most importantly, seeing who I…
Reflections of My Heart: Wilting Daisy
In 1993, my husband Chris and I visited Joshua Tree National Park, which I had never seen before. His mother lived nearby in Yucca Valley, so we took a day hike. Out of respect for all the reptiles of the…
Reflections of My Heart: Why
I wrote this poem in 1983 for Al Gilbert, who was an absolute angel in my life. From my early childhood (age three), he taught me, he cared for me, and he loved me—teaching me to dance and healing my…
Reflections of My Heart: Weaving
Back in 1983, on a night walk, I looked down. And there before me was a cocoon, with the caterpillar still weaving it in the moonlight, on the sidewalk where I stood. I stopped, looked, and smiled. This was the…
Reflections of My Heart: Wanderer
In 1989, a woman wandered the streets of Santa Monica, homeless, disheveled, emaciated. Every day, I saw her in the same spot, and my heart went out to her, so I stopped what I was doing and said a silent…
Reflections of My Heart: Turbulent
In the summer of 1982, I was midway through my college education. My life had never been completely calm. Because I am disabled with cerebral palsy, left-side hemiplegia, and dyslexia, it has been a series of conflicts. And not because…
Reflections of My Heart: Traveling Rhythms
I wrote this poem in late 1983 while in college. During this time, learning by studying was a goal and expectation. I was determined to let nothing stop me from becoming more educated so I could thrive. Even though there…
Reflections of My Heart: Transparent Whiskers
One sunny day back in 1983, I walked to a neighborhood park that had a shallow, still pond. When I sat by the water, I sat to calm my racing mind. But as I sought repose, I observed ripples in…