I've been writing poetry for most of my life, but finally found success in my twenties with print literary magazines (pre-digital litmags!). I had many poems published, was mentored by an editor of one literary magazine, and even ran my own for a bit. Then the fiction bug bit, and I went on hiatus for twenty-five years. A few years ago, I decided to start again, not knowing the market, not knowing anyone, not even knowing if I was even capable of writing poetry anymore. It. Was. Terrifying. It still is. While I am used to rejection, this is different because it is something that's so new again. And it does hurt. But with each rejection, I learn more. With each poem I write, I get better. And even if I never publish another poem again, I can at least say that I gave it another try. I didn't give into fear. I put myself out there again....after twenty-five years of silence.

I've had a few things published since starting again. Not a lot, but I'm damn proud of each and every one of them.