"Receiving your notes for the first time in my mailbox on version one of my manuscript. Shaky and nervous, I sat at my altar and tore them open with a sense of panic. I realized as I began to read them, that they were not at all the negative, discouraging, and careless feedback I'd expected (based on my past experience with writing teachers and poetry mentors). They were so precise, kind, and encouraging, I wept. Thoughtful and articulate, you guided me to let go of anything that was getting in the way of the true poem I had written, while simultaneously encouraging me to appreciate what a beautiful poem it was and what good work I was doing. It changed me, and my relationship to myself as a poet. Working with you was truly a healing experience for me. To have your mentorship was a great gift."
—Aiyana M., 2019, A Body of Work