Oct 10

What It Takes

Posted on October 10, 2015 by janisstein

By Allison Stein

When a thought captivates my mind, it dominates the very cadence of my heartbeat.

Take the summer of 2012. In those pivotal moments, I promised myself that I had the stamina to publish a book. Although I ultimately championed impregnable faith, reverberations of fear reminded me that my dream was a mere delusion: I had no idea what it took to be a writer. All I knew was that nobody could hear the suppressed emotions incessantly screaming inside me—the muffled words pounding through my chest—and writing made people listen. If I was a prisoner to self-doubt, words were my liberation. Poetry gave me a voice.

But what if destiny silenced my voice? The minute I sat down with my unpolished manuscript, I realized how awkward I felt holding a red pen and telling myself that my amateur work was worth revision. Still, I persisted. Flipping through The Chicago Manual of Style in pursuit of a grammatical epiphany felt so right. I could not help believing that my life had just begun.

As I scrutinized the draft, however, insecurities became entangled in the intricate tapestry of my heartstrings. Was my poetry resonant enough to reach an audience? Suddenly, my soul felt cold. How could someone like me even imagine possessing the magical touch of an author? All I had were a borrowed three-ring binder, enough trust to take the road less traveled, and my stubborn drive to make a difference.

***

Three years later, I treasure a binder of my own. With two poetry collections and an editing position for an online magazine, I have become familiar with the road less traveled. I cherish the blessings of friends and mentors who have changed my life, and I pray that I, too, have rekindled others’ dormant hope.

This journey has been challenging but enriching: I have learned to take chances I would never trade for the security of my comfort zone. Because these risks have led to unexplored—and enriching—avenues, I have relished unforgettable memories, iridescent dreams, and newfound discoveries of what it takes to be a writer:

  • Writing takes courage. Before the release of my first book, publication petrified me. Consumed by the vulnerability inevitable in revealing secrets to strangers, I almost forgot that dreams are worth the fear; paralyzed by the prospect of turning wishes to reality, I was scared that I was going to get hurt. Luckily, my shortsighted mindset faded as I submerged myself in the immersive endeavor of sharing my work with the world. Even though I did get hurt sometimes, those experiences are gems: They have taught me how strong I am.
  • Writing takes faith. Doubt pulsed through my veins. What if my all-encompassing goal was only a silhouette of my overactive imagination? What if this breathing, palpitating dream—this vision that loomed beyond the scope of tangibility—was as fickle as a mirage? Although the battle of convincing my community that I had the passion and perseverance to become a writer was daunting, the harder-won victory was the moment I convinced myself.
  • Writing takes love. What if readers cannot connect with the poetry I know as well as my heartbeat? What if no one listens? The worries were relentless; worse, I struggled to offer myself any consolation, for I recognized the merit of my fears. After excavating the insights of two chapbooks, however, I wish I had the opportunity to empower my past self with truth. This is the promise I would make to her: “Words set souls free. Even if you never get to revel in the privilege of publication, the ecstasy of creating each draft—of watching each silhouette of your manuscript emerge in more lucid intensity—will be beautiful and breathtaking in itself. Be brave.”
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Sep 02

Poem: The Passion of Poetry

Posted on September 2, 2015 by janisstein

By Allison Stein

Poetry is powerful and empowering. One of my greatest joys is the gift of sharing previously intangible experiences with others and reliving beautiful moments, now alive and palpable. Through my work, I strive to offer hope and courage to strangers: I want my words to be remembered, to become people’s personal fight songs. The following poem encapsulates my dream to make a difference with my writing—to change lives through the craft I so passionately believe in.

The Passion of Poetry

Too much is hidden within us:
Dreams trapped in our imaginations,
Thoughts contained in single souls,
And invisible tears of heartbreak.

Creating poems out of passion,
Poets reveal their secrets
And turn feelings into words—
Expressions of beauty and love.

One day we read a poem
And relate to the lines;
Two minds fill with the same wonder.
Stanzas sing in both our hearts.

Rhymes echo our thoughts,
And we understand the world;
Sharing what haunts and entices
Is the purity and passion of poetry.
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Aug 20

Believe

Posted on August 20, 2015 by janisstein

By Allison Stein

“We’re here,” Mom announced.

I swallowed hard. This was the moment I had spent so long waiting for, worrying about, dreaming of. I already knew I’d never forget the night, one of the first times I would read my poetry aloud. Sure, my mom would give the main presentation, and I’d only chime in with a couple poems to gain experience and transition into speaking, but the five minutes I would stand at the podium were daunting in themselves. While I was still discovering the person I am today—still becoming the person I am today—how could I be expected to share that journey with others through my work?

Yet two years ago, I did just that. I barely had time to listen to my reverberating heartbeat, pulsing through my skin in fear, as Mom and I entered the Sleeper Public Library in Ubly. For a blissful moment, I was too awestruck to be scared. That evening, my dreams were coming true. My name was flashing on a sign, my picture was displayed in the library, and best of all, my mind was filled with images of making a difference.

Words crashed like waves against my daydreams. “You’ll be in this room,” the librarian told us with a smile. “Oh, do you mind if our library cat joins you? His name is Booker.”

I glanced at Mom. She wasn’t a fan of cats but reluctantly said that Booker would be fine. She had no idea what she was getting herself into.

The minute the librarian left, the sleek, black cat climbed onto the table. “Uh, Mom…”

Once we shooed him down, we went back to setting up. But as I reached into our bag to get some books, I was surprised to see Booker inside!

Sharing a room with this cat just wasn’t working. When the librarian reappeared a little while later to check on us, we sent Booker back.

The mischievous cat was soon forgotten. With the passing of each second, my heart beat faster. The event would start at 6:30, and as that suspenseful minute approached, my nerves were all I could think about.

Maybe that’s why I took so long to realize that nobody was going to show up. Before we’d left home, Mom had delicately assured me that no audience was a real possibility, but I had struggled to believe this. “Surely at least one person will come,” I had told myself.

But I was wrong. No one wanted to hear a novice like me read her rudimentary poems. No one cared what I had to say. Suddenly, my soul felt heavy. Mom was already talking about getting ice cream after this mess was over, but I was too devastated to think about dessert.

All we could do was look out the windows, look at the people passing by in happy ignorance. An elderly man strode through walking his dog; with all my heart, I willed him to come in, but he, too, moved on. At that juncture, I remembered the unruly cat. Why had we been thoughtless enough to kick out our only audience member?

How helpless I felt! And how wrong I had been! Had I truly expected my community to pay attention to someone like me? Deep in my heart, I confessed to myself, I’d been foolish enough to hope so.

Mom’s voice interrupted my doubts. “Allison, listen!”

Footsteps!

My faith returned. The steps came closer, closer…

Silence.

“They’re in the bathroom,” Mom realized with disappointment.

My optimism had nearly faded when, at the last minute (actually, five minutes after the last minute), the door opened. Relief poured over me: We only had an audience of one, but we had an audience! And I had a chance to share the poems I’d injected my soul into.

As Mom and I chatted with the woman, we heard footsteps coming from the bathroom. We exchanged a glance. Sure enough, two more ladies walked in with a couple of elementary-age kids. Mom and I looked at each other again. It was time. It was now or never.

Once again, fear rose inside me. Once again, my heart palpitated. Once again, insecurities crippled me.

But I had come too far to be defeated by the voracious self-doubt eating away at my confidence. I found the courage to believe I could do this.

Then I proved myself right.

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Aug 08

Making a Difference

Posted on August 8, 2015 by janisstein

By Allison Stein

“Whose life am I living?” Too often, I have wrestled with these words. The year I published my first chapbook, the question became a reverberation in my mind—as constant as a heartbeat. An introverted dreamer, I struggled with opening up to others, yet I wished I could share the part of my soul I so closely guarded. How could I show outward confidence when I was fighting an intrinsic battle? How could I embrace my true interests when they defiantly exploited the confines of “normal”? Desperate to fit in, I would sooner disown my passion than admit to my peers that I loved poetry. But compromising myself came with a cost: I felt powerless, even worthless. I became a captive to my insecurities, a prisoner to my fear.

Writing was my liberation. On the page, I could be myself and love myself. Words gave me a voice. Somewhere between the left and right margins, I had discovered a place to belong: I wanted to be a writer.

I identify with the aphorism “Don’t wish for it; work for it.” As soon as I submerged myself in the intricate process of self-publishing, I kept pushing forward. My family and friends reminded me that I could beat the odds and believed in me even as I struggled to find faith in myself. After months of writing, editing, and decisions, I realized just how enriching the experience had been and how much I had grown up. Flipping through the pages of my published poetry collection created an unmatched memory; moreover, my journey had taught me the importance of determination, tenacity, and courage. Now I had an achievement to be proud of.

Except I wasn’t proud. I became ashamed of my far-fetched dreams, the delusions I had championed. Publication wasn’t the victorious finish line I’d imagined; in fact, I had yet to overcome my greatest challenges. How would I get past the doubt that consumed me? When would I come to value myself and my talents? Why did I write?

My mom says sharing her writing is like standing naked in front of a million people; as complete strangers read my heartbreakingly personal poems, I came to have increasing respect for her simile. I had expected to feel accomplished after reaching my goal, but some days, that was hardly the truth. With each book sale, I found myself assuming people would hate my work. The feeling was sickening. Had my endeavors been a waste of time—or worse, a waste of heart?

Pushed into new experiences and out of my comfort zone, I was painfully aware that intense excitement was synonymous with poignant fear. When I was offered the opportunity to give a 20-minute presentation about my book, for example, the joy was once again muffled by my penetrating self-doubt. I remember the moment before I spoke, the defeat in looking out at the audience and telling myself, “I can’t do this!” At that crucial juncture, a friend came up to me and reminded me of all the people who supported and loved me. Even when I’d felt like quitting on myself, they hadn’t given up on me. “Everybody’s here for you. You gotta remember that.” Empowered by my friend’s guidance, I discovered the courage to share my story: the challenges, the failures, the fulfillment. I opened up in a way I never had. My words were raw and genuine: I let my soul speak.

Yet the questions persisted. Would the world think twice if I stopped writing? Was I impacting anyone? Did I matter? Six months after the publication of my book, I found answers.

My book designer had taken an out-of-state trip and met with her friend, a special education teacher. As they compared the projects they had been involved in over the past year, my book designer gave her friend a copy of my book. Suddenly, the teacher became enthusiastic: One of her students, a fourth grader, struggled with school, yet he possessed an exceptional talent for writing. Seeing my poetry collection—realizing that creating a book was within reach—just might give him the push he needed to go further with his work.

After discovering the powerful outreach of my poems, I was awestruck. I had inspired someone miles away to realize his aspirations, and for the first time, I was truly proud of myself. That insightful moment changed my life: Because of a stranger, I hold myself to higher expectations. I no longer assume that readers will find my work abysmal; rather, I hope others relate to my poetry, but if not, I still have faith that my endeavors are worthwhile. Ultimately, my interest in writing has shifted from a passion to an all-encompassing dream—a dream of crystallizing truth, extending compassion, and making a difference.

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Jun 09

Poem: Daybreak

Posted on June 9, 2015 by janisstein

By Allison Stein

Enriched by melodies of birds chirping and rays of sunshine kissing my cheeks, I opened my eyes: The morning held unmatched potential, glistened with brilliant possibility. Any medium other than poetry would have been inadequate to capture nature’s magic. The raw beauty of dawn was mesmerizing, serene, empowering – a memory that begged to be crystallized in words:

Daybreak

I awake to the scent of lilacs
Wafting through the screened window;
At dawn, I scamper outside to greet the day.
I spend a moment absorbing the surrounding beauty
And marveling at spring’s magic.
A whiff of morning air strengthens my ambition.

The alluring sky swipes my attention.
Faint stars fade into invisibility;
A tint of pastel orange gleams
Barely above the skyline;
A silhouette of the moon
Is still chalked across the horizon.

The tranquility of daybreak enchants me,
The intricacy of salmon-colored blossoms
On apple trees mesmerizes me,
And barn swallows composing songs of glory
Leave me awestruck.
I feel safe in the realm of nature.

Maroon tulips are drizzled with dew,
And speckled robins’ eggs glisten.
Wet grass shimmers in the vanishing moonlight;
The blades tickle my bare ankles
As I dream of today’s infinite possibilities.
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Apr 15

How to Write a Free Verse Poem in 10 Steps

Posted on April 15, 2015 by janisstein

by Allison Stein

“Poetry is thoughts that breathe, and words that burn.” Thomas Gray’s words echo my heart’s definition of free verse poetry. This form offers an exciting and profound journey for the writer and reader alike; it gives people a chance to live in unfamiliar worlds created by intangible—but genuine—emotion. As I’ve learned how to improve my free verse poetry over the years, I have developed a writing process that has aided me as I’ve sought to express my ideas; I would like to share that process with you in hopes that you, too, will enjoy crafting free verse poems.

1. Identify What You Love About Poetry: Before you begin your free verse poem, consider what techniques you would like to incorporate. Read a wide range of free verse poetry, select your favorite pieces, and determine why you like them best. Analyze each poem carefully and think deeply about its meaning. You can learn from the work you feel passionate about by emulating some of its aspects. For instance, do you love the imagery and powerful words one author uses? Or do the compelling ideas and strong message from another writer inspire you? Maybe the poems that enthuse you most are those with figurative language, such as metaphor (forming a connection between different people or objects) or hyperbole (stretching the truth to make a point). Experiment with several approaches until you find one that ignites your creativity and showcases your unique voice.

2. Find Inspiration: Free verse poems offer the potential of countless possibilities regarding themes; the key is discovering a topic that creates energy on the page. The subject could be an experience, nature, friendship, family—any idea that you feel a close connection to and can infuse emotion with.

3. Organize Your Thoughts: Undoubtedly, poets have different methods of writing; this gifts us with an enormous variety of poetry. However, that fact causes confusion about how to begin writing as well. Some writers suggest creating a thorough outline of ideas, whereas others believe that any plan stifles their freedom as poets. My advice is to choose whichever style of prewriting feels more natural and brings out the better in your work. If you aren’t sure, you can test out both processes to see which you favor, or you can combine the styles by jotting down words you hope to use but leaving your plan incomplete and thus open for new possibilities.

4. Write Your Heart Out: You, as a poet, have a message to give, and a free verse poem is a wonderful medium for your words. Let your ideas flow, and don’t worry if your poem isn’t exactly how you want it; any shaky areas can be worked out in the essential process of editing. For now, focus on sharing yourself with readers. Remember that you are a passionate writer; let your poem be an encapsulation of that passion.

5. Create Imagery: Imagery is vivid language that transports readers to the realm of your poetry. Not only will the use of this technique immerse readers in your writing, but it is also instrumental in the flow of a piece. To improve the imagery in your work, pay special attention to your word choice; words act as the voice of your work, so you should select them carefully. When deciding on a line, consider using descriptions to further your theme. Incorporating imagery can strengthen a free verse poem exponentially.

6. Express Emotion: Emotion is universal; moreover, it is the aspect of your writing that connects readers to your poem. To add feeling to your work, recall times you’ve been elated or upset, and use these memories to empower your writing. Words offer a clearer perspective on personal experiences; furthermore, once your emotions are illustrated through your poetry, readers can absorb the insight provided by these experiences. Most importantly, expressing emotion in your free verse poetry builds on the message encoded in your words and enables others to better relate to your work.

7. Focus on Your Beginning and Ending: When you write and proofread a free verse poem, keep in mind that the beginning and ending earn special emphasis. The beginning must capture readers’ attention; therefore, a successful start is imperative. The ending needs to be memorable, like the grand finale in a fireworks show; after reading the last word, readers should feel moved, changed, or encouraged. Since these areas have the potential to make the greatest impression on your audience, striving to improve them is essential.

8. Consider the Rhythm: True, rules about rhyme and meter are much less rigid in free verse poems than in other forms of poetry, but the writing of any poem needs to maintain balance and flow in order for readers to best grasp the concepts within. To ensure that the rhythm your words create fits well with your poem, read your writing over, and make note of pauses that throw off the flow; gingerly revisit these lines and decide if adding or removing syllables is a viable solution. Even in a free verse poem, rhythm is a fundamental facet of the writing—and reading—experience.

9. Keep It Concise: Poetry is reputably short; this means that a limited number of words is available to convey the emotion of your writing. Delete any words or phrases that don’t develop your theme. Each letter should contribute to the work as a whole, give motion to your subject, and act as reverberations of the ideas circling your mind as well as the emotions dancing in your heart.

10. Share Your Writing: After putting so much passion into your work, let others take the journey your piece offers. Whether you read your poem, publish it, or simply share it with a friend, you will be giving the world a chance to delve into your unique work. Free verse poetry offers a colossal amount of communication, connection, and encouragement; give people the opportunity to take advantage of those gifts by sharing your writing.

You can view this article and more of my work at www.amazing-kids.org.

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Apr 02

Spring Fever

Posted on April 2, 2015 by janisstein

by Allison Stein

“To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.” Anatole France’s words reverberated in my heart as I gingerly selected a copy of my new poetry collection, Spring Fever, from the box that the FedEx truck had just dropped off. I recalled the time when my chapbook was a mere aspiration, when the moment of holding the finished product seemed so far away. But that time had come, and as I savored this beautiful memory, the possibilities and hopes swirling in my mind mesmerized me. I had finally grasped the goal I had been fighting to achieve, finally overcome the obstacles that threatened me, finally made my dream come true. Undoubtedly, the day I first felt that glossy cover and flipped through the crisp pages of my new book, the rewarding journey of self-publishing took my breath away.

Spring Fever

Spring Fever

Challenges throughout the process were inevitable, but to someone who finds writing as empowering as I do, the endeavor of creating a book is extremely fulfilling. My goal began to transform into reality when I started working on the first draft a couple of years ago; at times, even I struggle to believe that those first scribbles in the margins of my notebooks have developed into the tangibility a book offers. Early on, however, I already imagined the theme of my second poetry collection to be spring. With this fine-tuned scope, I was able to focus on capturing the joy, passion, and faith embedded into the season. Moreover, this approach allowed me to improve the cohesion of my book as a whole; ideally, each poem in the compilation collaborates with the others. Not only did I strive to encapsulate the beauty of spring in words, but I also aimed to convey emotion and express memories and dreams. For as long as I can remember, I have possessed an unspoken – yet lucid – understanding that writing is liberating, and I hope that through my work I can share that freedom with others and encourage them to pursue their dreams. Connecting words to form stanzas and arranging stanzas to fuel a poem, I have immersed myself in an art that I wholeheartedly believe in – an endeavor from which I’ve undeniably discovered fulfillment.

In addition to writing propelling me forward, I have realized that editing is imperative to the self-publishing process. Revisions began with self-editing, a chance for me to scrutinize my work, to determine which poems showcased the book’s potential and which needed to be replaced as well as what aspects of individual poems excited me and what facets required improvement. The project expanded as I sought the opinions and advice of others; for example, I asked one of my mentors to critique my manuscript, and she offered me valuable insight. Furthermore, my mom contributed to the book by helping me strengthen my poetry through revision and giving me guidance about the steps of successful self-publishing. I definitely learned a colossal amount from editing my chapbook; the experience was an opportunity to explore my work on a more intimate level than a first draft allows. I was elated to see the collection starting to take shape, but I knew, too, that an enormous – and, at times, intimidating – margin continued to separate my disorganized stacks of papers and the professional book I envisioned.

Aiming to close that margin, I began to contemplate the lay-out of my chapbook. I am still awestruck by the idea that self-publishing allows a distant dream to become palpable, to become a gift I can share with others; with this mindset, I focused on fonts and design elements that would impact the presentation of my poems. For one, I divided the book into six chapters, each section having its own theme. After I decided on the order of my poems, my book designer, Julie Purdy, emailed samples of both the cover and the interior pages; my mom and I chose styles similar to those of my first chapbook to display the continuity between the volumes while also selecting features that made Spring Fever unique. I was psyched when I saw the talented work Julie had done on the inside of my book, but the cover she had created, which illustrated a rainbow that I found enchanting and believed would be a terrific complement to my poetry, excited me most. Once the designing was finished, I knew that I had reached a pivotal moment in the course of publishing Spring Fever; at this climax, my abstract dream solidified, and my fragmented aspirations connected.

On March 6, that connection strengthened. My unbound proof arrived from DiggyPOD, the Michigan company that had printed my first chapbook. When I saw how brilliant the chapbook’s cover design looked, how enticing and pristine that rainbow appeared, I was astonished, but I knew immediately that my poetry belonged there. The memory of my books being delivered about a week later still echoes in my mind. My heart beating fast, I tore into the box. Seeing Spring Fever was magical, and the physicality of the collection seemed to cement my ideas: I could finally hold in my hands the dream I’d been striving to grasp.

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Feb 19

Poem: Whispers of a Waterfall

Posted on February 19, 2015 by janisstein

By Allison Stein

After agreeing to give my first presentation about my poetry chapbook, Summer Sensations, at the Port Austin History Center in August 2013, I was both ecstatic and anxious. By mid-July, I was somewhat prepared. I had written a speech that illustrated my story of becoming published as well as incorporated readings of my poetry, and thanks to my mom’s patience in listening to me practice, my speaking had gotten better. Furthermore, I was definitely excited to share my writing process; after all, my book had made a profound impact on me by encouraging me to pursue my dreams and urging me to improve.

However, I knew my speech was in need of revision. One weakness that especially stood out to me was how I read my poems. What perplexed me most about this problem was that I couldn’t understand why I shared my work in such a rudimentary way when I tried to read it so passionately. Luckily, before the day of my presentation arrived, a friend and mentor of mine offered to help. She lent me voice recordings of renowned poets reading their words and coached me as I practiced; because of her guidance, my presentation became exponentially better.

My words still struggled to flow from my mouth, but I was determined to teach them to. I printed off the poems I planned to read at my presentations and scribbled notes to myself about where to pause and which words to emphasize. Despite these efforts, I eventually abandoned the idea that learning to read differently was the solution. Inversely, I began to focus on reading naturally. I thought about my mentor; the examples of insightful readings she’d introduced me to were so beautiful because the poets had encapsulated their unique voices as writers. Instead of striving to force words to reverberate from my mouth, I decided, I would let them materialize from my heart. Not only would I read passionately, I told myself, but I would also read genuinely.

And that’s what I did. On August 9, I read several of my poems—including Whispers of a Waterfall, featured below—with the aim to speak sincerely. When the words of Whispers of a Waterfall poured from my soul, I was well-aware of my mentor in the audience; I remembered our practice session that included the poem, realized how far I had come, and felt inexpressibly connected to this poem that had been so instrumental in helping me discover my voice. Yes, I knew my presentation was flawed, but I knew, too, that my efforts had been worthwhile and that I had reached out authentically. And I crossed my fingers that maybe, just maybe, I had inspired someone else to do the same.

Whispers of a Waterfall

The whispers of a waterfall,
The tiny ripples that flow,
Whispering in secrecy
Words no one else will know.

Cascading from the banks
Of the nearby creek,
All of the different whispers
Seem surprisingly unique.

The whispers are beautiful
And send a chill up your spine;
Trickling over the stones,
The waterfall seems divine!

So when you hear the whispers
Forming oval-shaped rings,
Lean in and listen closely;
You might just hear them sing!
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Jan 31

A New Experience

Posted on January 31, 2015 by janisstein

By Allison Stein

“You need to move outside your comfort zone to grow and learn.” The words my mom shared with me years ago have had a colossal effect on me; they’ve taught me that taking chances can create opportunities, widen points of view, and offer fulfillment. For as long as I can remember, the advice has not only encouraged me but also reminded me to push myself to improve, yet only recently did I realize how closely the words translate into my life. In retrospect, I believe that I have constantly thrust myself into experiences that have expanded my comfort zone: making my first submission to an online publication called Amazing Kids! Magazine in 2010, becoming a staff member and contributing writer for the magazine in 2011, and self-publishing a poetry chapbook in 2013. I once again extended my comfort zone a couple of months ago when I was offered a column editor position for Amazing Kids! Magazine and became the publication’s poetry editor. This experience led to reverberations of my mom’s wisdom as I learned hands-on the importance of reaching beyond my area of security to grasp the possibilities that could further enrich my endeavors and dreams.

I am thankful that I took this risk first and foremost because of the helpful, encouraging people I have met as a result. For instance, I have begun corresponding with the other Amazing Kids! editors and forming connections with fellow lovers of writing, all of whom are working toward a simultaneous goal. The experienced editors have been eager to show me each step of the editing process, which is much more intricate than I realized. Moreover, their invaluable guidance has been immensely appreciated as I’ve been discovering my unique styles of organization and revision. They’ve enabled me to learn from their talent and gain skills as both an editor and a writer. The willingness of the editors to share their expertise with me has illustrated to me what a supportive group of people I am part of.

In addition to gaining knowledge from other editors, my position gives me the ability to communicate with writers who submit work to the magazine. When I read their poems, I feel the connection writing offers the world. I treasure the privilege of sending acceptance emails and explaining why I enjoy pieces because I know how much I have appreciated the responses some editors have given me in the past. At times, writers have thanked me in reply, and these words have touched my heart beyond expression. Undoubtedly, sharing excitement with writers reminds me why I need to push beyond the stifling area of my comfort zone. The people I have worked with have given subtle but powerful encouragement to break the blockade of obstacles that surrounds my goals and finally grasp distant aspirations.

Not only has extending my comfort zone enabled me to meet supportive people, but widening my range of experiences has opened my heart to new ideas that have changed the ways I think of writing and editing. Exploring a different aspect of my passion has redefined my goals by conquering the limits of my viewpoint and allowing me to immerse myself in the discovery of all dimensions of my passion. Since beginning my position in December, I have read poetry submissions, selected manuscripts I feel match the outlook of Amazing Kids! Magazine, and worked on minor revisions involving grammar as well as formatting; these tasks have made me more aware of my editing process and more determined to push myself to create stronger writing. Furthermore, choosing pictures to complement poems has helped me gingerly consider the theme of each and consequently better understand the meaning, purpose, and message. Last but not least, having the opportunity to communicate with writers who submit poems has given me a greater sense of the community of those who share my passion. Focusing on different facets of my love of writing has certainly enabled me to wholly immerse myself in my craft.

Besides allowing me to experience new aspects of the power of words, being the poetry editor for Amazing Kids! Magazine has offered me a special perspective. For example, I’ve realized the immense amount of careful thought, synergy, and dedication that goes into each issue and have gained a profound appreciation for both the editors I work with and the writers who send their poetry. I have also reached a more thorough comprehension of the reasons behind acceptances and rejections; often decisions are made based on the magazine’s audience as well as the merit of a submission. Moreover, after analyzing the poetry I review, I have integrated my new skills and strategies into my writing process and developed ways to improve my words. This perspective has given me the chance to see writing from a distant point of view and to look at my interest through a clearer lens. The knowledge I’ve gained from the poetry editor position has been incredibly worthwhile; my new viewpoint has gifted me with immeasurable insight.

Finally, working with the online magazine has been fulfilling and rewarding. I often find myself sifting through my memories as I communicate with writers; this nostalgia reminds me precisely why I cherish the opportunity to be the publication’s poetry editor. I wistfully remember my first acceptance – ironically, from Amazing Kids! Magazine. The thoughtful email I received is what I aim to emulate when I tell writers why Amazing Kids! is eager to publish their pieces. Likewise, I reminisce seeing my work online for the first time; those moments are ones I will never forget. Even when my writing was rejected after I sent it to Amazing Kids! in hopes of publication, I found that this magazine managed to be supportive and offer constructive criticism about why it was declining to post my work. This magazine was special. My memories urge me, too, to strive to be a source of encouragement others will always treasure.

Not only do my memories make the position rewarding, but I also consider editing poetry fulfilling since I know the exponential difference publication can make. The readers of Amazing Kids! Magazine, for one, are impacted; I have seen firsthand how writing affects readers after delving into work that has left unique impressions on me. Furthermore, I have the chance to motivate writers like my mentors have done for me. I view each correspondence as an opportunity to encourage and collaborate. Above all, my purpose as poetry editor is to make a difference to the readers and writers of Amazing Kids! – to create greater insight with our shared passions and ambitions. Unquestionably, the position has been extremely rewarding; after participating in the project for only a couple of months, I realize that pursuing faraway goals is imperative.

From editing poetry, I have definitely learned the essential of pushing myself to aim for experiences that test my confidence. Immersing myself in an art that I genuinely love and sincerely believe in has lent me renewed aspirations and strengthened passion. The position has given me palpable enthusiasm; it has encapsulated my motivation to conquer the limits of my comfort zone. Ultimately, the more willing I am to overcome these restrictions, the closer I am to discovering the extent of possibilities – and realizing that the potential of passion is truly infinite.

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Dec 29

Why I Love Writing

Posted on December 29, 2014 by janisstein

By Allison Stein

I feel consolation from picking up a pencil and letting my ideas and dreams pour out as gracefully as a waterfall; later, when the ripples have smoothed out, I pursue the challenge of scrutinizing the text and improving the words. As if capturing the scenic vacation memory on film, I can grasp my own expression and reach the liberation only words bring. Like sharing pictures – and thus giving others a chance to experience moments previously intangible – writing can turn silence into echoes of truth, reverberations of genuine emotion. Undoubtedly, I love writing; less definite are the reasons, vague and impalpable, yet they ignite my passion. Exploring these reasons is key to discovering how writing has changed me, made me stronger, and opened my heart to unfamiliar endeavors and new friendships.

The primary cause of my love for words is my instinctive passion to gift unnamed sensations with physicality. Creative expression feels raw and pure, bold and sincere. I am mesmerized by the influence powerful writing has on its readers, by the possibilities a beautiful word encapsulates. Seemingly by magic, writing grants me the ability to transform the inspiration of wondrous nature into a language that others understand; words communicate like constellations, connecting people by shared messages. My heart would feel desolate if my emotions were destined to remain untouched, censored, alone. Delving into the realm of expression is a joyful journey, one I look forward to each time I write.

Not only does this passion originate from the excitement of recording my memories to share with others, but it also has helped me find hidden strength and discover courage I have often forgotten exists. I have learned to believe in my dreams, to enjoy the inevitable difficulties involved in meeting goals, and to treasure the moments of failure as well as success. I have learned to focus on sharing my story instead of doubting my abilities. I have learned that courage means ignoring fear and remembering the people who have made me stronger. Most importantly, I have learned that new, intimidating, overwhelming experiences are often my most rewarding endeavors because they teach me immeasurably. The passion that surges through me when I write continues to redefine itself as I learn more but consistently reminds me that I love writing.

In addition to pure passion, writing has offered me the chance to become closer to my community members. They have supported me and illustrated the synergy instilled in those who are part of a successful group. My family and friends have always encouraged me to make my dreams come true, and I am grateful for their dedication to our friendships. My mentors, too, have gifted me with their encouragement; they have urged me to continuously push myself farther and to keep working toward my goals. Plus, my writing experiences have enabled me to meet new people, many of whom have taught me to be a better writer. This priceless support has shown me how I hope to help others someday: through direction, encouragement, and love.

I have realized that I want to make a difference with my writing. I hope to offer the motivation that others have offered me and impact someone like my supporters have affected me. I imagine sharing messages, creating memorable manuscripts, and giving readers a strong takeaway to relate to. Above all, I dream of helping people – of giving them the opportunities others were generous enough to give me. Making a difference to those who have had such an influence on me would be one of those special gifts writing gives. Becoming more connected to my community enlivens my ideas and, without doubt, is a result of my passion for words.

Writing has definitely taught me more about the person I am. The process of changing inspiration to expression and expression to connection is contenting, enticing, and beautiful. I enjoy reminiscing about my past experiences in the realm of words, just as I enjoy imagining how I will continue to grow and become stronger. Remembering why I love what I do – why I authentically, unquestionably believe that my dreams are worthwhile – is essential to unlocking the increasing passion that lures me forward.

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