This week's poem is called Where There's Faith, written by Darrell, with the intention to self-soothe. I hope it can be a resting place, a reminder, or a conduit for you. Maya Angelou used to say that listening to the quiet is very important, and I take her words to heart, especially in today's noise. Let's breathe.

This week, I've had the pleasure to sit down with my friend, Jessica Hariprasad (She/her), an incredible visual artist, teacher, reader, and lover of the arts, to discuss our times spent with a really special book. Sit with us as we dive into our experiences reading "Into The light" by Mark Oshiro (This is NOT a spoiler free experience!), and reflect on the central theme of queerness and identity throughout this beautifully told story, and what it means to the both of us as individuals.

Mark Oshiro (they/them) is an award winning Atlanta based author who's creations include a span of heart-touching books like: "Anger is A Gift," "Each of Us A Desert," "The Sun and the Star: A Nico Di Angelo Adventure," and more.

This week, I'm exploring/recalling my times spent with five special books that have served as "lanterns" in my life so far this year; Feelings by Manjit Thapp, Speak by Tunde Oyeneyin, Finding Me by Viola Davis, I Did a New Thing by Tabitha Brown, & You Matter-a poetry book by Instagram writer Dhiman. These books have held me and encouraged me to stretch from feelings, and toward being my bridge. As I revisit what these reads mean to me, I recall the synchronicities, revelations, and nuggets I experienced during each time. They've supported me during a huge period of inner exploration. Maybe one of these books can do the same for you along your journey! <3