Emily Dickinson a wonderful 19th Century poet who was not well known at all in her lifetime. However, she has come to be regarded as one of the most important figures in American Poetry. I find her life quite fascinating and feel a strange connection with this kindred spirit.

She spent most of her adult life in isolation, corresponding with her few friends and acquaintances through written correspondence. Out of her nearly 1800 known poems only about 10 were published during her lifetime! Doesn’t that just blow your mind a little. Or perhaps it gives one a little hope that one’ life’s work is not for naught.

We never know if our life will become a legacy. In fact, in a way, we have a duty to share our voices and creativity with the world. It is also believed that most of her prolific poetry was born from her experiences of death, illness, bereavement and loss.

Whether we are ‘creatives’ or not, every human has something to offer that is magnificent and unique. We do not need to wait for a following before we follow the call of our hearts. As a matter of fact — and choice — I have found when I am doing something without attaching to the outcome it serves myself and others better.

Though she is known to have written much about the topics of death and immortality, this excerpt from her poem ‘Hope’ offers a superb metaphor about the resilience of the human spirit.

Hope requires little from us except to never give up and always keep trying.

Sending you the light of hope today.