Several years ago I attended a seminar taught by the gifted writer, Sue Monk Kidd. During the two-day conference, she taught freely from her repertoire of writing craft and technique. But more, her foundational message to the artist writer was this: “If you don’t speak your voice, the world will miss a measure of healing.” That comforting and affirming message provided courage for me to begin sounding my own voice—at that time silenced by the censors in my head murmuring, “Why bother?” and “You’re not good enough.” “You work has no value.”

There are myriad and valuable websites offering methods and tools to help people improve their writing. My intent, though, is not so much to provide tools, but rather to offer validation and to inspire bravery for the next step, whatever that is for you.

One of my favorite symbols is the open gate. I believe that there are many more open gates on the artist’s path than we may realize. I have spent countless and wasted hours shaking and banging on locked gates, my hands clinched and sore. I have missed the unlocked portals right beside me. Often, it is only a matter of being willing to unfurl my fingers and move toward the open gateway.

I trust this site will offer you rest and refuge. Your voice is priceless. My hope is that you find your open gate—that you walk through.