I started Create to Heal many years ago working with domestic violence survivors and women in crisis, and now also work with cancer patients, their families and their healthcare teams. Essentially anyone touched by cancer.

I find that the creative writing process and creative expression is the same regardless of challenges faced – domestic violence, cancer or the rigors and joys of daily life. Words often flow from a place deep inside … and, they resonate because of their simplicity, grace and poignancy.

“Finding Peace” is a combination of several short pieces I edited. Oddly enough – or perhaps the real insight is – that many of these words came from a person who speaks very little English. In her translation process from one language to another, she picked her words carefully, sparingly and from the heart.

Finding Peace

Before, 

there were doors

with no exits.

Now, all is calm

and the doors are

wide open …

in a place

where the Wind

also rejoices.

I am steadily moving forward

like the River.

I am at peace.

I am home.

I believe it is possible to find “home” wherever we are, with the people we’ve only just met.