Poems For the Military Veteran, the American Worker, and the American Spirit celebrates the veterans, workers, families, freedoms, and everyday acts of perseverance that you see as the foundation of American character and life. What inspires you to write poetry?

My feelings about life tend to be deep, intense, and raw. Poetry allows me to express what I’m feeling openly and honestly. When I’ve gone through difficult trials and encountered frustrating situations, writing poetry is a healthy release so the feelings aren’t repressed or ignored.

How have your own experiences shaped the way you write about veterans, service, sacrifice, and returning home?

My writing is shaped by listening and showing empathy. I’ve had the honor to teach second and third graders at a base school, and I’ve heard and seen children weep when their parent is deployed and the burdens military families carry emotionally and financially can be very stressful. My poetry is an effort to translate that listening in a way that honors their sacrifice without claiming it as my own.

Why was it important to you to spotlight such a wide range of professions, from farmers and teachers to plumbers, firefighters, and rideshare drivers?

I chose to spotlight a wide range of professions because I believe all work provides a valuable service, and if that work is done honorably and with all your heart, it should be recognized. We’re created with different gifts and unique abilities, and the work we perform should demonstrate those gifts and abilities to the fullest.

You use direct forms such as limericks and acrostics throughout the book. What draws you to these styles of poetry?

I chose to focus on limericks and acrostics because they are creative ways to express humor and wit about friends and subjects that matter to me. Limericks and acrostics have been very enjoyable in my teaching, and I have found that younger children are willing to take more risks in writing using these two-poetry genre.

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