FITHIAN PRESS The Journal and the Journey: A Poet Looks at Life We all experience joy, struggle, and growth at various times in our lives, and most of us contemplate the meaning of our experiences and emotions when such changes occur. The search for meaning can take many forms. Poetry can be a valuable tool for exploring life's changes, as poet and teacher Erline Dessie Goodell demonstrates in her new book, Journey Toward Bold-A Woman's Poetic Reflections. After realizing that others-particularly women-may have similar responses to life's experiences, Goodell set out to articulate, document, and organize the passages in her life that have shaped her. So, more than an investigation of self, Journey Toward Bold is a collection of poems that catches glimpses of the vicissitudes of life and gives counsel and comfort in dealing with both the valleys and peaks that are universal to us all. Journey Toward Bold is divided into five sections, each dealing with a different stage in life: Thank You, Sweet Knight looks at childhood and adolescence and the loss of an important family member at a young age; With Wide White Wings explores depression, frustration, doubt and the power and depth of these low points, and makes an honest appraisal of feelings that are often denied. With titles like "Howling Optimism," "The Choice," and "Intensity," though, these poems take an optimistic and upbeat approach to feelings that are often confusing and disturbing. Dew-Glistening Webs captures more positive moments and empowering surges of spirit that are pivotal points in Journey Toward Bold. Here can be found self-help techniques that promote a natural state of enthusiasm and optimism. Fabric of My Life celebrates relationships and love; and A Balancing Act demonstrates lessons learned and articulates a philosophy of life. Sharing lessons from the journey is vital to this poet, and Journey Toward Bold is her gift: an affirmation and reinforcement of the value of the struggle toward bold, autonomous living. About the Author Erline Dessie Goodell is an instructor in the Adult Education division of Santa Barbara City College, teaching Religious Studies and Women's Studies. She is cofounder and past director of MidLife Zest, Inc., and facilitator of workshops in women's spirituality. She lives and writes in Santa Barbara, California. Journey Toward Bold A Woman's Poetic Reflections Erline Dessie Goodell ISBN 1-56474-335-7 72 pages, paperback, $9.95 For ordering information, click here or phone (800) 662-8351 or order this book now!