vermontpoetess's Letters

Write a thank-you letter or poem to yourself

Self-Appreciation

It’s in here somewhere, shaking, out of sight—
this gratitude I keep alive for me
that’s terrified by recognition’s light.

See!

It cowers, there. Don’t get too close; it bites,
a mangy mix of actuality
surviving off mere scraps of sacrifice,
resilience, sense, and stale tenacity.

My family gets first dibs on hearty foods.

I feed their inner p…read more

Write a letter to your younger self about a challenge you faced as a child but have since overcome

It's Not Your Fault

It’s not your fault, in anger, that she screamed
whenever boredom tempted, “screw the rules”
but break the cycle— count to ten and breathe.

Her parenting just followed grandma’s lead,
a single mom with seven in her brood.
It’s not your fault, in anger, that they screamed.

For years, repressed emotions build up steam
and beg release with adole…read more

Write a poem (or letter) about a turning point in your life

The Ultrasound

Cold, antiseptic air crushes down upon my chest
as barely padded steel pushes back from the other side,
effectively pinning my teenage body to a table
in a darkened room I don’t want to be in.
A heartbeat pounds in my ears— too fast
to be mine, yet instantly mine.
I watch the screen flutter with blurred vision,
regret for what I was there to d…read more

Write a poem a letter about quote or motto that inspires you

Wise Worthy Woman, a Sonnet

“What is better than wisdom? Woman. And what is better than a good woman? Nothing.”
~ Geoffrey Chaucer

When teenage angst and mental boredom read
his poetry in high school British Lit,
my brain went on a bender, seeking highs
that only Tales of Canterbury matched
and line by line, my feminism fanned,
I felt those words expand and…read more

If you could send 1 message you’ve learned to every person in the world, what would it be?

Transience

This life’s a high-thrill roller coaster ride
with climbs and drops, with loops and turns— you blink
and future’s past— it’s transience defined.

Cry.

Or don’t. It matters not, for wheels still clink.

Along the track of destiny we fly,
entrusting cars attached by tungsten links
to comfort whether plunging from the sky
or taking corners, scr…read more

Write a poem about a dream (or goal) that came true

The Astronaut

I’ve had my share of dreams and goals
throughout this skyward climb—
have hustled, slaved, and sold my soul
at least five thousand times—

all rocket fuel injection founts,
plans realized or not;
ascension parted clouds of doubt
for me, the astronaut.

I soared past childhood fantasy,
explored familial moons,
then looped a distant star or thr…read more

Write a letter or poem to your younger self sharing what you love most about him/her

We Survived on Feist

Resiliency is rarely said
to be an envied trait;
they’ll cite your wit or charm instead,
both given greater weight.

But, grit survives through each abuse–
finds quiet ways to thrive–
and never lets the trauma noose
bedim your stubborn eyes.

This understated innate feist
will be your truest friend
so hold her close throughout our lif…read more

Write a letter or poem to or about a loved one who passed away and share how they inspire you

Richie

I think about you now and then,
a smile on my face
and hope you’re running free, my friend,
with classic Richie grace

or dancing on a fresh-cut lawn
to upbeat oldie tunes,
not caring if the world looks on–
to judgment, you’re immune.

I’m sure your whoops of simple joy
are heaven’s favorite tolls–
endearing is the singsong voice
that echoes in…read more

Iron Sword

TW!
This is a poem I wrote about forgiveness, grace, and strength after I was confronted as an adult with my childhood abuser.
Please do not share it because I have it submitted to a few places. Thanks!

The pungent froth of evening tide
caressed my weary toes
as golden sands of Surya’s Pride
chafed restlessly below.

Soft…read more

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