Autumn is a time of richness and exploration. It can also be a time for moving into the shadows and listening to those parts of us that have been neglected or pushed aside. What in us wants to be given voice? What new ideas or life directions want to be explored? Meister Eckhart said the soul tosses images before itself that it wants us to enter into, and poetry does this too. When we pay attention to these images, they have a way of opening us to a deeper sense of knowing.

Autumn Movements poetry series will continue this Tuesday, Nov. 14th in Middlebury, where we will use a different poem each week (often by Mary Oliver but not always) to explore what images speak to us and why. You will be guided into connection with the words and images that feel most alive for you, and into a deepening exploration of them. You will be invited to write in response, in whatever form. No experience with poetry or writing is needed. Sometimes we will write from art prints along with poetry.

All are invited to come to one or more of these sessions held at Integrative Studios at Marbleworks in Middlebury. They will continue each Tuesday through December 5th, with a fee of $20 (I want everyone to feel they can attend, so let me know if you are in need of a reduced rate).

About the facilitator:
Susan Jefts has been running groups for over ten years in community settings, retreat centers, hospitals, and schools where she uses poetry as a vehicle for exploring life themes. She has a Masters degree in Counseling and Education, and studied ancient and modern uses of poetry in community and therapeutic settings through the Wordsworth Center near Washington D.C. Susan has worked in higher education for over twenty years as a counselor, advisor, and instructor of writing and poetry. She has been published in numerous journals throughout the country and is the writer of the monthly Poet's Corner Column in the Addison Independent. You can learn more about her and her work at www.ManyRiversLifeGuidance.com.