In this session Phyllis Cole-Dai will share readings from her beautiful anthology Poetry of Presence, to illustrate how certain kinds of poetry can inform and inspire how we show up in the world, opening us up to new possibilities of being and doing. The readings will be interspersed with personal stories and reflections from this year of the pandemic, as well as with a writing prompt or two, and time for shares and reflections from participants.

About Phyllis
Phyllis Cole-Dai's work explores deep divides within ourselves and our communities to promote understanding and respect. She uses storytelling, poetry, music, and the spoken word to nurture radical attention and belonging. She has authored or edited 11 books in multiple genres. Recent titles include Staying Power: Writings from a Pandemic Year, Poetry of Presence: An Anthology of Mindfulness Poems (with Ruby Wilson) and For the Sake of One We Love and Are Losing: A Meditative Poem & Journal. Originally from Ohio, she now resides with her scientist-husband, college-bound son, and two cats in a 130-year-old house in Brookings, South Dakota.