We had the honor of sitting before the ever talented Tracie Morris and Rommi Smith. I was both captivated and sensually enthused by their performances. I cannot do what they can do but I bet if I tried, the outcome would be a sight to see. These women were so inspiring to me. I journal often and write poetry and I looked to them for some inspiration and guidance.

Rommi Smith has the gift to hear the voices of those who’ve composed original works of poetry. Because she is performing those original works, she can speak the poetry in the voice it was created in. How wonderful is that?  When I was young and had to read text book articles and from authors whom I knew where English and other than Urban Black or Brown, sometimes I’d hear the voice in my head of a person who had an English or British accent. Sometimes I would read aloud to myself in order to connect with my reading assignment. I thought it was so enchanting that Rommi and myself had that in common. I hadn’t told her that when I met her, unfortunately.

Tracie Morris has the gift of improvisation and rhythm, something that I can only manage to perform when I dance. After the performances and Q&A’s, I very shyly went over to Tracie to ask for her advice for and on behalf of young journalists and poetesses who may be looking to publish work. I asked, How does one who journals often and wants to publish context that is not cohesive nor chronological go about sharing their work? And, some advice on reciting original work? She literally said to me, “You have to figure out the words or phrases you don’t need. If you have ever tried to write a Haiku poem before, that is best practice to getting the message you want to convey because in Haiku’s every word matters. You also have to look at your work and decide whether it is publishable or not! This was a great question, you should continue to work at and reflect on your pieces. Good luck!” And then, she extended to me two books that I should read. She wrote them down for me on a piece of paper. The Haiku Book, by William Higginson and Penn Harter and The Essential Etheridge Knight .  I was so moved by her advice, I hugged and kissed her goodbye.