Poetry sheds light on struggle
The research has consistently shown that support groups have a positive impact on physical and mental healing for many people. Support group leaders whom Kim has interviewed have found that carefully chosen poems, which are accessible and brief enough to be discussed in a single session, can often shed light on some aspect of the group’s struggle that may ordinarily be difficult to articulate.
Using poetry for support and grief
Those who facilitate support groups and minister to the grieving may appreciate learning how to prepare for and use poetry during their visits and meetings.
During a workshop or webinar, Kim can recommend and review specific poems to carry with them, as well as proven methods for using the poems one-on-one and with families.
In addition, Kim offers many poetry circle topics that can be structured as webinars, evening sessions, mini-retreats, or full-day/weekend retreats. Peruse the themes.
“Every poem holds the unspeakable inside it. The unsayable… The thing that you can’t really say because it’s too complicated. It’s too complex for us. Every poem has that silence deep in the center of it.” -Marie Howe