A Journey of Words (AJOW): Hi Willow. Thanks for taking time from your busy schedule to talk to us.
Willow Reese (WR): Thank you for the opportunity. You know, I love social media, but I don’t know much about Substack.
AJOW: Well, we hope you’ll check out the great content while you’re here!
WR: I sure will. I could read poetry all day!
AJOW: How has life changed for you since The Activist was published?
WR: I’ve had some people ask me to autograph the book. It’s pretty cool to have the story of your life in print. I didn’t expect it to happen. I always thought a book of my poetry was possible, but I never dreamed of this.
AJOW: Let’s talk about your poetry, Willow. Where do your ideas come from, and do you intentionally follow specific forms when writing poems?
WR: I think I’m kind of typical as a poet. Ideas just come to me. It may be while I’m eating breakfast or walking somewhere, or I might not be doing anything at all. Sometimes, I write poems about specific topics to fill a need. Honestly, those take more work. I use whatever form seems to fit the poem. I try hard not to force things with my poetry.
AJOW: You’ve repeatedly been an advocate for the underdog, those who are struggling, and those who may not be treated fairly. Why do you care so much?
WR: I just care. Maybe it’s the way I was raised. The strength of my family means everything. Worrying about my brother all those years probably did something to my heart, too. I just can’t bear to see people treated poorly.
AJOW: You’ve been a great example to so many people.
WR: I’ve made my mistakes, too. I just try to make up for them once I realize what I’ve done.
AJOW: It’s no secret that another book about your life is under production. Can you give us any inside information?
WR: I’m afraid I’m sworn to secrecy. I will tell you that life isn’t always easy; sometimes, we learn the most from our challenges. I’m anxious to continue to share my story with everyone.
AJOW: Would you like to leave everyone with some words of encouragement?
WR: Of course! This world needs each and every one of us in our various shapes, sizes, colors, beliefs, and ages. No one is perfect, but together we come close to perfection by loving, caring, hearing, and respecting each other. Don’t forget to #Tellyourstory!
AJOW: Thank you for joining us, Willow!
WR: Thank you so much for having me!
Have a great week, everyone!
Take care,
Rod
That is an amazing idea to interview one of your characters to help everyone get to know them better. I think that works really well... 😎