Few pursuits contribute more to self-discovery and growth than exploring the freedoms of our imagination or the meaning within our memories. Few things serve the world better than writing and sharing our stories, given the profound ability of prose and poetry to move the spirit, allow readers to escape to new worlds, validate their own experiences, engender their capacity for empathy and understanding, and forge connections across humanity. And yet… In a world swirling with strife, it can be all too easy to give way to self-doubt—the worst enemy to creativity.

As part of this interactive talk, acclaimed author and writing instructor Joni B. Cole offers a convincing reminder of why our stories matter, and how you can tap into the possibilities of your own creativity. You’ll also be invited to experience for yourself the rewards of writing for yourself and as part of a community. We will be doing a brief writing exercise, so please bring something to write on/with, and leave all self-doubts at the door.

Joni B. Cole is the author of seven books, including the essay collection Party Like It’s 2044: Finding the Funny in Life and Death, and the writing guide: Good Naked: How to Write More, Write Better, and Be Happier (listed as a “Best Book for Writers” by Poets & Writers magazine). Joni teaches creative writing at a variety of academic programs and community organizations. She lives in Vermont and is currently working on her third collection of personal essays. Info: www.jonibcole.com