Great Regulars: How often do we turn on the news (or, yes,

open the newspaper) and see images of life's more challenging side? Natural disasters, war, house fires, gun violence, job loss, senseless vandalism--images of these issues have become so commonplace in our lives.

As humans, sometimes we simply need a little relief. Poetry, I think, can provide that much needed mental break. For writers, putting ideas and thoughts into words can be a great way to process everything from confusion to grief.

from Bill Diskin: Independent Tribune: Poetry Corner: Celebrate poetry, in April and yearround

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