At this time when the world is heightened and emotions are flying, I'm finding it more important to set boundaries. I do not try to hide that I am an introvert (by no means am I shy or dislike others), which means that I have to be sensitive to my needs in order to do the work I feel called to do -- this often shows itself in me limiting particular types of actions.

I believe we are each called to be a part of the solution. We each have a role to play. I've been called poet, poet-healer, facilitator, magical, a blessing, catalyst.  I'm honored by those titles but essentially this is what I will say yes to and what I will say no to:

YES

1. I will sit with you during difficult times. I know how it feels to think you're alone and misunderstood, particularly when you are grieving. It's one of the reasons why I started The Word Project nearly 20 years ago. 
2. I will gently challenge you -- as a coach, particularly -- by asking questions that provide clarity. I don't challenge you for my sake, but as a provoker or mirror, should you desire that as you move forward to reaching your goal, dreams, or desires. 
3. I will write a poem for you or your event, if it feels right to me, but not for free. 
4. I will give poetry readings (for free) :-).
5. I will be honest if I feel that I (The Word Project, Snapdragon Journal, Deeper Dive Consulting) cannot do what you need or desire, and will try to work with you to find someone who can. 
6. I will edit your poetry and coach your writing, if that's what you want. 
7. I will continue to lead poetry writing workshops 
   (online now and hopefully in person once we're pass COVID-19).
8. I will continue to lead professional development trainings and coaching sessions through Deeper Dive Consulting. 
9. I will send you love and positive energy. We are all on this journey, hopefully to make it better not just for ourselves but for others. 

NO

1. I will not sit down to talk about race with white people. Seems odd perhaps but sitting and listening to while people tell me about their not knowing, their "I only wish," their confessions is all triggering to me. There are many who will have those conversations with you and give you the space to process your feelings and thoughts about race and racism. I am not one of those people. I am thankful for allays and those called to champion equal rights. I take few trainings where I am asked to talk about diversity and biases. There's the most I will do, at least at this point, as it relates to having discussion with those who haven't lived my experience as a black person. 
2. I will not engage with you around difference of political or religious beliefs on social media. These conversations happen for me in person with those I trust, even if we are from different opinions. 
3. I will not spend my energy justifying myself or teaching you via social media. i will simply block you. 
4. I will not work for free. Yes, I will volunteer to a degree and I offer many of my services for free (poetry readings, pro bono work, facilitation) but if you value me and the experience and soul I bring then do not ask or expect me to work or do anything longterm for free. I am blessed to be farther along in my career to be able to discern if it will "look good on the resume," and if it's just a devaluing of my gifts. Save us both the trouble -- if you cannot bring anything to the table, please don't expect me to. 

Some of this may change just as life changes. My desire is to be open to what is best for me. That means having boundaries and saying "no," even if it may be a "good idea." 

I encourage you, as we navigate this new territory, to think about your boundaries. What's serving you? What isn't? And sharing, in whatever way feels appropriate to you.