Dear IVN Reader,

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For the holidays I give you this beautiful poem by my beautiful friend Dr. Jessie Fields.  A physician, a leader, a conscience and a poet, Dr. Fields is fierce and tender in all she does. You will be touched by her, by this poem.

Happy Holidays. Be safe. Be Independent. Be loved.
Jackie

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“Poetry: Forgive me for having helped you to understand that you are not made of

words alone.” Roque Dalton

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Poetry Can

Poems can so move the soul that tears flow

And lengthen those in sacred bonds

Stretching sentences to outlast time.

Fingers that tremble across the page can trace the stars

And let love turn breathless in your arms.

Poetry between us

Words at our feet.

Can we people making poetry arise and lead the way to a new

Day, end the cycles of misery, end poverty.

But don't stop there, from the dust form a new future.

Poetry in action come forth, come lead the way and don’t stop there.

--Jessie Fields