This class offers those living with Multiple Sclerosis a creative outlet to express themselves through writing from prompts. You do not need any writing experience to participate.
"A writer is someone who writes." ~ Poet William Stafford
At each session, the instructor begins by offering a tip on the craft of writing, then presents a prompt. Participants then have eight minutes to write in whatever genre they are drawn to poetry, fiction, memoir, lyrics or free flow. After the eight minutes, each writer has the option to share their writing by reading it aloud.
Individuals do not critique the work of others; they do respond to what they found most compelling.
Specific guidelines and confidentiality make this a safe and welcoming place.
Writing opens channels of memory and insight often not remembered or previously explored. Participants often surprise themselves as they write themselves into their own greater sense of knowing.
Class Participant Testimonials
"Appreciated being able to share the stage of my disease with confidence that I would be understood by all in this MS class."
"Learned that everyone has a different style/flow of writing."
"Didn’t really like reading out loud in the beginning, but I know it is necessary for the process!"
"I never felt pressured to read and when I was ready, I didn’t feel judged. Everyone was understanding and positive. Very safe environment."
"Felt a sense of camaraderie in the group. On some of the topics I felt like writing about MS situations, but I like how I didn’t have to, and got us not thinking about it too."
"Loved listening to others read because it showed different writing styles and we got to know the other participants."
"Learned how a simple prompt can trigger a world of potential. It made me become a better experiential person while out in everyday life. As I experienced things I would think, how would I write about this, describe this."
