In my studio, I’m immersed in the writer’s circle I discovered during the initial COVID lockdown. This group emerged as a beacon in the solitude, connecting me to a world beyond the confines where my husband, C.C., along with Beaumont the Sheepadoodle, and I huddled for safety against an unseen virus stalking the globe.

Three years on, the lockdowns have faded, but our circle endures. Despite occasional absences, like one poet last night, our bond remains unbroken. This circle is a treasure, a sacred time for writing. Sparked by the poems our circle priestess, Ali Grimshaw, of Flashlight Batteries shares, I welcome its invitation to simply let the words flow, effortlessly, without judgement or caveats or hesitation.

Last night, Ali introduced a poem by Kim Stafford, former Oregon state Poet Laureate. I’ve long admired Stafford’s profound and mystic style, reminiscent of the mystery of the cypress forests and exquisite beauty of his native Pacific Northwest. His words, both lyrical and relatable, woven with natural imagery and rich with personal and communal narratives, offer solace and a reminder of our interconnectedness.

The poem, “Advice from a Raindrop,” struck a chord. In it, Stafford writes:

Think you’re doomed to disappear,
just one small voice among millions?
That’s no weakness, trust me. That’s
your wild card, your trick, your
implement. They won’t see you coming

These lines fueled my free-fall writing, igniting thoughts about being more than just a drop in the ocean.

Every Drop Counts
by Louise Gallagher

Do you think
there are so many drops
in the ocean
swelling
into a wave
pummelling against the shore
that your drop will not be missed?

Think again my friend.

Your drop is felt
in the difference your bring to life
when you stop falling
into the belief
your drop doesn’t count.

No one can count the drops
of water in the ocean,
but every drop counts
to make the tide 

Ebb and flow. Ebb and flow.

My friend.
You are the drop. You
are the wave
of the ocean
swelling
and pummelling
against the shore.

Ebb and flow, Ebb and flow

My friend.
Every drop matters
your drop no more
no less.

May you know today, and everyday, the uniqueness of the difference you make in this world is needed, wanted and very precious. As are you. ❤