Dorothy Leavitt / Hoiland

I loved the opportunity we had to meet Martine Leavitt. Hearing her personal connection to the topics that she addresses in her books make it seem crucial for writers to use their voices and address topics that are relevant to them. While her subject matter was heavy and at times overwhelming to recognize the realities of how others live, it also helps one as a reader to develop a greater sense of empathy. I appreciated her honesty in sharing how difficult it was for her to write in free verse. While conveying an entire story with characters and depth in this way is difficult, it addresses an unpleasant topic in a more simplistic light. I think that this would be an interesting project to attempt to encapsulate a story or feeling through free verse. I also liked how she did not focus on didacticism , but rather let the reader interpret it in their own individual way. I think this is a useful element to incorporate in any type of religious writing. 

I liked the two sections on first impressions and second impressions about Hoiland's relationship to those that she did not necessarily care for. This perspective of delving deeper into one's life when immediate appreciation or connection is made, is something that Christ repeated in His life. Instead of walking past those that others frowned down upon, He stopped and loved them. Her positive memories of the people that she is was unsure of at first, put into perspective the critical message that everyone is a child of God and has the light of Christ. This passage also resonated with me because I saw so much of my own mother in it. Her ability to focus on someone's positive attributes has influenced me as I also try to look for the best in others. Again, Hoiland takes smaller details that have resonated with her to explore her relationship with others.