(Continuity/Smooth Transition) Thank you, Iris, for that boisterous introduction. I’d like to agree I am protective, strong, and creative as those are all virtues I have learned through my experiences in the poetry community. I discovered poetry at a quite vulnerable age where self-expression and standing out were still very new frontiers for me. Poetry opened up my mind and heart to new and different perceptions of the world yet somehow made me feel right at home. Being able to express my own narrative gave me a voice that extended itself to others and their narratives. I learned that everyone’s voice is powerful and needs to be protected as Derek Bok puts it, “I suspect that no community can become humane and be caring by restricting what its members have to say.” For those who have had their voices stolen from them, I strive to protect their words, stories, and experiences. It does take a great`amount of strength to even attempt to do so, however. Sometimes I find myself at a loss for words but know I need to just keep brainstorming and push through. This experience actually helps me become more creative as a person because anything can spark inspiration as long as I am consciously seeking it. I take pride in the fact that I am protective, strong, and creative and am honored that Iris, my free-spirited cat, took the time to get to know me. Agreeing with the great mind and writer, Charles Dickens, “What's greater than the love of a cat?" I appreciate her loving me and taking notice of my attributes I have acquired through my years as a poet and cat-mom.