One of my first events before I was actually published was Poetica. The space, the people, the talent, and the art all sent me into this catastrophic forward momentum to find my footing as a confident and inspirational poet. I always KNEW I was one, internally. However embodying that energy around people I found myself shy, scared, and even insecure. I was plagued with the thoughts "do I have what it takes?", "Am I really someone, someone else would listen to?", and the forsaken "can I string words together that bring this sucker punch feel to a crowd?". I was scared, nervous, and a little unsure of myself. 

BUT then I walked into Poetica. The vibe, chill & supportive but above those CREATIVE. I met some amazing artists. Artists and poets that I find myself skimming their socials hoping they are creating and achieving every success they chase after. I find myself full immersed in this group that collectively have become "MY village". Often times I get DM's and little messages of encouragement, enlightenment, and support. Always seemingly at the right time when I'm battling my ego thinking I should wrap all this up sometime soon. 

Poetica has become a resting place for my soul. She, my soul, cracks her neck, stretches wide, and smiles each and every time I THINK of Poetica. She is like a little kid on Christmas counting down the days until Santa comes. Poetica, is my Christmas Ev. 

So, I will be there, fully zen and fully immersed with my people, letting my soul find her resting space among some really incredible talent and above all, fully at peace and tranquility in the top tier vibes. 

Poetica is ran by Dev, you can find him on Instagram at @devpoetic and I highly encourage buying his book. If you want to read some poetry that can make you smell the flowers as if you are smack dab in the middle of the field, then he is your guy.

All my love, 

Shay