Women Combine Words & Art in Poetry Workshop

Poetry and writing workshops offered through the Life Skills, Education and Arts Program (LEAP) are consistently popular classes among women at Calvary. Over the last eight weeks, women have been exploring different themes and subjects, reading poems aloud and tapping into new sources of inspiration. During the class, women also decorated beautiful cards to display their work.

Mary Lou Rife, the volunteer who taught the class, said, “It’s been wonderfully satisfying to see how poetry can speak to everyone and be a catalyst for introspection, sharing memories and feelings, and focusing on identity. Women in the class achieved a real sense of accomplishment and pride, and I have had fun teaching again.”

 

IMG_0680

IMG_0685

 

“Ode to the Woven Bridge” by Deborah

(After a trip to the National Museum of the American Indian)

The woven bridge was a mystery to me.
Many hearts and hands, stretching across a span of time—
How long had it taken to create that woven bridge across running waters?
Held up for all the public to view, to cherish and see.

A bridge to carry you to the other side of the island,
building bonds as they go,
becoming one with their heritage and beliefs.
Strong hands and united hearts,
wild green forest,
sounds of rushing waters, as thunder clapping,
with the span of the bridge carrying them to the other side. 

Hands strong, faces worn, cords binding
The Incans or Mayans forging ahead to get to the other side,
The other side of that woven bridge.

It’s peace on that other side.
The work is done, there for all to view.

 

Recent Posts

Back to Blog
June 30, 2025

Finding Hope at Calvary

Keisha is an intelligent, determined young woman entering her senior year at the University of the District of Columbia, where she studies biology. Keisha is extremely passionate about medicine and dr…
April 28, 2025

Thank You to Everyone who Supported the 2025…

On Wednesday, April 23rd, Calvary Women’s Services raised more than $550,000 with more than 300 people in attendance at the 2025 Hope Gala, held at the Ritz Carlton in Washington, DC. Thank you…
October 2, 2024

How to Support Calvary in October

Calvary Women’s Services has numerous opportunities for you and your loved ones to make an impact in the lives of women experiencing homelessness this October as we honor Domestic Violence Awareness…