Vocal + Assist Picks

The fireworks of last night have subsided and thoughts of the future are at the forefront to my mind. It seems reassuringly apt to be writing this, the first, ‘Vocal + Assist’ picks of the year on the first day of the year. Here, on the 8th floor of generic apartment building looking out onto a grey January day; comforted by the warm bodies of three cats and a fleece blanket for extra measure. Starting as I mean to go on. Content in the banal.

Maybe I should have bigger aspirations, wish for joy but such feelings are fleeting. Contentment this year is the goal. The quiet kind of peace that can only be obtained from mindfulness and a certain gentle acceptance. I wish I had something profound to offer you in my New Year ramblings. I do not. But I do have some fantastic voices to share. So, before I babble on any more, here they are. In usual random order:

Rene Peters

Positives of Epilepsy

An inspiring article that offers us a more positive perspective on living with epilepsy. Rene shares her journey of discovery. Her words, humourous and honest, are an affirmative reminder that (with a little digging) even in the face of difficult health challenges, positives can be found. A must read for those seeking to understand epilepsy a little better, but more for anyone seeking inspiration to push forward, no matter the obstacles.

Raymond G. Taylor

Invisible demons

This villanelle is a profound and emotionally charged exploration of inner turmoil and the search for redemption. With vivid imagery and stark, impactful language the poem explores the demons held within. Though dark on many levels, it navigates the internal battles most, if not all can relate to in one way or another, it offers hope in grace and resilience. A must read for anyone just trying to make their way through.

Lana V Lynx

Our Trip to Rome

Capturing the essence of a memorable Christmas trip to Rome, this engaging travelogue combines the joys of travel with the hurdles of navigating tourist practices in a foreign country. There is the ‘to be expected’ elements of course: marvelling at stunning architecture and the discovery of rich history. But what makes this piece so compelling is the unexpected, but hearwarming kindness of a stranger (I will say no more) and a wonderful display of a mother’s determination to ensure her son receives a gift that will last a lifetime. A perfect read for those who cherish the journey as much as the destination.

Kelly Robertson

When Sea Met Sky

This poetic letter, addressed "Dear Sky," is a beautifully crafted metaphor which explores the deep and intimate connection between two entities, manifested through the personification of the sea and the sky. Visually stunning imagery serves to evoke the wonder and infinite depth of their relationship – intimate and deep and only truly known to them. The poem is incredibly clever in that it can be read and endowed with so many interpretations and applied to our own experience as well as the universal natural elements, suggesting the all-encompassing nature of love in its many forms. Simply put. A must read!

Grz Colm

Distractions from Yourself

A fabulous acrostic offering that presents a thought-provoking commentary on modern work culture. Through stark and unrelenting imagery, it challenges us to reflect on our own lives and the way we balance career success with personal integrity. Hope comes in the form of personal development and self-care. An expressive message as we move into another new year. This poem is particularly resonant for those who feel trapped in the cycle of work (Hello!) and societal expectations, urging a reconnection with one’s true self and aspirations.

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Thank you to all of the creators on Discord and Facebook for sharing your talent. And, as ever a huge thank you to the curation team Rick Henry Christopher, River Joy, Oneg Tristan, Darnell Lee, Jim Delaney Howe, Lamar Wiggins and Mother Combes.

You can join in the fun on Facebook here:

A Final Note:

A last thought for the upcoming year, not from me but from a cherished author of mine, who says it much better than I ever could. Maya Angelou,

'I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'

In the year of the dragon, I hope that the wings of kindness, acceptance, and love carry us through and beyond; giving us all the power to survive and thrive in this crazy, nonsensical, beautiful little world of ours.