by Linda Newman Woito Iowa City, Iowa Branch   It has been a bitter winter. Russian guards are still outside. Who will watch the horses dancing? Priests lead them all ... Read more

  “Rainbow Teapot” by Melissa Woodburn Golden Gate/Marin Branch NLAPW Ceramic with underglazes and glazes

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Rev. Nancy Schluntz Diablo-Alameda Branch   Sunday, Monday, Thursday It doesn’t matter It won’t turn off.   Part of living and loving Is getting used to things That won’t turn ... Read more

Patricia Dennis, Santa Clara Branch   We were young girls holding hands playing hop scotch whispering secrets sneaking into forbidden rooms trying on the jewels of our mothers and dressing ... Read more

Marsha J. Perlman SW Florida Branch   I’ve been to court countless times. Not because I broke the law. Not because I was arrested or presented with a warrant. I, an instructor of English as a Second Language. They, my classes of Central American female and male students. Yes, crossed the border illegally at night while entire villages lived marginally to support one of their own to start a new life. At first they couldn’t read the rules they were expected to observe. Acquired English by day, but not fast enough to understand that in this country one doesn’t offer a bribe to a police officer when pulled over, hand-cuffed or incarcerated. Jail cell was home until court date. Result: Lost wages, hungry families. Lost English lessons, no jobs. Lost cars, no transportation. Lost apartments…homeless. What _is _our definition of_ JUSTICE?_ Imagine an unbroken world designed for compassion with: Harmony rather than conflict. Unity instead of threats. Defense in place of blame. Acceptance without prejudice. Laughter replacing tension. Let us wage peace and rediscover _JOY._   www.marshajperlman.com ... Read more

Risa Roberts Fort Lauderdale Branch   She stripped down to her underwear Then Slowly stripped down To her bones Not enough She reached deep into her being Found the child And Crossed ... Read more