In Our Own Words
Every semester, we invite participants to reflect on their writing journey and the experience of being in the circle. They speak to the courage of finding one’s voice, the power of community, and the ways that writing can help us grow, heal, and connect. We hope you’ll hear something of your own story in theirs.
”I started out not knowing if I was a writer…”
“I compared myself to others—that’s long gone. What I know to be true is that I am one, and it pleases me and doesn’t need to please anyone else. This is such a passion—to write—that I have to. Being heard is an added luxury—but the very act of writing is like breathing to me. I consider WWf(a)C my exhale.”—Fall 2024, Tuesday Morning Circle
“This class has given me a time and space weekly to write… I feel a little bit more like the whole me—who has found a long lost friend… The camaraderie also has been empowering.”—Fall 2024, Tuesday Morning Circle
“I was expecting something else, but what I have found instead is deep friendships and connections and new ways to process my life… I have re-awakened my writer self.”—Spring 2025, Wednesday Evening Circle
”I am new to writing…”
“I am new to writing… I’m gaining confidence as a writer… knowing there are guidelines for confidentiality… it’s a safe space to grow.”—Fall 2024, Tuesday Morning Circle
“I feel safe enough to take the risk of vulnerability… in a carefully crafted container for my words and myself.”
“The WWf(a)C rules, roles and processes provide a structured and consistent environment… When I don’t have to worry about ‘What are we doing today?’ I am able to fully relax into the circle and let my writing flow.”
“The rituals… create an egalitarian and pressure-free space… It’s a container to bring forward what is already inside but might get trapped or silenced without the inspiration, prompts and permission of the group to set it free.”
“This class gives me life and hope and most of all a sisterhood”
“Something you may not have considered is the unexpected, underrated and invaluable sense of community and encouragement the women you meet here so generously offer. The energy of women is motivating and a gift you so richly deserve.”
“This class gives me life and hope and most of all a sisterhood and camaraderie that I have needed.”
“On a weekly basis, I hear the depth of personal stories… that nurtures that need of mine that craves authentic women in community… I walk into the circle each week feeling this blanket of calm amidst turbulent times.”
”I have written my way back home to me.”
“My writing has evolved because I have grown… I have written my way back home to me.”
“The prompts, encouragement, and feedback have helped me hurdle writer’s block I’ve had for a year… I think I’m able to see how my writing can move forward and, by relation, how I can as well.”
“I thought I came for the writing… and it’s become an integral part of how I live life: observational, reflective… taking time to savor and self-care.”
“It’s safe here”
“Writing grounds me… Writing about how I’m feeling helps me cope… Hearing the words of the other women encourages me… It’s safe here.”
“I am served so beautifully by being in community with women… Others’ lived experiences startle and inspire.”
“Giving yourself the gift of time, space, and nurturing… allows you to know yourself in ways you might not have otherwise.”