She Who Gathers Stones

When one reads almost any poem by Joanne Uppendahl, it is with the strong sense that here are the words of an old and patient soul, returned to share her wisdom through the wondrous gift of language. She offers us sorrows remembered, anguish revealed, atonement sought and-sometimes-granted. Yet, this is far from a bleak collection! The poet affords us a bright awareness that illumines both her work and our responses to it. We cannot come away from even the most poignant pieces without feeling inspired and uplifted. Joanne well knows that in order to sip sweetly from the human chalice, we must also drink a certain darker residue. If we cannot welcome pain, she believes, we can at least agree to taste it. She has drunk from this cup in full measure and holds it out for our acceptance. Her poetry translates this very personal journey into a universal exploration in which we are invited to participate. Its rewards are self-discovery and spiritual renewal for both writer and reader. Its culmination is joy. Brenda Levy Tate Author of Cleansing and Beeline