Dear writers,
What times we are living in.
The coronavirus pandemic has the world in upheaval. We are distancing ourselves from others, isolating with our families, and working and learning from home. Our days probably look and feel radically different than they did even a few days or weeks ago, which might produce a great deal of anxiety, fear, and frustration.
But we will be ok.
The Center for Creative Writing has been helping people express themselves, find solace in words, connect with others, and record and process their truths for 30 years. We believe in the sanctity of that self-expression, in its transformative coping and healing powers. And we, the six writers teaching for this school, know that we are not the only ones who turn to writing when nothing else makes sense. It’s part of our humanity, the long and grand tradition of making art in times of desperation.
Perhaps writing is not on your mind right now, and that’s understandable. But if you are one of those people who feels pulled to the page as a means of coping with what’s going on around you, we are here for you. The Center will not be shutting down. Our virtual doors are open. Our inspired, supportive online courses and generative writing sessions will start anew on April 14, and we welcome anyone who wants to write through these times with us. If cost is a concern, please email us to ask about payment plan options for registration. We are flexible and empathetic in our policies for withdraws, deferrals, and course credits, should they be necessary. And we are working on some no-cost ways you can write with us, too.
Everything has changed seemingly overnight, yet our mission is the same as it has always been: to provide a supportive community for anyone who wants to channel creative energy to build a sustainable and rewarding writing practice. Now more than ever, we believe such community, such coming-together, is vital. If you are in need of our services and guidance over the coming weeks and months, we are here. Together, we will be ok.
Be kind to yourselves and others, and take good care,
Stacia M. Fleegal, Shawna Ayoub Ainslie, Teneice Durrant, Helena Clare Pittman, Jennifer Steil, and Tawni Waters
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