Carol A. Hand
I have to admit that I was worried about being discovered as a “fraud” for enrolling in a novel-writing project. I didn’t really want to write a novel because I feel a need to acknowledge and honor the stories of others. I want to be true to their accounts, share critical reflections, and offer possible solutions while protecting identities. I’m so grateful for taking time today to explore options. I wrote this poem in gratitude to celebrate what I discovered.
I’ve discovered where I belong
And it shouldn’t be surprising
I’m on the margins with rebels
An old but new story arising
I feel the fear and excitement
As I face this new daunting task
Can I weave stories together
So readers will finally ask
What can we do in the future
To undo egregious harm done
So we can care for all children
Because we know we are all one
Let the words that flow though me
And onto a page speak true
Without blame, inspiring hope
It’s what I’m inspired to do
For the sake of our children
Whose lives end if we fail to care
About bombs, bullets, and drones
About hunger, cold, and poison air
The collateral damage is
Borne by my own heart and soul
Silence when witnessing pain
Carries such a heavy toll
Photo: My Mother Age 7
Photo: Me Age 7 (?)
When I write, I need an image or title to serve as a computer-sort button to keep me on track. Here’s my draft working title: We Remember: Ojibwe Stories about Surviving the Child Welfare (Ill-fare) Years. It may change as I write, but it’s a start…
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When you know that’s the story to tell, you have to tell. Funnily enough, mine is centred around children too and for the same reasons you describe. We’re called to write the changes maybe? To provoke something? Whatever the outcomes and the reasons, very best of luck.
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Thank you for your thoughtful comments, Scottish Momus 🙂
Best of luck to you, too. I look forward to hearing more about your work!
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Likewise. 🙂 x
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Looking forward to your story. I know it will be honest and from the heart and will help people not familiar with native american history to understand.
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I’m grateful for your kind words, Bernadette. Thank you so much ❤
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Dear Carol, Your writing is so wonderful and uplifting; I wish I could keep up with all your efforts.
Buster and his (really)old pappy.
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Buster, thank you and your pappy so much for your lovely comments. I’m deeply grateful to you ❤
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You are the last person in the world I would call a “fraud”!
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And you don’t even really have to think of it as a novel. You are telling a true story but participating in NaNoWrimo you will work toward a draft and maybe get some ideas about structure, pacing, using novelistic technique in giving new life to the stories you were told. Write on.
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Thank you so much for your encouragement, Diane. I really did find a forum called “rebels” – for those who are not writing novels. I’m excited (and terrified) and hoping the pressure and structure will help me keep writing even on days when it’s hard…
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I like working with a title as it gives form to my story and can be woven into the plot.
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I’m glad to know that, Rosaliene. I often thinks it’s a rather strange approach, but it really does remind me what my purpose is. I’m not sure that my working title quite conveys what I’m hoping to accomplish, but I think it’s a good place to start.
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I’m happy you are writing a story/novel, a new adventure in some way, but you are already an accomplished writer! I am sure you will enjoy this journey.
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Thank you for your always kind and lovely comments, Tiny 🙂
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You are fearless, a wonderful quality. I know your novels will have heart.
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Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging comments, Jim 🙂
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If you are a fraud Carola, then so are we all masqueraders. When a story needs to be told, the worst injustice would be to silence the voice. Speak for you shall surely be heard. More Grace to you as you write.
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Thank you for your kind, poetic words and blessings, Jacqueline. I’m deeply grateful 🙂
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It’s my pleasure 😊
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Fraud Carol? Nahhhhh. You are the best! Wonderful poem by the way. Thanks for sharing!!!
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Thank you, Hector 🙂
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Thank YOU Carol!!
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You are one heck of a poet, my friend. That should also be a project ❤
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Thank you for your kind words, Trace. It means a lot coming from you 🙂
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I literally wait for your posts! When i wake up in the morning and check my phone, “Carol must have posted something” is one of the things that run in my mind! Love your thoughts!
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Dear Mansi, I’m deeply grateful for your kind and lovely words. Thank you ❤
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Of course you will write a wonderful story, it doesn’t have to be a novel, it may become several! With all your experiences, I am sure it will be a true reflection of it’s author!
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It’s lovely to hear from you, Bev. Thank you for your kind and thoughtful comments. I send my best wishes 🙂
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