Footprints

Throughout life's journey people walk into and out of our lives leaving footprints on our hearts. They make a lasting impression, tenderly touch our souls, give life greater meaning, renewing our spirits. They open our eyes to something beautiful we've been blind to before. Some of these people are dear to us and are here to stay, while others may come for a short period to teach us a hard lesson. We need to let them go once the lesson has imparted. Whatever the reason, always embrace those people who leave impressions on your heart for they gently carve you into the person you are. They unintentionally give you a fraction of their wisdom, love, joy, anger, heartache and pain. As the poems, essays and stories in this anthology are a testament to, the author's heart has been shaped and influenced by her interaction with people whose paths she crossed. Sometimes the footprints have been gentle, sometimes deeper. Perhaps it was a passing glance, a fleeting smile, a distant observation or intense connection: "Whatever it may be, my spirit was renewed, and my eyes were opened to some previously unknown beauty and I've attempted to express my emotions and these experiences as accurately and as fully as possible. I can only hope that my fourth anthology will inspire you and leave gentle footprints on your heart."