about the author

J.S. Radicic

J.S. Radicic is a poet and scholar currently working towards a doctoral degree in the philosophy of religion and theology at Claremont School of Theology. Born and raised “down the hollow” in rural southwest Pennsylvania, her poems consist of themes related to generational poverty, social injustices, and religious deconstruction. When J.S. Radicic is not writing, she is rekindling her sense of wonder and living into her adventurous spirit with her husband and two kids.

Inspirations

Two of the most influential poets of my work are my grandma and Auntie M. Their poetry continues to guide me to create something beautiful out of the darker moments of life.

Maxine Louise Dean

I can’t give you diamonds/ or things of wealth untold/ But I can give you poems/ that come from the soul 

For things that are important/ like love and peace of mind/ Never do go out of style/ Or vanish with the time 

So, cherish all good memories/as many paths you trod/Make sure that you remember/ you’re truly loved by God 

For when I give you poems/ I’m giving of my wealth/ The most important gift of life/ is giving of yourself 

By Maxine Louise Dean (1998)

M.J. Petrucci

“The road was dark and lonely, with swirling thoughts drifting in and out of the dreariness of dampened dreams. Searching for bits and pieces of protection, only provided temporary relief from the cold, chilling rain. The thunder crashed with echoes of the past, while lightning streaked various patterns through the sky. I stood barefoot, wading in and out of reflections found in puddles of yesterday. In a downpour of isolation, I was forced to search the reasons I had arrived at this particular destination. Did I dare come to terms with the murkiness of the water that clouded the way forward? What would lead me out of the fog that had overcast the truth around me? It was here that I accepted the guiding hand of what would save me. The philosophy of life experience would finally meet the wisdom of the angels, to discover a true Spirit Embrace!”

By M.J. Petrucci in Spirit Embrace (2007)