To Whom It May Concern Poem by Jodilee Duke

If punctuation etc is your own choice on where they go, then don't be surprised if people like me think of you as near illiterate. I have sent comments to you on elementary errors in plain basic English and you persist in writing: 'this is well wrote'. Pardon me for not being impressed. Kristin's comments were well meant, were you home when they arrived? H

Dear Kristin E. Johnson, l do realize that you are giving me advice.., yet this poem is a lot different then the most.., that l do write. And as far as my punctuations go.., l feel and believe it is my own choice on where they go... I realize you mean well.., yet this poem dwells deep into my heart.., and if others choice to read it.., that is their own choice in doing so. l spent alot of time working on my writes.., and i do record and listen to them.., yes, even in my car..., and l read and read them.., but for the most part.., l don't write for myself. l write for the reader. Thank you very kindly for sharing your thoughts with me.., l did and probably will read them many times.. Yet, l cannot change my style of writing over one comment.., of disagreement... With Respect, Jodilee Duke

Ask yourself the question: 'Who is Jodilee? What does she need the universe to hear from the depths of her heart? ' Then write about the answer- the REAL answer to that question. Be open and honest about the depths of your soul, because your readers will be able to see if you are trying to hide behind some words that don't really come from the essence of yourself. Pay attention to the way that the words SOUND as you read them aloud. Read your poems out loud again and again. Record yourself reading your poem and then play it back again several days later while you are driving and be honest about whether your words are worthy of the pangs of your heart and whether your words actually GIVE something to your reader that they can make their own. And please, please brush up on your punctuation. It is very important. Poetry is always unique to its creator and it is good and valuable tohave your own 'style' but do not lose sight of the fact that poetry is always, always a COMMUNICATION. If it doesn't communicate, FIX IT! You have something to say, so please don't waste your time or your readers' time with a bunch of words that have NOTHING to do with the real message in your heart and soul. Do not be afraid to expose your soul. Do not be afraid to be honest about who you are. You will find that you have a lot in common with the souls that surround you and that they will benefit from being able to relate to you once you open yourself in honesty. Keep on peeling off the layers of that 'onion' and speak earnestly about your journey. And read, edit, revise, punctuate!