By Avonlea Cummings
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Long-time Walpole resident Marcie Schwartz has been an active participant in the local community for years, recently focusing on educating youth about the art of poetry and the intricate layers that poets can weave into their compositions. In addition to her work with children, Schwartz holds certification in Poetic Medicine, a practice that helps individuals discover their voices by employing poems and poetry to foster connections around specific topics and emotions. This method is particularly effective for individuals who have encountered trauma, anxiety, or stressors. On Tuesday, August 15th, Schwartz unveiled her own children's book, “When Someone Deeply Listens to You,” featuring illustrations by Eric Funk.
Schwartz's journey into Poetic Medicine began during her retirement while teaching Mommy and Me classes in Westwood under her business, Marcie and Me. Since obtaining her certification, Schwartz has been diligently educating local youth about the significance of poetry and the power of lending an ear to one's emotions, ensuring that each individual's voice is acknowledged.
"For me, Poetic Medicine is about granting people a platform to express themselves, affirming that they are indeed heard. Transferring your emotions from within onto the page is incredibly therapeutic. While everyone tends to internalize their feelings, there's a theory that suppressing emotions might contribute to health issues and underlying conditions. In the realm of poetic medicine, there is no judgment placed on whether a poem is 'good' or 'bad'; the authenticity of the poetry itself is paramount. If it originates from your heart, that is what holds importance," Schwartz explained.
“When Someone Deeply Listens to You” represents Schwartz's second publication and Funk's inaugural illustrated project. The book embodies unity within communities, embracing diversity in terms of ethnicity, hair color, religious affiliations, and more. Schwartz was resolute in ensuring that every child reading her book felt both included and validated.
"Eric and I deliberated for over two and a half hours, carefully selecting skin tones, hair colors, ethnic backgrounds, and more. A librarian shared with me that this book allows every child to see themselves within its pages, a sentiment that truly warmed my heart," Schwartz reflected.
The book's creation spanned approximately a year and a half, delving into eighteen distinct emotions that children commonly encounter in their daily lives. Although it originated as a poem, after discussions with librarians, Schwartz recognized its potential as an invaluable resource for schools, households, and libraries.
With vibrant and captivating pages, the poem engulfs readers, guiding them through a journey of emotional experiences while underscoring the significance of vocalizing one's feelings and the inherent value of being heard. This poignant message is one that Schwartz ardently aims to disseminate within the local community.
For more information, visit Schwartz's page at https://www.marcieschwartz.com/shop/p/when-someone-deeply-listens-to-you-1.
