You have probably gone through it.   The experience of watching someone evolve and blossom; to become an enhanced version of a former self; to witness to that person’s ability to be   inspirational, motivational, and bring insight and wisdom to others.   My experiences with Rachael Z. Ikins has been that and more. And I expect as she continues her life’s path, she will further evolve, and the wait is exciting to just see what the next Ikins iteration will be and how she will continue to flourish in that embodiment. Here are two poems and a bonus poem from Rachael for this week's "Avenues on Wednesday" program. Enjoy Ms. Ikins.   *** Underground What kind of woman lifts a hoe to slash mulched ground, to unearth daffodil bulbs buried deep? What kind of woman slashes until she uproots them, then takes the blade to their voiceless white sides, their fat bellies' crumbly brown skin? Hoe as murder inst...

Jim Ellis (photo provided) Every community has unsung and all too often unrecognized individuals who move forward a positive and challenging literary agenda that inspires and enhances creativity.   A supporter of all activities that promote poetry, Jim is a primary and significant founder, as well as bulwark of a monthly poetry circle in Auburn, NY. Jim i s a renaissance gentleman and witty intellectual, raconteur, and overall great guy.   When he reads his work, Mr. Ellis always acknowledges poets whose work should be part of an listener's canon of accessible poetry.   Today is no different.   So, we convene this week’s “Avenues” with a selected poem by Jim followed by two of his works. Enjoy. Sharing a brilliant poem by Alicia Ostriker and a couple by me.   J *** THIRSTING Alicia Ostriker It’s not that the old are wise But that we thirst for the wisdom we had at twenty when we understood everything wh...