I was born in Fort Churchill, Manitoba...one of the northen-most areas of the prairie provinces of Canada, the youngest of five in a military family. I was a shy and withdrawn young girl and can remember spending a lot of time alone. I did not make friends easily when I was young, I guess because I was so timid and insecure. When I became a teenager, (around 14 or so), I discovered that I had the ability to make things rhyme and to write poems. So began my career as a poet. The discovery of self, the unraveling of emotion...the re-qualifying of negatives around me, these things all seemed to come so naturally to me, like wearing a second skin.

When I write poetry, I do not give it very much "thought." I feel it. Sort of like an airport spotlight, always scanning for new feelings. All of my poetry starts as a feeling...it comes already finished. I very rarely ever change any of the words given to me - as you see it on paper, is how it was received. Beautiful, moving and complete; poured from the cup of creation directly into my heart so that I may share it with you, the reader.

When I was in my mid-thirties, I decided it was time to return to school, so I studied for two years and received my Diploma in Journalism/Story Writing. It was more to prove to myself that I could do whatever it was that I set my mind to. At that time I was considering the possibility of becoming a photojournalist. But, that was not to be - as you can see, poetry is definitely my path. I am guided and fed along my journey...never do I hunger; for I am led safely forward, toward my dream, by the spirit which dwells within this heart.

In my late thirties, my daughter became gravely ill. When she recovered (one year later), I felt that I needed to give back to the community some of what we had been given. Their support through my daughter’s illness was heartwarming and miraculous. When she recovered, I decided to go back to school for my Professional Counsellor’s Certification, I wanted to help children who had come through life-threatening illnesses, I had something to give. But again, that was not to be...I needed this instruction to heal myself.

I am becoming healthier in mind, body and spirit, day by day. I have found within myself, the courage to heal and to become the beautiful and bright star that my Father created me to be. I do so hope that the words you read in my work will help you in some way, no matter how seemingly small or insignificant. These are words of Love...the greatest, most beautiful and at times, bittersweet emotion in the entire universe. May it shine on you, wherever you go...and may it heal your heart even in the smallest and darkest corners where hurt can hide.

I wish all who read my words joy, peace and above all, a wealth of Love...within and without.

God bless you all, and thank you.

Deborah L. Kelly
Poet