To say Mary F. Lenox has a way with words is an understatement. A retired university dean, the San Diego, California-based poet draws inspiration from her natural surroundings and regular walks. Several years ago, her observations about the physical world, intertwined with her own evolution as a person, led to a "spiritual practice" of writing a daily poem – a ritual she continues today. Some of those poems can be found in two books she's authored: Threads of Grace: Selected Poems (2015) and Riches of Life: Poems (2019). In this interview, Mary discusses how different environments have shaped her writing, how she goes about creating a poem, what she hopes readers get out of her poetry, as well as why this form of prose is important. Furthermore, she share a couple of her recent works composed this year, including one after the killing of George Floyd in May 2020.For anyone who wants to learn more about the art form, Mary suggests listening to The Slowdown podcast hosted by Tracy K. Smith, which introduces listeners to five minutes of poetry each episode.Mary's Recommendations:- We Are the Ones We Have Been Waiting For by Alice Walker- Beauty: The Invisible Embrace by John O'Donohue- The House of Belonging by David Whyte- A Summer's Day by Mary Oliver- On Being podcast by Krista Tippett Shuva's Recommendation:- Top 25 Things to do in San Diego, CaliforniaIf you enjoy this show, click here and follow the instructions to leave a review.Interested in starting your own podcast? Sign up here for your own Buzzsprout account.