I read this passage in The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown (2nd ed., 2020), and I want to share it with you, my students, as a way of thinking and being in this class:

"May we find the courage to let go of who we think we're supposed to be so that we can fully embrace
our authentic selves--the imperfect, the creative, the vulnerable, the powerful, the broken, and the beautiful.

May we show ourselves and others the compassion that comes from knowing that we are all made of
strength and struggle.

May we create a just and equitable world where privilege isn't a prerequisite for self-expression and authenticity,
where everyone feels invited and safe to express their power and their vulnerability.

And last, may we experience the strength of connection, the love of belonging, and the grace of pure joy."

I am glad that you are in my class, and I look forward to sharing this writing journey with you.

Last updated August 2025.