The 1960s and '70s were, in many ways, a turbulent, frustrating time of unrest. But they led to a formative time for minorities and women. These decades helped define me personally as well.

All along the way I wrote poetry as a release for my personal feelings of unrest. In 1978 I self published a slim book of poetry titled New Day. This was no small task prior to the Internet.

I was leading workshops and presentations for various groups at the time and began taking a few books along with me. I had no idea what to expect but we soon went through three printings. A handful of counselors used them in group therapy for those experiencing similar frustrations.

And now, 50 plus years later, I've been encouraged to republish New Day. I've added a few more poems that represent, for me, those life changing decades.

--Cecily Crossman