Since a bit, I consider December 29^th as the last day of the year, a day when I talk to the past months and start opening the doors to the upcoming year. At the end of 2022, I’ve remained silent here not because I had nothing to say, nor had I accomplished anything to be proud of.

Last year, I’ve won two poetry contests, one national and the other international. But I’ve had to relinquish the national title since it was question of only one collection of poetry for both of the contests. Later, I’ve received a special mention in another competition in France. My association has had the opportunity to hold talks on the importance of reading, writing and reading workshops, a book collection for a library project, and a school supplies collection for children in Grand’Anse.

This year was not easier, but it brought its own joy and beauty. “À partir du chaos,” my second poetry collection, earned the Prix Littéraire Jean Métellus in France, where I signed at the Marché de la poésie. One of my poems received the ALUT Prize in Italy. I had a wonderful experience in Martinique, where I was in a poetic residency and invited to the second edition of the Festival Mai.Poésie. Over there, I also signed my first poetry collection, “Brûler les ténèbres.”

 

For Renastere, 2023 not the best year, but we are proud of our achievements. We had young authors’ presentations, some publications for better writing, a new section called “Conversation littéraire,” and a great collection of supplies where we served children in two different communities. Thanks to sponsors, Bourse Renastere (our scholarship program) relieved the parents of 15 children in remote areas.

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who thought of me on December 29th. Thank you for the pieces of sunshine you offered me. It was a truly special birthday, and I owe it to Pierre Jean as well for making me move so much at Soak and Vibes.

In 2023, I had enriching experiences and met wonderful human beings. Not all years look the same or bear the same name, but it’s important to remember that they are always just days to welcome and fill. “And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years”, said Mr. Lincoln.

One of my greatest desires is to continue being useful, as much as I can. And also one of my resolutions in 2023 was to write and publish 5 texts in English on my blog. Soooo, this is the one that closes the cycle. Hopefully, right on time! 😉

Witensky Lauvince