Welcome to our second issue of PATCHWORK! I am proud of all the work that went into this issue, which reflects a new editorial process for us. Submissions for Issue Two were juried, and the writers engaged in a thoughtful editing exchange with one or more members of our editorial team. It was an invaluable experience for both editors and writers - I hope you enjoy reading the results of their collaboration. We have also added a small gallery of photographs and visual art works which are in keeping with this issue's theme.

I especially want to thank PATCHWORK'S editorial team for putting a great deal of time, energy and love into the editorial process:

Diana Gordon, poetry
Steve O'Halloran, poetry
Max Rivers, prose
Dori Ostermiller, prose

The theme of this issue is Water. You will find it trickling, rushing, roaring and lapping throughout. Dive deeply into one piece at a time or allow the current of the writings to carry you along. Each piece is a unique, fluid expression. Enjoy!

- Jillian Hanson, Managing Editor

Dedication

Simone Weil once said, "I would like to achieve the kind of radiance that can bring about nonviolently what other people might have to do violently." [Quoted in The Sun Magazine, September 2001]

Out of loving respect for the souls of all who died violently on September 11, 2001, compassion for those who lost family members, friends and co-workers, and prayers for all who are caught in the cycle of violence, we dedicate the work of Patchwork Farm Retreats, and in particular this issue of PATCHWORK, to fostering harmony within ourselves for the creation of a just and peaceful world.

With love and all blessings,
- Patricia Lee Lewis

 
Editor: Jillian Hanson
Designer: Brit Albritton