Poetry for Life

This book, complete with colorful, captivating, high definition images, reflects the author's unique, creative ability to express social issues in poetic form. Themes include conflict in school, addiction, mental health, choices, consequences, resiliency and the power of unconditional love. The poems are inspirational, motivational, and divine.Booker T. Smith, Jr. earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from the University of South Alabama, a Master of Science in agency counseling from Alabama State University and has pursued further studies in Elementary Education. For thirty years, he was employed as a Juvenile Probation Officer with the state of Alabama. He was instrumental in writing, developing and coordinating the state's gun program the objective being recidivism reduction in the rate of gun offenses committed by adjudicated juveniles that were originally referred to the program. He also wrote, developed and coordinated the Behavior Aide Program which was designed to maximize the child's potential, while minimizing behavioral conflicts. He acquired over 4,000 hours of therapeutic contact as an outpatient therapist for runaways and as an addiction therapist in a private clinic. I highly recommend this poignant and insightful book. Mr. Smith draws from 30 years as a counselor and reflects on some of the major issues of our time. This is a must read. -Nathaniel Abston, Jr., Ph.D., Licensed Clinical PsychologistMr. Smith's poetic brilliance is displayed in these raw, deeply-rooted, genuine expressions regarding timely issues. He has captured the essence and reality of life. "Poetry for Life" is essential reading. -Linda Johnson Mosley, Ed.D., Psychologist, Counselor, Advisor and EducatorMr. Smith worked, diligently, to transition at-risk juveniles back into mainstream society. He maintained compassion while demonstrating a strong desire to rescue them. -Regina G. Love, Judicial Supervisor