Sharon Drummond

To the family of Sharon Drummond:



I came to meet Sharon only last November, as facilitator at the Sage Hill Fall Poetry Colloquium, where I was fortunate to work very closely with her. Through the frequent one-to-one meeting process I had with each member of the small group of poets over the two-week residency, Sharon and I discussed her poems during an exceptionally creative and rewarding period in her life as poet. It was a wonderful time for her, as one of a fabulous group of supportive poets where each artist brought a spirit of generosity and respect for the others with a conviction in language and poetry. In our shared mealtimes, walks, and social gatherings - filled with no small amount of laughter - Sharon gave us integrity, care and a gentle yet determined spirit. She came with a goal to complete a manuscript for her next book of poems, and she amazed us all with her focus, diligence, discipline and talent. I vividly recall that day, nearing the end of the colloquium, when she came to me, her eyes shining: “Gerry, I’ve finished the manuscript!” I feel honoured I spent those times with her.



For now, the splendid words she wrote these last months will comfort. You will see Sharon in these poems at all stages of her life, honouring the people who made her life. And in the months and years ahead you will have a true enduring treasure created with vision and love and left for you and succeeding generations. It is a marvellous accomplishment.



Gerry Shikatani

Poet-Facilitator,

Sage Hill Fall Poetry Colloquium, 2004

Dear Drummond Family:



It took my breath away to hear about Sharon's death. We met in Banff in the Wired Writing Studio Program. What struck me about Sharon was how content she was (an anomaly in the poetry world) and how much she loved her family and her work.

Sharon seemed to take her life in with all the senses. I remember her pouring over every word, trying to to capture the moments. Sharon didn't want to miss a thing.

I can see how blessed one would feel to have been the focus of her heart.

I'm very sorry for your loss.

To the Family of Sharon Drummond,



Sharon was a participant at the Sage Hill Writing Experience Fall Poetry Colloquium in November 2004. As the director of that program I spent two weeks with the small group of poets of which she was a part. We all got to know each other well and quickly. Sharon was radiant and productive during that time and was a positive presence. She completed a poetry manuscript at the end of the program and even mailed it from Sage Hill to her publisher. We were all delighted. I trust that this book will be among her parting gifts to the world. It was a priviledge to share this fruitful time with her.

Dear John and family, our prayers and thoughts are with you. We were so sorry to hear the news. Love, soc and vesta

To Sharon's family,



I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother and wife. I had been hired at the Alexandra Writers'Centre Society a few years ago when Sharon was the president. I really enjoyed working with her at the AWCS. She made me feel very welcome.

Sharon was one of my favourite people in that community - I will sure miss her too.



Heather High