PeakNews Online
By Rukayat Adeyemi
Lagos, July 6, 2024 (NAN) A poet, Mrs Lilian Ario on Saturday, launched a collection of 70 poems titled: “Petals of Life”, that speaks against social vices and encourages people.
In her address at the launch of the poem in Lagos, Ario explained that the poem explored themes, such as: love, loss, joy, sorrow, growth, and reflection.
She said: “The inspiration for “Petals of Life” comes from my enduring passion for writing.
“As my pastor often says, ‘you learn to pray by praying’, similarly, I learned to write by writing. My poetry is my way of inspiring, motivating, and speaking against the social vices that plague our society.
“Through these poems, I delve into diverse life experiences that resonate with everyone, capturing a sense of connection to the universal experiences we all share.
“The journey of creating this collection was filled with joy and significant challenges.
“There were times when I doubted myself, but the encouragement I received kept me going,” she said.
Ario, also the Secretary, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists(NAWOJ) Lagos Chapter, said the publication of the poem was made possible with the unwavering support of her husband, Pastor Ezra-Ben Ario, family, and friends.
She appreciated the presence of the National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists(NUJ), Dr Chris Isiguzo, and Chairman, NUJ of Oyo State.
The poet, also a broadcast journalist at Voice of Nigeria (VON) thanked Dr Abiodun Bello from the United States for vetting the collections, as well as Dr Stephen Fatonji, lecturer, Lagos State University, for his insights.
She also lauded the poem publisher, Mr Gbenga of Sonnets Media, for believing in her vision and helping to bring it to fruition.
In his remark, the NUJ President, Isiguzo urged Nigerians to imbibe the culture of reading, especially as a healing therapy in the current economic situation.
Isiguzo congratulated the poet for a job well done and charged journalists to devote their time to innovative projects, especially in this era of the internet.
In a goodwill message, the National Chairperson of NAWOJ, Hajia Ayisat Bura, said that the launch of the poem reminds of the power of words and the enduring impact of storytelling.
Bura, represented by Mrs Adeola Ekine, Chairperson, NAWOJ Lagos Chapter, said the book was not just a collection of poems.
According to her, it is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and unwavering spirit of women who strive to make their voices heard in a world that often seeks to silence them.
“Ario has beautifully encapsulated the essence of life’s journey in “Petals of Life”. Her narrative weaves through human experiences, capturing moments of joy, sorrow, triumph, and reflection.
“As women journalists, we understand the significance of telling authentic stories that resonate with the realities of our diverse society.
“Ario’s work is a shining example of how literature can bridge gaps, foster understanding, and inspire change.
Bura congratulated the poet for the outstanding achievement and prayed that the poem touches hearts, sparks conversations, and inspire many more women to share their stories with the world. (NAN)
