The below poems were co created during a Creative Writing Workshop facilitated by Renascent Addictions Counsellor, Cynthia Langill on January 12, 2026. The workshop’s theme was: connection.

Poem Co-created by Clients at Renascent Madison Avenue Centre

I am an alcoholic.
which I choose not to be.
Started out not breathing.
Echoes bouncing from the shadow of the valley below.

As long as the bonds are stronger than the ones that will tear us apart,
our flame will stay forever burning.

But you better watch our for the Lorax.

Short term pain for long-term gain.
Connection is key, only wen you can see.

Poem Co-created by Renascent Alumni

Connection to me is sacred as I learn to navigate this new world
I know this light will be with me forever
I knew it the second it happened
Connection, for me, often lives in the in-between —
wanting to belong

Fear says don’t go there, but my heart and to connect with you, to avoid the zoo, I have no choice
Lift up my eye lids, make them weightless. I cannot wait let’s let the light in.
Healthy connection in relationship is a lifeline to a longer life.