By Staci Jones | The Selma Times-Journal

Selma native Gail Box Ingram published a book of poetry this past March.

“Komorebi” is the title of Ingram’s poetry book that ranges in themes from nature, family, careers, pets and her life in Japan.

Komorebi is Ingram’s favorite word and is Japanese for “light shining through.”

“Poetry is a gift God gave to me,” Ingram said. “I feel that it is a way for him to let his light shine through me . . . on to other people.”

Ingram started writing poems at 14 years old. She says that she never thought much of it in the beginning; it just gave her something to do when she was either sad or happy.

At around 17, Ingram was elected the Parrish High School Poet. Serving as the high school poet and receiving positive feedback from teachers is what Ingram says led her to continue to pursue poetry.

At 14, Ingram wrote for a class assignment, a story on the one place she would love to visit — Japan.

“I never would have thought that my daughter would one day live there and even marry a Japanese man, “ Ingram said. “I love the culture and everything about Japan.”

She also credits some of her inspiration to her frequent visits to see her daughter and grandchild in Japan.

Ingram aims to celebrate life through her book and also hopes to demystify the misconception of poets. She says that if someone wants to understand poetry, her book is the one to read.

“Poetry synopsizes things. It makes me able to say things for people that they can’t say for themselves. It helps me bring them insight,” Ingram said.

Ingram dedicates her book to both her husband, Bracken, and to anyone seeking to find the true light. Her first poem written in the book is what Ingram describes as one of the best ways to describe her book and its purpose.

Komorebi

is

the way to be;

light shining through,

bringing beauty

and

a way to see.

You are invited to come and see.

“My purpose for writing the book was to glorify God’s light. I am thankful to the Lord for seeing me through. I feel like a dream was fulfilled,” Ingram said. “I hope my book can lead others to fulfill theirs.”

“Komorebi” can be purchased locally at One Way Bookstore, Pilcher McBryde Drug Store or Sturdivant Bookstore. The book can be purchased online at amazon.com and barnesandnobles.com. For more information or to receive a signed copy, Gail Box Ingram can be reached at mpoetg@yahoo.com.