New gains can blossom from old pains with the art of writing. A new workshop will show how to turn tears and terrors into hope, healing, and happiness.

“When you write, you uncover your own strength, word by word,” said Kiesa Kay, author and workshop co-facilitator.

Lynne Parsons, PsyD, will co-lead the workshop, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, at Morning Glory Farm, 490 White Fence Lane, in Mill Spring.  Lynne is a clinical psychologist who teaches medical doctors and has led a private practice for the past 30 years. Kay has written two chapbooks of poetry, two educational anthologies, a local history book and a play. Under the pseudonym “Mimosa May,” she wrote a memoir, titled Tornado Alley. Both women have facilitated groups for healing and self-empowerment.

“I had challenges in childhood, and learned early how to write my way into a more joyful place,” Kay said. “Writing it out provided the validation that other people couldn’t give. It’s a wonderful tool for self-reliance.”