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# Chapter
- URL: https://dianaludwick.com/chapter/
- Published: 2026-03-11T21:33:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-24T20:10:54.000Z
- Description: “Chapter,” written March 11, inspired by an alma mater presidential address, poem 070 in a series of 365 poems written by Diana Ludwick in 2026. Photo, "Archive Red Lantern," by Diana Ludwick (c) 2026.
- Author: Diana Ludwick
- Tags: 2026 Poetry Challenge, Homage, Poems, Alumni, College, Community, Education, March, Siblinghood, Sisterhood, Women, #Migrated-1792872215677, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-10-24 20:03

Last night at dusk  
I ventured into the city.  
It was eighty degrees,  
balmy and beautiful.  
  
I floated without a shiver  
over concrete and asphalt  
in my sleeveless silk top  
and a flowy skirt.  
  
On clicking heels,  
I entered the library  
and found myself embraced  
by a parliament of owls.  
  
All around me:   
smart curious thinkers  
with expansive vocabularies,  
bright faces and open minds.  
  
Over canapes and crudite  
we caught up and embraced  
shared introductions and  
brought another into the circle.  
  
A hush fell upon us;  
we turned to the lectern.  
We heard first-hand  
about the next chapter  
of our shared institution.  
  
A ripple of energy  
buzzed through  
the gathered party  
as we witnessed the future.  
  
So much can be gained  
far in front of us  
if we only rely on our  
North Star.  
  
Our Five Pillars will guide us  
as we navigate beyond   
the turbulent surf of today  
to light a path for a distant day.  
  
How full of wisdom   
— and practicality —   
to anchor on the heavens  
instead of staying mired  
in daily skirmishes.  
  
I left rejuvenated  
and reminded   
of purpose,   
of community.  
  
We all have levers   
in this world that we hold,  
that we can influence,  
support and amplify.  
  
How will we help  
shape our legacy?  
The next chapter  
depends on us.