illusion [ il-lu-sion /n./ a defense mechanism issued by stress in an attempt to protect you. but protect you from what? Illusions is a poetry collection telling the tale of journeying within, facing oneself, meeting the illusions along the way, and emerging with lessons learned. I met my Illusions and gave them a pen. a screen, a veil over my eyes. i lived this way for many years- knowing, but not knowing that it exists. hiding all the torment inside. then when i asked to know Him more, a journey i was made to go.

that through this journey i would find, the illusions that long covered my eyes. that i must write and know their names. - stephanie anderson When all is said and done: Go and create! After you read my pain, my journey, my start, go and create from the beat of your heart. This lesson I learned, I give to you, before you even read the book. That if you want to speak with pain, you first must learn its language. To look within, to give it the reins, and let it create. You only sit back with awareness. What to create? Your heart knows.

Note: If you have experienced severe anxiety or trauma, this book may contain triggers. Please proceed with care, take your time, make a safe space, and let yourself feel. Most importantly, let someone you trust know. This book is for those who are ready to face their within. Ready to name their illusions. If you are not there yet, it's alright. This book will be here for when you are. Keep fighting, keep going.

You are so desperately needed in this world.