Chaucer’s Books will present an Evening of Poetry with Swamini B., reading from her book ”I’m Not My Story: A Poetic Journey of Healing,” 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 30 at 3321 State St., Santa Barbara.

“I’m Not My Story: A Poetic Journey of Healing” is a poetry collection focused on healing, resilience, and the journey back to wholeness, Chaucer’s explained.

Rooted in lived experience, Santa Barbara-based Swamini B. writes about what it means to face the past without being defined by it. Through poetry, she separates what happened from who she is, reclaiming identity with clarity and dignity.

Divided into three sections — Turmoil, Insights, and Freedom — the collection follows a progression from silence toward self-acceptance.

“The poems bear witness to grief, anger, shame, and trust, while honoring the gradual rebuilding of inner safety,” event organizers said. “‘I’m Not My Story’ does not turn away from the past, it meets it directly, and moves beyond it.”

Written for survivors, allies, and those seeking language for healing, the work affirms the possibility of renewal and a life not defined by the past.

Swamini B. is a poet, survivor, and contemporary monk, according to Chaucer’s. Through poetry, she said she found a part of herself that remained untouched despite everything she had endured. It gave her a place to speak her truth. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



 
 
 
 




 
 
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      
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