Heart of the Desert

"Heart of the Desert" is a collection of poems written by Monte J Hanks, a Vietnam veteran who worked with the homeless population of Salt Lake City, Utah for over 30 years. Watercolor paintings throughout the book were created by artist, Jessica Hanks Kaserman.

Throughout this collection of desert inspired poetry and artwork, you will find internal reflections, a deep search for meaning, and ultimately, a red, sandstone path to healing.

This collection also includes a list of recommended reading, curated by the author. It includes titles of works that inspired Monte's journey to healing and to become a poet himself, such as:

• Dreamwork and Westwind by Mary Oliver
• The Rag and Bone Shop of the Heart: Poetry for Men by Robert Bly, James Hillman and Michael Meade
• An American Sunrise and Poet Warrior by Native American poet, Joy Harjo
• Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey
• Red, Passion and Patience in the Desert by Terry Tempest Williams

About the Author:

Monte has walked several decades of his life's journey, and time has diverted him down roads of disappointment, anger, and at times ultimate despair. But it has also been filled with gratitude, growth, and a discovery of self. The past has shaped his future, being a footprint of who he has become. At times, the twists of the journey surprise him in the direction they take. He has many experiences that demonstrate the true will of the human spirit, both personally and professionally. He is a Vietnam Veteran and that time in his life left permanent memories, some painful and others full of gratitude.

After his time in the military, he struggled with substance abuse, eventually overcoming that dark period of his life. For 20 years he worked a variety of jobs just trying to survive. He chose a hard path that was physically demanding. After a "wake-up call" by the death of his father, he returned to college at 41 to find a new career that was personally fulfilling.

After graduating and for the next 30 years, Monte worked with those experiencing homelessness in Salt Lake City. He created programs when other options didn't exist, establishing community relations and building collaborations, but most importantly, being present to homeless men and women to offer resources, kindness, and, above all, hope.

Monte would not say that he is self-accomplished, rather accomplishing what moves his soul. He retired this year and has returned to writing poetry and perhaps to finish a couple of books he began years ago.

His journey is changing direction, so perhaps there are more surprises yet to come.