Poems by

Janie E. Bibbie

Words that bring light, hope, and quiet reflection.

“You will be a source of encouragement and hope to others.”

JOY LIKE RAIN

Joy is raining down

Filling spaces all around

Lifting smiles up from frowns

Dancing lightly on the ground

Joy is spreading to my hands

Making clapping sounds in here

Chasing darkness out

Joy is standing on my feet

Making them tap to a beat

Joy is music in my ears

I can hear it in my heart

Joy is spreading all around

Raining

Raining

Raining down.

Meet the Poet

Janie E. Bibbie writes poems that have been shared in journals, churches, and community gatherings. She served as Tompkins County Poet Laureate (2023–2024) and continues to write about life, love, and the moments that shape us.

About Janie

Collections in Print

Explore Janie’s published books, available on Amazon.

  • DANCING WITH A WANDERER: Poems for Morning, Midday, Evening and Night

    Available on Amazon in Kindle and Paperback


    The title poem, Dancing with a Wanderer, describes how the author felt when walking with her husband after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Other poem topics include friendship, family, dreadlocks, vacation, fishing, food, identity, and more. The author credits her faith as the guiding principle in her life and looks to inspire others to be the best version of themselves.

  • Bill's Book: A Promise Kept: Poems and Photos

    Available on Amazon in Kindle and Paperback

    Bill’s Book is a result of a promise made when life was “normal” and “routine”. He loved cameras and photography. She loved to write. He had a great idea for a book. He said, “You write the words, and I’ll take the photographs.” They agreed that was a great idea! Years passed, and they did nothing to make their dream a reality. He lost his ability to use cameras and take photographs. She spent her time taking care of him. Bill’s Book is a collection of poems and photographs. She is keeping her promise and fulfilling their dream.

  • Eclipse: Poems for Brighter Days

    Available on Amazon in Kindle and Paperback

    We cannot hide from an eclipse. We marvel at the way light is swallowed by darkness. We protect our eyes. In eclipse-of-life circumstances, we do whatever we can to protect our minds as we wait for light to return. As you read these poems, and whenever you emerge from an eclipse-of-life situation, recall how you made it through the darkness and found brighter days.

  • Flow: Poems for Peace to Your Mind

    Flow: Poems for Peace to Your Mind

    Responsibilities can be overwhelming at times. You need a few moments to relax, let go of your worries, and find something that brings peace to your mind. Notice how you feel when an infant holds your finger. That soft touch brings peace to your mind and all of those worries about your responsibilities fade away. Look at a flower, or a mountain, or a waterfall; notice how the beauty of nature brings peace to your mind. Whenever you recall those few moments, allow yourself to smile, and appreciate, the things that matter most in life. These poems will help you focus on little things, and big things, that can bring peace to your mind.

Books also available locally at Odyssey Bookstore.  

Odyssey Bookstore

Connect & Share

If you’d like updates on readings, new poems, or to invite Janie to share her work, send a message, leave a note, or simply say hello.

Contact Janie