HISTORY OF "I'M FREE"
I wrote the poem "I'm Free" on June 22, 1974. I still have the original handwritten poem with that date noted on it. I had been to a funeral and consequently, began to think about my own mortality. Being 35 years old at the time -- a wife and a mother -- I did not want anyone to be sad if I died at that age. For me, all the big questions had been answered: "Would I marry?" "Would I have children?"
My mother tried to persuade me to obtain a copyright on "I'm Free," but I could not imagine -- at that time -- of it being of interest to anyone except for mortuaries! I finally applied for and received a copyright dated May 9, 1994 (registration number TX 3-837-377). When the Internet came into our lives, I found my poem listed on so many different sources. In most cases, my name is not included, attributed to "author unknown," or is listed with the name of someone else.
My Poem has been altered slightly in most cases, and used on Web pages for loved ones, a champion quarter horse or beloved pets. It has been listed on memorials for Michael Hutchence (a rock star), a 9/11 memorial, Columbine High School, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes (R & B group TLC), Kenny Irwin (NASCAR driver), Ossie Davis, and Whitney Houston.
I am happy for people to use my Poem for memorial services and other noncommercial uses. My one request is that it is not altered and that my name is credited to the poem. If any part of the poem brings comfort to others, then it would make me very happy. I do sell a few products on an Etsy Shop if there is interest on personalized products. If you have any special requests for products please reach out and I will try and help. Otherwise I would love to hear from you and how you use my poem.
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MAY I USE YOUR POEM?
I am happy for people to use my Poem for memorial services and other noncommercial uses. I request that my name is credited to the poem. If any part of the poem brings comfort to others, then it would make me very happy. I would love to hear how you use my poem.
Please email your story, include your location, as it is nice to know what part of the world you are from and I will be in touch.
For commercial publication -- or if you have any questions -- please contact me.
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"I'M FREE" - THE POEM
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