By Genoa Barrow | OBSERVER SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Helen Hill has a collection of poems in her dresser drawer that she pulls out in those private moments when she needs a little illumination.

Local poet Helen Hill says she "shoots straight from her soul," using her gift to inspire and empower others. Her book "Soulful Inspirations" is in stores now.

"When I'm down and out, I turn to them. Poetry soothes the soul," says Hill, the author of the new book "Soulful Inspirations."

Much of the local writer's work stems from personal experiences.

"My marriage ended in 2001 and I was filled with so many emotions - anger, guilt and betrayal," she said. "I wanted to take those emotions, and not be mad at my spouse or at God, and put them on paper. I'm a better person for it."

Hill, a mother of two, describes herself as a "God-fearing Southern girl." Her poems are a clear reflection of her faith in a higher power. With poems like "Reasons For Going To Church," "Hey Christ … Let's Hook Up," and "The First Sunday," the pages of "Soulful Inspirations" speak of the power of prayer, false Christians and the need for seeking guidance when one comes to a crossroads in life.

"I am a real person, with real stumbling blocks. You will find that with each poem I have written, I keep it real," reads an excerpt from the book's introduction. "I hold no punches, I don't sugarcoat, I just keep it real."

In addition to book signings like the one she conducted at the Underground Books in July, Hill shares her works, and the message behind them, at local churches and women's missions.

"I do believe God called me to do this. I have to inspire people. I have to," she said.

"People come up to me all the time and say 'you helped me' or 'how did you know I was going through that?' I know what I've been through and if I can touch one person with this book, I've done my job," she continued.

The self-published book was actually part of a prize in a poetry contest run by a Maryland-based company. While others have had bad experiences with self-publishing offers, non-paying anthologies and contests that don't quite pan out, Hill calls her deal a blessing.

"We control where they (the books) go. That's what I like about Watermark Press. It allows me to be my own boss."

Hill is currently working on a new book, "I Only Say What People Feel," set for a December release.