How do you write your poems? Poets?

When it comes to my newspaper column I start that first paragraph in my head and then miraculously the story evolves. ( even when I am procrastinating and I dread writing it) With poetry I have to also feel it and once that first line is written it does seem to just write itself. I don't write a whole lot of poetry and when I do it is mostly personal, and from the heart. Occasionally I share it with a close friend, but usually it is for me alone. My column is different in that I share a big portion of "me" and try to inspire and encourage others.My column at times feels like work and other times it is a real breeze and the words and thoughts just come so easily.. ( I love those days) Poetry just flows when it does come.