Reflections 2012

Archbishop McNicholas High School 6536 Beechmont Avenue Cincinnati, Ohio 45230

Table of Contents Writers

Writers

Pages

Baca, Adam DeLuca, Rachele Edwards, Taylor Fehn, Michael Flatt, Mark Foltz, Jen Fortin, Emily Frenzel, Scott Gabbard, Matt Gerome, Connor Grogan, Kyle Heineke, Anna Heyl, Matthew Hladky, Lindsey Huffman, Peter Kamphaus, Allison Kenney, Kaitlin Kidwell, Molly Lamping, Lauren Lewis, Josh Losekamp, Tony Lundrigan, Megan Lynd, Danielle McGraw, Meaghan Miller, Bridgett

21 18 23 25 10 56 22, 34, 39 11, 42 25, 46 33 52 19, 34, 38 50 4 9, 20 45 53 26 6, 27 7 32, 51 8, 37 19, 43 7, 17, 30, 47 6, 19, 20, 27, 35, 45, 46, 48 44, 52 54 24, 38 5, 39 49 48 22, 51 28, 41 23

Morrow, Kerry Noland, Sam Roberts, Taylor Ruwe, Sarah Schaefer, Kaitlyn Scheidler, Samantha Schmidt, Ben Scott, Lauren Shrader, Corey

Simmons, Megan Sorensen, Maddie Stanfield, Dillon Stewart, Sydney Sullivan, Brendan Timmons, Drew Uhl, Ellen Weir, Maddie Young, Kyle Zalewski, Adam Zicka, Jenna Zurovchak, Kate

Pages 4, 25 10 40 9 36, 37 17, 29, 35 29, 41 53, 55 12-16 47 31 4, 18, 27, 31, 50

Chief Editor:

Taylor Roberts Art Editor:

Sydney Stewart

Editing Staff:

Rachele DeLuca

Josh Lewis Danielle Lynd

Sarah Ruwe Maddie Sorensen Adam Zalewski Moderator:

Mrs. Meloney Feldkamp Special Thanks to Consultants: Mrs. Valerie Combs Mrs. Mary Rudd Sterling Shaw 2

Artists

Pages

Artists

Pages

Baker, Sydney Feldkamp, Emily Foltz, Jen Gerke, Seth Giambrone, Augie Hiltz, Grace Kaimer, Ericka Ketchum, Erin Meineke, Alison

17 45 3, 8, 16 1, 23, 35 23 47 38 26 28, 48, 56

Miller, Bridgett Morrow, Kerry Paquette, Laura Poole, Danny Ready, Jordan Schuh, Anna Stanfield, Dillon Uhl, Ellen Unknown

5, 18, 27 52 50 55 41 10 cover, 32, 40 24, 29 53

Reflections is a co-curricular publication of the English and Fine Arts Departments of Archbishop McNicholas High School, 6536 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45230. It features original poetry, formula poems, reflections, songs, short stories, artwork, and photography of students in grades 9-12. Archbishop McNicholas High School does not necessarily endorse the content of any of the writing, artwork, or photography, but offers the magazine as a vehicle for creative expression.

Growing Up

the smell of books the taste of tears the nighttime chill of small girl fears the warmth of hugs the cold of snow the promise of time still to grow the awe of life when you’re so small why do they want to grow at all?

Megan Simmons

Uncle Uncle, why don’t you remember my name?

I know you’re not the one to blame.

Sometimes you forget where you placed your wallet, But trust me when I say I just saw it.

It’s sad to see your mind is gone and when you pace out in the lawn.

Just know that we are all here for you, when you forget to tie your shoe.

Lindsey Hladky

4

A Dying Soldier My dear why are you crying?

I’m only going for war.

My dear why are you crying?

I’ll only miss you more.

My dear why are you crying?

I’ve just gotten here.

My dear why are you crying?

You have nothing to fear.

My dear why are you crying?

I’m only loading my gun.

My dear why are you crying?

I’ve only just begun.

My dear why are you crying?

I’ve only been shot.

My dear why are you crying?

Aren’t you proud I fought?

My dear why are you crying?

I will be all right.

My dear why are you crying?

You call my name into the night.

My dear why are you crying?

You collapse onto the ground.

My dear why are you crying?

You utter not a sound.

My dear why are crying?

A letter falls from your hand.

My dear why are you crying?

Now I understand.

Kate Zurovchak

Yellow Rose

A yellow rose in a crystalline vase, Is the first thing I see when I walk in.

It brings me back to the memories of you When you lost your hair and got so thin.

The pain in my heart feels just the same As it did on the day you died.

It hasn’t dulled in the months that have passed Since I dressed in black and silently cried.

A yellow rose they gave to me, To put on your coffin, where you now sleep.

I keep one now to keep you near me, Even though each time I see it I weep.

I miss you so much; I just have one wish.

A selfish one, but my feelings are sincere.

You were my saint, and I loved you so More than anything, I wish you were here.

Sarah Ruwe 5

Big Brother You have always pushed me to the limit.

You have never given up on me.

You may not have always been there to watch me But you practiced with me and showed me everything I need to know.

I know we fight and sometimes don’t get along, But you’re the one I think to when things are going wrong.

Whenever you had friends over you always wanted me out, I always wanted the favor returned without a doubt.

Even though you’re in college now and four hours away, I don’t show it but I miss you almost every day.

I miss the games of 21 we played out under the light, The way you were so cocky you think I wouldn’t put up a fight.

I miss our little talks while I stood out in the hall, It was the only time I really saw you without giving you a call.

For now our fun is over while you move on to things, But just remember that you will always be my BIG BROTHER no matter who unties the strings.

Lauren Lamping

Dream She runs through the fields, painted in gold. To where the sky and earth meet, to where time is endless, nothing but a dream.

6

Bridgett Miller

Sick of My Anger Every day, consumed by Hate Leading to my depression Killing all that I find joyful in this world Driving away all whom I care for Breaking every bone in my body Suffocating everything that I want to be Killing everything that I am Giving life to something I do not want to be

Josh Lewis

A Brewing Storm I started into a run. Faster and faster; trying to get something I cannot reach. A storm rolls in shooting down bolts of lightning that are followed by low grumbles of thunder. It’s catching up to me just to show that I cannot run forever. The rain landing on my head is getting harder. The big black clouds are now never ending and are spitting out their worst. With rain running down my entire body, I run to the top of the hill and just stop. I am completely enveloped in the storm I call life.

It is throwing everything it can at me, and what can I do? Bolts of lightning strike just a few feet away from me followed by sharp crashes of thunder. What am I even doing here? Then I dropped to my knees being struck by lightning, I broke open with a loud bang. Not rain, but tears stream down my face. The only way to get through a heavy storm is to keep going when I fall and push through what has been thrown my way. So I got up and started to run again.

7 Meaghan McGraw

Summertime Summertime is going to Gatlinburg with family

watching the Fourth of July fireworks go off

in the mountains Summertime is going to concerts with your best friends

dancing until your feet have blisters and screaming till your voice is gone Summertime is the first plunge into an icy pool

goose bumps running down your arms and legs Summertime is going to festivals with friends

eating funnel cakes that melt in your mouth

brushing the powdered sugar off each other Summertime is meeting a new boy who takes your breath away

goodnight kisses under the neon lights at the fair Summertime is traveling to Nashville with my best friend

hearing new songs, voices, and instruments playing

with every step we take Summertime is lying on the deck with my older sister

tanning and exchanging high school/college drama Summertime is crying in your mom’s arms from the boy who broke your heart

while she swears to you she will hire a hit man and take him down Summertime is taking trips to Indiana to see Uncle Bob

tubing on the river and holding on as the boat speeds faster

and blisters on your palms from clinging to the tube Summertime is sitting around a bonfire with your close friends

promising nothing will ever come between the friendship you share

holding on to all the memories being made Summertime is sunshine and blue skies

perfect days, perfect nights, perfect memories

8

Megan Lundrigan

Forever in my Heart

Do Not Throw Away this Poem Dear Anna, I got bored in math class So I wrote this piece of prose Why I did this is a mystery Why I wrote this no one knows I just thought I’d give it to you To brighten up your day And if you do not like it Please don’t throw it away Toss it in the Hudson Bay Give it to a horse for hay Use it to fix tooth decay Make a poster for Aunt May Stomp upon it, jump upon it Stick it in your sister’s bonnet Burn it with a lighted match Crumple it up and play catch Twist it, shred it, knead it, tear it Eat it, for it tastes like carrot Feed it to a pretty parrot Maybe just give it to Garrett But I beg you, don’t destroy it It is something to remember me by At the least, you can employ it As a tissue when you cry And this poem’s getting drawn out And I’m running out of space So I must not see it thrown out Or I’ll rearrange your face Hide it in a bag of limes Whoops, I just ran out of rhymes.

Peter Huffman

Today started without you And the sun is shining bright.

I look out through the window And something tells me you’re doing all right.

I know you didn’t remember me Before they laid you down to rest But the memories I have of you Will always be the best.

I’m going to miss your smile That was always so big on your face.

Where a frown never seemed to leave Any kind of trace.

My heart throbs And my teardrops hit the floor Because I wish I would have said goodbye The last time I walked out your door.

As I stood in front of the crowd Close to where you lay, I took a deep breath and tried to fight All the tears away.

When I held that heavy page I read the words my mouth couldn’t seem to find.

I lost it all and began to cry, I hope you didn’t mind.

God gained an angel That I do not doubt.

No matter where you are I know your love we will never be without.

So today started without you And I feel as if I were hit with a dart.

I hope you know how much you meant to me And that you’re forever in my heart.

Sydney Stewart 9

How Original…

Who am I? More importantly, who are you?

I can't be concerned with myself.

No, no, no, that just won't do.

Cheers to my mother Cheers to my mother She is a wonderful mom So gentle, but very strong She makes me feel like I belong I love her just like bees love honey My mom is like honey, so sweet Did I mention she is funny?

My mom taught me what is wrong and right She taught me how to cook and tie my

shoes She taught me how to read and write.

So I say cheers to my mother Because she deserves it all She is always by my side She even picks me up when I fall.

Do you like that awesome, new song?

Yeah, I agree, it totally sucks.

No I don't do that stuff really, Unless you do; then I do it all the time.

Don't worry; I'll just like what you like And do what you do.

I'm fitting in and that's what matters, Am I having fun too?

No, break away from it.

Be yourself my friend, You conform to fit, And that leads to the end.

Be original, Be who you are, Be funky fresh, Just don't do to impress.

My mom is kind as can be She tells me I am perfect just the way I am She tells me to be the best I can be.

Don't change in a whim, We need a you, We already have one of him, And we sure don't need a him number two…

So I say thanks mom You are the best Thanks for supporting me Your arms are like a comforting nest.

So don't worry about fitting in, Because everyone’s in somewhere.

It's a place we've all been, You should come out of there.

Maddie Sorensen

10

Mark Flatt

The Way You Left Me I’m startin to lose it Flipping tables and punching walls You really don’t get it We used to have it all But I guess that wasn’t good enough for some of us I guess we wanted a little bit more I shoulda never trusted you I knew what you could do But I let you in and look what you did I wish I could go back But I have to accept the fact

I can’t see behind the lies Is this what you wanted to be Cause you’re no longer Just a man who helped make me

You’re gonna fall from cloud nine And know what you left behind you’re gonna wake up and see The way you left me You thought you could get it all But that was your downfall So you’ll wake up and see The way you left me The way you left me

I shoulda never trusted you I knew what you could do But I let you in and look what you did I wish I could go back But I have to accept the fact You’re gonna fall from cloud nine And know what you left behind you’re gonna wake up and see The way you left me You thought you could get it all But that was your downfall So you’ll wake up and see The way you left me The way you left me

I thought you meant When you said you’d never leave I guess I was foolin myself More than you were foolin me I put my trust in you And look what you had to do I don’t know if you meant it But it hurts all the same I shoulda never trusted you I knew what you could do But I let you in and look what you did I wish I could go back But I have to accept the fact

You’re gonna fall from cloud nine And know what you left behind you’re gonna wake up and see The way you left me You thought you could get it all But that was your downfall So you’ll wake up and see The way you left me The way you left me

You’re gonna fall from cloud nine The way you left me Scott Frenzel 11

The Vacation

My friend Lyssa and I were going on vacation during summer break. We were going to the house of my friend, who was having a party. We would stay down there for about a week, nothing but a bunch of friends in the hot and sunny state of Nevada. As my friend and I drove down the long road in Nevada, we realized that there was not going to be another gas station for miles. I checked the fuel gauge. We wouldn’t last long on the small amount of gas that was left. We got very uneasy and afraid that we would be stuck out in the middle of Nevada on the deserted road that hardly anyone has been on ever since we started driving on it. And, we had been driving on it for around two hours and had seen only about three other cars. I sped up, driven by my fear of being stranded.

After about fifteen minutes, the car started to move strangely, as if the gas would soon be depleted to nothing. We were frantic now, going very fast to get as far down the road as possible. The car probably only had enough gas to get about five minutes further. Then we saw the gas station. It was old, beat up, and deserted. I slowly pulled in and stopped by one of the gas pumps. It was very rusty, but usable.

“Lyssa, pump the gas for me. I’m going inside to make sure they’re open.”

I went to the door and tried to open it. It stuck, and I was afraid that there may not be any way to get gas at all. But on about the third try, the door opened. It was probably just old and rusty, like everything else. I stepped inside the small store and saw no one. I looked at Lyssa, who seemed to be pumping the gas without any trouble at all.

I looked around at the wreckage of the place. Shelves overturned, drawers lying on the ground, broken glass on the floor. It looked like a bomb had exploded in the place or something. I scavenged some snacks that hadn’t been torn apart from the mostly destroyed shelves. There were mostly chips, but there were a few packs of candy and gum, too. There were drinks in the broken refrigerators, but by now they were all warm. I took some soda anyway. There obviously wasn’t anyone else using the supplies.

As I prepared to leave the wreckage of the store, I heard something. I wish to God that I had just ignored the sound and passed it off as the wind and quickly walked out of the gas station and got back in the car. Or maybe it would have been better to have not even stopped at that terrifying place.

But it’s too late to change anything now. I remember stopping, putting the scavenged food and beverages on the counter of the store. I was silent, and listened. I heard the sound again; it was a light cry, as if from a small girl. I slowly followed the direction of the sound and saw a door that I hadn’t noticed before. I approached the door and grabbed the handle. Oh God, why did I have to go down there? Why couldn’t I have just realized that Lyssa was probably done pumping the gas, walked out of the store, got in the car, and drove? Was it because it didn’t want me to? Maybe it knew that no one could leave a little girl crying behind a mysterious door, knowing that the girl could be hurt?

I tried the mysterious door, but it, like the entrance door, was hard to open. It took four strong tugs to open the door. I looked down into a dark basement with old wooden stairs leading into the darkness. The crying grew louder now, and I knew that the girl was in there. I slowly descended the stairs, half expecting a hole to open up underneath me. When I finally reached the basement floor, I noticed that the floor was overflowed with water. The water was touching the middle of my shins, freezing cold. I looked around the basement, but could hardly see anything. I reached in my pocket and found

12

the Zippo lighter that I always keep with me. It had belonged to my father, who died of cancer when I was only eight. The crying grew louder, into weeping, and when I flicked the lighter on, shrieking. I saw the little girl huddled in the corner of the basement, sitting on her butt with her arms around her legs. I slowly approached her, and she started to be quiet.

“Hey, don’t cry. It’s all gonna be okay,” I comforted the strange little girl. How long had she been down here? I wondered. My brain wasn’t thinking logically. If it had been, maybe I would have turned and left. What kind of little girl could survive sitting in a cold basement, half overflowed with water, with no food or drink (the water seemed oily, it was after all, a gas station), long enough for the store to be destroyed and the door to rust into its hinge? But at the time, all I thought about was what to do with the small girl after rescuing her. Little did I know it would be me needing to be rescued. I continued to get closer to the child. I was right behind her now.

I touched her shoulder. She had a small spasm and turned around. My journey through Hell began there. The girl’s eyes were black. They seemed to somehow glow the color black. I now noticed the greasy, light hair that was falling out of its scalp. I also noticed the paleness and the rashes on its skin. How could I have mistaken that as a little girl? I had one of those moments when you are too scared to scream and all that comes out is a hoarse whisper. I yanked back from the “girl,” banging my head on an overhead pipe in the process. I fell backwards as the creature was trying to stand up. The creature had long hands; each finger had a long dirty finger nail that looked thick and sharp enough to cut a throat. I still managed to keep hold of my lighter, which I now held in front of me as I regained balance and tried to run away.

The creature let out a loud screech that hurt my ears as I made it to the wooden stairs. I ran up them much faster than the first time, grabbed the door handle, and pulled. It got stuck again. I yanked the handle violently, trying to get it to open. I could hear that the creature was walking now, for the first time in God knows how long. The large splashing sounds echoed throughout the basement. I continued pulling at the door as hard as I possibly could. I then realized my stupidity. I pushed on the door and it opened easily. The light shone down into the basement, and I could see the creature’s hand curled around the banister of the stairs. I didn’t keep watching to see the face again. I quickly ran out of the basement and out of the store. I even forgot my snacks.

I leaped into the passenger seat and screamed at Lyssa to drive. Scared, she turned the car on and drove quickly out of the gas station’s parking lot. She kept asking me what had happened, but I was too shocked to even speak. It took me about half an hour just to tell her. When I told her what happened, she looked at me with fear.

“While I was waiting for you, I saw something in the gas station. I saw a little girl and a man, her father I guess. They were standing next to each other. The father was looking in my direction with disinterest, but the girl…she was staring right at me. She also had this terrifying grin that stretched almost all the way across her face. I looked away, thinking the gas station wasn’t closed after all, and there were just some people there already. Then after about five minutes I looked back, and they were gone.

We stayed on the side of the road for a few more minutes; then we started driving again. We drove at a quick speed, still afraid of what we had seen at the gas station. After about half an hour, we saw a gas station up ahead. It was in about the place where it was marked on the map, so I wasn’t

13

afraid. But as we got closer, I saw the rusty pumps, the crappy windows and door, and worst of all, there were two figures standing just outside the door. A man, staring in our direction blankly, and a young girl, smiling literally from ear to ear.

I almost drove the car off the road. I slammed my foot on the pedal and sped up to around eighty miles per hour. We were both freaking out and I had never driven this fast before. It was around sunset by now, and we dreaded what the night might bring. We finally slowed when the gas station was completely out of sight.

“Lyssa…did we turn around when we pulled to the side of the road? All of the corn fields here in Nevada look the same!” I asked her. I pounded my fist on the dashboard in frustration.

“I don’t think we did…did we? No, of course we didn’t. I remember going straight forward after pulling back onto the road,” she answered.

“Then I’ll just keep driving.” I said. After about fifteen minutes of driving, we passed the gas station again. The figures were by the pumps now, closer than before. Once again, I hit the gas and sped up as much as I could.

Night had fallen upon us shortly after this third encounter. We kept driving and decided to take a break. I stopped, and when I did I realized how badly I had to pee. I opened the door and put my foot on the pavement of the road. As soon as I stepped out, the overwhelming stench of the basement caused me to practically fall the rest of the way out of the car. I tried to resist the urge to throw up, could not, and puked all over the side of the road. It was then that I noticed the blur behind us. I didn’t get to urinate, because this figure scared me so badly that I leaped back into the car and hit the gas harder than at the gas station. The figure was sprinting through the dark at us, its limbs practically a blur. There was no face, just a white shape of a head. How long had it been following us?

I didn’t stop driving for a while. We passed the gas station two more times. There was a small road that went off the main road that we had been traveling on that led to a small clearing. We drove down it now, hoping to be able to escape the living nightmare that was hunting us. As we pulled into the clearing, everything seemed to be a bit better. By now Lyssa was in hysterics, randomly crying out and always shaking. I pulled her close, to try to calm her down at least a little. We weren’t dating, but in the state we were in neither of us really cared. I held her and she put her head on my shoulder. A few seconds later she threw herself off of me into the passenger door.

“IT’S HER! IT’S HER!” she screamed. I turned and saw the grinning face of the little girl staring at me through the open window. The girl’s limbs were stretched unusually long. The fingers were the same way, as they flew across my face, feeling the details. It took me forever to even react. When I finally gained control of myself, I moved towards the passenger window. I was practically on top of Lyssa, who was at the moment having a hysterical fit, when I lifted my legs on top of the seat. I kicked the creature and it fell out of the window. But its hand still gripped the top of the car, its finger still inside of it. I jumped back to my seat and rolled the window up as fast as I could, and it closed on the three long fingers. I heard it screech and started the car. The fingers detached from the hand, and fell in my lap. They started to curl, and then started to disperse as if it turned to gas. When they were gone, I drove quickly back to the main road.

Lyssa was no longer awake. She was breathing, but not conscious. She had probably fainted.

After about fifteen minutes, she awoke.

14

“How many times have we passed the gas station since I’ve been asleep?” she asked.

“We haven’t passed it yet,” I replied. Just then, we heard something in the backseat. It was a light cry, as if from a little girl. I let out a moan, and Lyssa screamed in terror.

“Just ignore it,” I commanded. She did and stared miserably out the windshield. I watched the road. After a little while, the crying grew louder. It grew into sobbing, than to moaning, and eventually, shrieking. I couldn’t take it anymore. If that terrible creature from the basement was there, I hoped it would end all of this now. I spun around in my seat and looked into the backseat. I saw something that may have scared me the most. The backseat was empty.

We didn’t see the gas station again. After I looked back at the road and continued, the crying resumed. I drove faster, finally seeing new scenery, besides that horrid gas station. We kept driving for miles. Eventually, we saw other roads branching off from the main road that we traveled on. The crying started to die away. Lyssa started to come back to normal, and not in hysterics. After about another hour of driving, all was perfect. We made it to our friend’s house. There were no cars in the driveway, which was odd. We knocked on the door. No one home. I tried the door, and it was unlocked. We walked in and the stench hit us like a semi-truck. It was the smell of rot. The wooden floors of the two story house were warped and weak. We went to the phone, which was a somewhat newer model. It was covered with dust and was not on.

“Have you been here before?” Lyssa asked.

“Yes, and it was such a nice house,” I replied.

“Where are they?” she asked.

“I have no idea.”

I went around the kitchen, trying to find any indication of life. I opened the refrigerator. All of the food was rotten, and some was not even there anymore. In my 20 years of living, I had learned a few things about science. So I knew that food could take years to completely disappear. And yet, some containers in the refrigerator were empty, as if the food had simply vanished from the container.

I looked around everywhere. I looked at the calendar and was amazed by what I saw. I checked again just to be sure. The month was not June, but February on the calendar. According to my cell phone, it was June 23, 2012. The date on the calendar was February 13, 2000. My eyes widened as I recognized the date. My hand flew to my pocket and grabbed my wallet. I opened the wallet and looked at the picture I kept of my father. Lyssa and I screamed as we noticed the resemblance. The man in my picture was the man that accompanied the little girl at the gas station. I looked at the date of the photo.

“Richard Crew. 1976-2000”

I realized the situation and told Lyssa to find nails. I went to find wood. I thought about it all as we hurried throughout the house. Somehow, the house was back in the year that my father died. He had been the one at the gas station. Our horrors weren’t over. We quickly nailed any wood we found over the doors and windows. Of course, there wasn’t enough to cover all the windows. So we put newspaper over them and duct taped them to the wall.

When we were finished, we went to the television and sat down on the old, dusty couch. I reached for the T.V. remote and pressed the power button. It didn’t work. I stood up and knelt down in front of the T.V. I found the manual power button under the screen. I pressed it and it started to come to life. I took a step back as the image came onto the screen. We saw the teeth first, then the blank eyes.

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Lyssa, who was already in shock because of the events since we had arrived into the house, screamed in terror. The face of the creature that had gotten into my car laughed at us from the television. I looked at the Lyssa, then at the T.V., then back to Lyssa. She was shaking and her eyes were opened widely. I switched off the T.V. as fast as I could, which wasn’t very fast because it was hard to bring myself to get near that disgusting smile.

When I looked back, Lyssa was running away. She ran up the stairs and I heard a door slam. I ran up to follow her, and I found an upstairs door ajar. I opened it and walked in. I looked around the room and saw a different door shut. It was the door to a closet, and was the one that Lyssa slammed. I opened it and she was curled up inside, crying.

“SHUT THE DOOR! SHUT IT!” she screamed at me. Arguing with her obviously would not be an option right now. I decided that I’d try later. I went downstairs and sat on the couch. I dialed my friend’s number into my cell phone and called it. As I expected my friend didn’t answer. What did was the maniac laugh of that creature that was also on the television that was back on. I knew that I’d turned it off, but it was on. I heard a bang on one of the windows and spun around. Through the spaces between the wood, I saw a long fingered hand scraping down the window. Soon, another hit. After a few minutes, about ten pairs of disgusting hands were pounding on all of the windows. They continued slamming their hands into the window. As I watched helplessly, one pressed its face up to the glass. I saw the eyes, blank and black, like the thing from the basement. I jumped when I heard the phone ring.

I ran to it and picked it up, with some kind of hope that I hadn’t had in a while. A voice spoke to me. It was the voice of my mother.

“Come back…you’re always welcome to come back…” I threw the phone across the room and it broke. I heard the shower in the bathroom turn on. Thinking it was Lyssa, I ran to the bathroom.

I opened the door. The curtain was pulled back and the shower was on, but there was no one inside.

Later that night I heard a scream from one of the bedrooms upstairs, and I boarded it up after checking on Lyssa, who was still crying in her closet. I went back to the couch and sat. I heard knocks on the front door. I hear that a lot now, along with the broken phone ringing and the shower turning on. The creatures outside slam their hands into the window quite often, and I’ve heard two crack. They go on for hours sometimes, only stopping for a few minutes at a time.

It has been three days now, and I can hardly do anything from lack of food. I can get crappy tasting water from the kitchen sometimes, but not often. I haven’t checked on Lyssa in two days. I fear what I might do if she died. So I sit on my couch all day, waiting for the end. One window has broken, and I hear them trying to work each piece of wood out of the wall. It won’t be long now. I sit, and I cry.

I also pray. I pray for my friends and family. And I pray that all of it is some kind of terrible nightmare, but that can’t be true. I swear to God, I wish I never would have pulled into that gas station.

16

Kyle Young

An Ode to a Leaf I’m under a tree with the ground as my seat.

I look to the sky and feel a breeze in the air A leaf then falls toward my feet, But a gush of wind then blows the leaf over my hair.

O beautiful leaf, a bird sings to you, “Farewell!”

And what then, flying leaf, will happen to you?

Only Father Time can tell, But I know something, yes I do!

No matter how high you’ll fly, you’ll crash to the ground.

If you fly over mountains, You’ll come down, down.

No matter if you’re swept in a stream, land in a fountain If you’re out in the sea or still flying Accept the fact that there’s no use trying, But that’s the beauty of it!

You know you’ll touch the goddess Gaia, but that’s not the best bit.

The story of your journey, Oh what a tale!

And I see you, O wondrous leaf, The story of me and all the other people We too will touch the ground and be covered by all, But even we don’t know if we’ll go very high High enough to go beyond the sky Or if we touch mountains, or rivers, or the sea!

But like you, little leaf, our story will end.

Hopefully after we finish our wonderful tale.

Drew Timmons

A Rush of Cold I close my eyes. I can hear them making silent taps on the ground as I lay here. I can also feel the cool sting on my chilled face. After walking all this time with my thick warm layers, I can finally cool down. Nothing and no one dares to disturb the peace and beauty it brings. My knotted hair is everywhere. I cannot understand why anyone wouldn’t love it. If I could, I would lie here forever. But I know that it will not last long. After what seems like hours, I can start to feel the wet get to me. I can also feel the cold set in. As I open my eyes I am not prepared for the brightness. I get up and trudge back to my house to warm up and get some dry clothes, maybe even some hot cocoa.

17 I love the snow!

Meaghan McGraw

Magic to a Kid Magic to a kid at the age of five,

Is seeing the Macy’s Day Parade

With Santa in his Sleigh Magic to a kid at the age of nine,

Is seeing a rainbow

As it stretches across the sky Magic to a kid at the age of sixteen

Is their romantic fairy tale coming true

With more love than they ever knew Magic to a kid at the age of twenty-three

Is finding out who they are supposed to be

In a world filled with so many confusing things Magic to a kid at the age of thirty-five, Is bringing a new kid into this life

Filling them with all the joy they could have Magic to a kid at the age of forty-six

Is exploring the universe

That they never knew could be so big Magic to a kid at the age of sixty-four

Is seeing grandkids

Knocking at their door Magic to a kid at the age of ninety-seven

Is knowing there is a heaven

And not to be scared to leave If you believe in magic, a kid you will always be.

Rachele DeLuca 18

Sleep old man sleep.

Escape to your dreams.

Where you are in the kingdom And you dance on your feet.

Sleep old man sleep.

Forget the street sounds.

Leave behind the man, That kicked you to the ground.

Sleep old man sleep.

Don’t think of the cold.

Pray for those people, Who refused you bread with mold.

Sleep old man sleep.

Think of happy times.

Soon you’ll reach heaven, With your children and your wife.

Sleep old man sleep.

Remember not the pain.

While you sleep in the street In the pouring rain.

Kate Zurovchak

Song of the Protester

Starsong

I quite understand, what’s at stake,

The stars sing a song

But this is one chance I have to take.

Into the endless sky

And for those who’ve suffered at my expense,

They sing of the universe

My death may come as recompense.

As they watch it pass by

But I can’t sit back anymore

Their song is as deep as the ocean

To wait and see just what’s in store;

And as long as stories untold

I have to rise to stop the pain

As warm as the volcano’s heart

Of those who’re killed and mistreated the same!

Who will join to stop the tears

The stars’ song is quiet Yet it pierces the fiercest gale

That’ve flown in rivers through the years?

If you take the time to listen

To end the hunger, cruelty, lies

The stars will spin you a tale

That greet us from the other side?

They will take you on a journey

Let us rise up and protest

To lands beyond time and space

The cruel, vindictive devil’s test

To the places only dreamed of

That is all sin, that is all death,

With trials left to face

Till paradise is all that’s left.

And as bright as the glittering of gold

It takes a special heart

Danielle Lynd

To hear the song’s worth A person with a listening soul Who cares for all on Earth.

Jet

Anna Heineke

He soars through the skies, streaked with ash.

To where the sun and sea meet. To where friends and family are at bay for him to see another day again.

Bridgett Miller 19

Never Before Never before have I made this decision, I think I’m gonna Give you a chance, because my faith is great in you.

Up to the stars my faith stretches.

Never before have I made this decision, I think I’m gonna Let you go free, because my respect is great for you.

Down to the sea my respect reaches.

Never before have I made this decision, I think I’m gonna Run through my mind and see if I want to stay around And if I want to desert you.

Never before have I made this decision, I think I’m gonna Make the choice not to stay long enough to see you Cry at my departure.

Never before have I made this decision, I think I’m gonna Say the words I’ve always wanted to say, the last of which is “goodbye”.

Never before have I made this decision, I think I’m gonna Tell you every fact I have learned about you, as well as a lie, And see if you’re surprised and if I hurt you.

Peter Huffman

Saber Held by my left hand in the face of battle, carrying out my every order. Shielding the bloodshed and sorrow. Carving the face of my opponents, with no hesitations. At the throats of my enemies, stained in blood. Held by my left hand watching bodies burn and crackle on the battlefield of King Arthur.

20

Bridgett Miller

The Unveiling of the Mind Boom. The body hits the mat in a chorus of sound.

The interweaving array of melodies soothes the boy’s spirit.

However the brain marvels at the difference in feeling.

The mind always analyzes and seeks to discover the world.

Inner battles of good and evil roam the wasteland of his mind.

Piercing daggers of thought seek to win over his conscience.

He alone stands in the middle of the six offspring of his parents.

One of birth, two of relation, and three of adoption.

But all united until meeting in the very, very, very, dark void.

The ball flies through the air and is caught.

Or it rolls about and is shot.

Only to be stopped by net or glove.

Knowledge and imagination result from intake of material.

The spiraling and dangerous flames transfix the body and soul.

These in turn take form through the art of depiction.

Life spans a decade and six years.

Nature shows him the true peace and beauty in the world.

From feeling far from peaceful, solitude is then found.

Some wish to cause fires while he wishes to put them out.

And so the upbringing is to learn how to fight fire with fire.

Until the day that one graduates and washes away the damage wrought.

A challenge of any type is met by fierce determination.

The once played melodies that invoke feeling from his mind Turn out to be mistakes that he learned to regret.

Adam Baca 21

Never the Same

Hands and Coffee

The day comes and ends like every other The night darkens and lightens just like the last Everything’s the same when you look really close Just wait and time will tell Time never changes

It sits.

The beating of a heart races at a steady pace Breathing is relieving all the stress held within The beating of a heart races at a steady pace Never catch your breath; you will falter in the end Cuz you make me feel like flying Every time I see you smiling My heart beats faster Just a little bit faster The beating of your drum is settling in me It sets the rhythm for the times we shall meet Never let it down, never let it go You will end up seeing every part of me Justifying the times you have let me go Let me fall to the ground I thought you should just know A heart never beats the same When you beat it the wrong way

Emily Fortin 22

Its body, So perfect Its body.

So dark.

It curves just so, The steam will go It sits, So silent.

It sits, So still.

They're soft, They're quiet They reach, until The fingers arriveThey go in for the kill.

It lifts, It opens, It tilts...

The contents are spilt.

Ben Schmidt

Singularity (12-21-12) I sat atop the heart of the world Watched its history unfurl The escalation of nations Of trials and tribulations I felt inclined to intervene So I drowned and found them The sounds surrounded me And echoed softly The words that shattered the world

Please, just let me in.

Let me see the world you see.

“This boundless lounging Your fruitless founding Will soon become astounding”

Brother

Help me to understand.

Please, stop the crying

Corey Shrader For, I might cry too.

Please, look at me.

Why won’t you try?

Please, show me you’re happy.

For when I see your smile The world stops in that moment And it’s just me and you, For that I might smile too.

23

Taylor Edwards

The Puddle Dance Splish, splash It’s a mad dash To see who can stomp in a puddle And cause the most trouble My shoes are wet, but my spirits are high I’m not even thinking about when I’ll get dry It starts to rain a little more Then it’s a magical downpour He is fast, but I am cunning The rain falls, looking absolutely stunning I feel like I’m in kindergarten all over again Laughing and playing pretend Puddle fight on a Thursday afternoon It all slips away too soon

Taylor Roberts

24

Three Colors Three colors sit on the flag: Red white and blue. The thing we as Americans Salute is diverse. We seem to forget that; We see through the diversity and we try to expel it.

Our own petty fears make us drive the change away, and The more I see it the more I see these three colors fade.

To most now, only one color remains.

They can’t handle the change.

To them, one color is Okay.

But two still remain. What to do with these?

No one knows.

But they salute the flag, proud as a solution isn’t found.

Three colors sit on the flag: Red white and blue.

They blend in perfect harmony.

Isn’t it time we do the same?

Matt Gabbard

Success!

Success is hard to measure One man’s trash is another man’s treasure All success standards conflict Good or bad, it’s hard to predict When the rules are a mystery Ever-changing, all throughout history One man is hailed as great Another is riddled with hate

Michael Fehn 25

The Girl Who Never Cries You smile hard, you smile well But there’s the fear behind the shell You smile because you’ll never tell The truth; your life’s a poignant hell Bruises, scratches, you have your lies To answer all the unasked whys The tears will not break past your eyes Cause you’re the girl who never cries.

Megan Simmons

The Voice I have a voice, I promise you I try so hard to show it But wouldn’t you know it; it won’t come out A peep; that’s all you’ll hear from me I have a voice I invite you to see You say, “Molly, Be loud and proud, confident too” Those are things I could never do You push and prod My feelings deep I wish to run away, to weep I command my voice to be alive, to sing Yet what does it bring?

A meek, small sound That barely makes a pound Against these concrete walls It’s trapped in a cell deep inside And it wishes to hide no more My heart, it yearns to sing; to dance Of love, of pain, and romance For I wish you could see what I see And know of this voice deep within me Maybe one day your words will work And break the barrier of silence that encloses me Do not brand me as a mute For it will break free The voice that dwells deep inside me

Molly Kidwell 26

A child stands alone

Kimono

A child stands alone Colorful rays of light, twirling, spinning and dancing in the Underneath the sky laughter of the night.

He hears a soft moan And a piercing cry.

Bridgett Miller From across the street She is thrown down A child of thirteen The dirt makes her brown.

She gets up slowly And hangs her head Because she is lowly She didn’t get the bread.

Kate Zurovchak

It’s Funny

it’s funny how hello is always accompanied with goodbye it’s funny how good memories can start to make you cry it’s funny how forever never seems to last it’s funny how much you’d lose if you forgot about your past it’s funny how “friends” can just leave when you are down it’s funny how when you need someone they never are around it’s funny how people change and think they’re so much better it’s funny how many lies are packed into one “love letter” it’s funny how one night can contain so much regret it’s funny how you can forgive but not forget it’s funny how ironic life turns out to be but the funniest part of all, is none of that’s funny to me.

Lauren Lamping 27

Memory We are very young, we are so alive— We can go anywhere, on our sunlit summer drive.

It is twisted and bent, but it feels like we’re free— As we retell our stories, I’m thankful I’m me, We walk in the shade of woven tree branches, And we kick at the gravel as we talk of dreams and future chances.

We are very young, we are so alive— We can go anywhere, on our sunlit summer drive.

You had your worries; I had not a care, From the many long months, we had passed elsewhere.

Then the sun rose high, and the light twinkled on glass, That may have broken from a bottle, sometime in the past.

We are very young, we are so alive— We can go anywhere, on our sunlit summer drive.

Some days we are tired, some days we are merry; Sometimes we might dream of escape by plane or ferry.

But we spent all our days without taking much note, And now again I remember, reading over the poem I wrote.

Nothing lasts forever; it could never be so, But nothing ever needs to if we keep those memories close.

Lauren Scott

28

Ode to the Aquarium Lorikeets They watch you from above With bright little eyes More than anything they love To take you by surprise With colorful little feathers, So pleasing to the eye These birds are much smarter Than you might surmise Dropping from the air, They’ll climb all over you But you must be very sure To bring along some food These tiny little things Make quite a massive sound It’ll cause your ears to ring Because it is so loud The Lorikeets are so much fun They always make me smile They make the price of admission All the more worthwhile

Ellen Uhl

O Angel O Angel O Angel, O Angel who fell from the Sky Whose beauty can be seen by even a blind eye.

Thy face made of pure gold, Thy face so sweet.

To see you, So Bold.

To talk with you, what a treat.

Though I see you and talk with you, I abuse thy sacred gift.

If you knew of the things I do, I fear that between us, there may be a drift.

O Shining Angel! who fell from the Sky. You may never know how I feel for you, But this feeling that I feel for you will never die.

29

Drew Timmons

What I Love Most Fireflies pass my window, flying, flaunting, and flirting.

They beg me to go outside and feel the warm night.

I move quickly and quietly out the front door to greet them.

Oh how I have longed for the warm and wet summer nights when the grass is cool and the

pavement hot.

I love to run in the tepid night with the wind whipping my hair, clothes, and thoughts.

Stars glow in the obscure sky.

There is nothing to fear, and I only hear the soft croaks of the frogs in the distant tree line.

I can be loose and free, spreading my wings out I long for the fireflies to take them with me.

The days are hot, long, and filled with excitement.

In the middle of summer, softball is in full swing.

There is a rush and thrill when I enter the field, ready to play.

The blinding sun is beating down on my back causing sweat to drip down my face.

Fans are cheering, coaches screaming and players yelling; it’s where I am meant to be.

CRACK! No bat could make a sound like that one.

It is the sky. Fresh raindrops descend from the somber clouds of a mean storm.

BOOM! Thunder roars through me and sends people running.

Hidden in my car, I peak outside to watch lightning break through the sky as water streams

down the window.

The storm is not long lasting and it leaves as soon as it came.

Great warmth comes to me as the clouds disperse.

Humid summer air fills my lungs and I can only grin.

30

Meaghan McGraw

A Song of Myself

Surrounded with love, joy, and peace is my life A cycle that is in perpetual motion. Eternal.

Open fields are where my dreams soar, high and free My family and friends are with me here, making me smile My spirit is jubilant, almost every nook and every cranny But the parts of me behind the veil, are the ones that scare me so Shhh! Don't tell them where it's hidden, look both ways before you enter The deepest chamber protects the treasure, of a very mortal heart The hurt, sorrow, regret, and tears have been piling up for Oh! So long A crack or two marks the place where I have been hurt the most Buried beneath these cracks, lies the secret of the secrets Yet, I do not carry this burden alone, my Father, my Protector is with me As my eyes start to droop, as my head hits the pillow with a soft thud, If I strain my ears, I can hear the brush of an angel's wings I close my eyes, and start to the door of wonderful things, when I feel something The lightest, softest brush of rose petal lips upon my eyes, telling me goodnight I wake in the mornings fresh and new, yesterday was yesterday; Today is today I walk with the clouds, I soar with my dreams; I run with the wind, I cry with the rain I can burn like the fire, but glide like the ice Welcome to, what I call, my life

Kate Zurovchak To be what I would like to be Makes it harder Or as it seems To fit in or out To live without This strange person I call me But who is she One who lives with so much hate Is it deserved Is it too late To save myself from becoming she She whom I do not want to be But who is she - is she me

Who am I Why do I not recognize This person that I have become Afraid to speak or feel or run I feel bad for what I’ve done But is it worth it to be the one The one who will go no place She’ll sleep alone and hide her face Is this me Can it be I hate the she that now is me 31

Jenna Zicka

The Sand Castle A person must have a likeness of summer To realize the beauty of summer Of the broadleaf trees soaking up the UV rays The oaks heavy with the producing of acorns To see the maples manufacture their syrup The sycamores’ leaves rough on the highest branches The July sun beating down on the vacationers Seeking relief in lakes, creeks, pools, and rivers Quickly cooling them off Splashing diving and swimming Relaxing in the refreshing liquid The heat baking the leaves of the trees Till the next rainfall replenishes their reserves The rain comes seldom but when it does it pours Black clouds full of water roll across the land Flashing with lightning cracking with thunder Hurricane winds run into anything trying to hold its ground As quickly as comes it blows on Listening in the summer months everything is alive Busy with life

Tony Losekamp 32

There once was a beautiful young woman named Sabrina and a very handsome young man named Michael. Sabrina was 5’6, with big, beautiful, bright blue eyes and long blond hair. She was very optimistic and always happy and up-beat. Michael was 6’1, with shaggy blond hair and bright green eyes. He, too, was always very positive. He was strong, physically and emotionally, and was always the kind of guy that went out of his way to help others.

Now, Michael and Sabrina first met when they were two years old, and were instant best friends. Fifteen short years later, when they were both 17, they were dating. In fact, their 3 year anniversary is May 16. As you could imagine, they were closer with each other than anyone else in the entire world. They told each other everything, and could get through anything together.

However, one day, when Michael and Sabrina were walking home from the movies, Michael didn’t seem like himself. He walked her to her front door, kissed her more passionately than ever before and said, “Sabrina, you’re my life, my world, and my everything. I love you more than life itself, and more than any mere words could even ever hope to come close to describing.”

She replied, “I know, Michael. I feel the same way.” Then she kissed his cheek sweetly and said, “I love you so much.”

He smiled sweetly and said, “I love you too, my sweet angel.” Then he proceeded to say, “I need you to do me a favor, okay?”

Sabrina smiled and said, “Sure, sweetie. Anything for you.”

He said, “Good. I need you to go 24 hours, 1 whole day, without me. No talking, calling, or even texting me. And if you can do this, I’ll love you so much more than I ever have before. Do you think you can do this for me, baby?”

She smiled again and said, “You bet I can. I’ll do anything for you.” And with that, they kissed one last time and said their goodbyes.

Twenty-four hours went by slowly. Sabrina, walking over to Michael’s house later that day,

saw dozens of cars outside. She simply thought to herself “oh, it must be a party” and walked inside.

As soon as she opened the door, just barely cracking it, she heard uncontrollable sobbing and crying.

When she fully opened the door and walked inside, she saw many of Michael’s relatives all wearing black and gathered in one spot, in the middle of the living room. Frantically, she ran up to see the thing which had been captivating everyone in such a depressing manner.

There, in the middle of the room, she saw Michael lying in a casket, with a note taped to the side of it saying “Sabrina.” Forcing back her tears, she grabbed the note with her trembling hands and read: “You did it, my sweet baby girl. Now go, every day, just like it.” What Michael hadn’t told her was that he was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer 6 months ago and was only given a few more months to live. He knew his time was near, and he didn’t know how to say goodbye to his true love.

So he made her a bet, to see if she could go 24 hours without him, to show how strong she really was.

He silently passed away the night before, shortly after writing that letter. And as Sabrina looked at the bottom of the letter, she saw tear-stained ink, the words she’ll never forget: “I love you more than life itself, Sabrina. This is not a goodbye, but simply a sweet farewell for now. Have a wonderful life without me, like I know you can. I’ll wait for you on the other side, so please, take your time getting here.

Forever and always, Your One True Love, - Michael”

Connor P. Gerome

The Truth of the Matter is…

Every day feels like the last, I do the same things over again.

Friends by my side, family in my heart, But something missing all the same.

I was known as the quiet one, This was my stereotype.

But no one ever asked me, Would you change it if you could?

Sometimes I see myself throwing down my guard.

It’s quite scary sometimes but I learned how to fall.

I wish I could be me, every single moment, But the past has proven, times are tougher than ever.

I’m stuck in past, still holding on to that love.

Every person that comes never truly leaves my heart.

They say you get over it, just takes a little time.

The one part that needs to go is the past hanging on.

Emily Fortin

Earthsong I’m dancing to a tune only I can hear It’s a song on the wind; it’s a voice in my ear It’s telling me to dance to my heart’s content, And to follow my heartsong wherever I’m sent Cuz it’s the song of the earth, it’s a wind in the trees It’s the sound of the waves on the open seas It’s the whisper of grass and the silence of night It’s the warmth of the fire; it’s the brightness of light The bubble of streams and the eagle’s cry The loudest scream and the softest sigh It’s the song of the Earth so steady and true If you listen closely maybe you’ll hear it, too.

Anna Heineke 34

Soldiers You stand strong in what we believe in.

You hold the almighty fist against our foulest enemies.

Shaking the earth on which they stand.

You, the heroes of this nation, stand on the brink of our faith. Holding in your hearts the Nation’s freedom and glory.

Staring in the face of our enemies’ lines.

Standing firm with heads held high, shadows that stretch across all nations.

Here, we stand strong in what you believe in.

Bridgett Miller

The Top of the Hill I see you walking up that giant hill with that cross on your back.

I see you trembling up the hill, the hill that is steep and covered with jagged rocks.

As you are walking up the hill, I see the tears on your face from the weight of your cross.

I see the blood and sweat fall off of you and flow down the hill, You haven’t fallen down yet, but you’re out of breath.

You keep moving forward to the top of the hill.

Let me help you, please.

Let me help you carry your cross.

Let me help you with your burden.

And when I help you get to the top, I ask for one thing in return…

That you will help me with my own cross on my own hill.

I don’t want you to carry it for me, but support me and keep me going.

And when I join you at the top of the hill, Let us walk in Paradise.

Let us walk carefree in Paradise with no crosses or burdens.

35

Drew Timmons

The Changeling The searing pain in my head trumpeted the dawn. I grumbled something unintelligible and reached for the lamp. One, two, three, nothing. Turning the knob had no effect. Sheets clinging tight to my feet, I cast off my linen cocoon and I ventured out into the dark, yet known catacombs of my home to scour my closet for something presentable to wear. My suit was ill fitting and no doubt shrunk, Ruth’s fault. I supposed I would find it in my heart to forgive her. One glove. Two gloves. Scarf unnecessary. Shoes too small. Ruth. I steeled myself for the crisp morning air.

Dawn had summoned her followers, and they were chanting in the street, no doubt the chant of production. The men marched with rhythm along poorly built sidewalks, top hats and all, with their briefcases armed and ready. Sleepy eyed vendors placed their wares precariously behind murky glass, masking the corruption of the goods. Servants rushed from shop to shop, their masters’ rage constantly at their backs, peering once then scurrying onward. Like cockroaches, scuffling with panic when they’ve been discovered. The mastiffs roared in approval. The butcher’s hogs snorted in delight as they shuffled by. Inside their brick fortresses, wives and children dreamed of prosperity: the great dream that had eluded our town once again.

I passed a servant, who looked at me with cautious courage. I paused in my march and imitated my best condescending look. He held his ground. Irked, I continued my walk, struggling to be undeterred by his nerve. The rolling pastures poked their heads over the square next, grinning with that inspiring look of eagerness that called so many men to the plough. The field hands were already in tune. One, two. Three, four. Within the basest part of my being, I envied them. They were free of thought, free of responsibility and care. Most of all, they were blessed with the life of simplicity. I remembered my juvenile wishes to be like them and smiled.

Hasty. The collie ceased its cry and looked towards the sky. The cattle cut the air with an ominous call.

As I paced by, staring, the field hands stared back at me. Simultaneously, their work ceased. The eyes met mine, but did not echo the confusion I had. Their eyes reeked of humor, like a spontaneous practical joke.

I approached the fence line and began to chastise them to mind their work alone, but the words were guttural and strange to me as if I were just using my lips. I backed away haltingly, embarrassed and unable to maintain the field hands’ gaze. Finally, the largest specimen of the line let out a hearty chuckle. Its contagion spread throughout the line, and they soon were all laughing with delight. The foreman turned at the sight of the commotion. His eyes seemed to wander right by me, unimpressed. By the time I stormed off, their work had begun again.

By the time I was over the hill, those barbarians’ chuckles had left my consciousness. I climbed up the gauntlet to Doctor Bramson’s. One, two, three, four. I swung the door open wide and greeted Marianne at her rocking chair. My lips spread wide to a childish grin, and I called out to her almost silently, like a bedtime whisper to a newborn. She ignored me and continued her sewing. Hurt, I stepped close to her with more courage, trying to get her to remember me: to remember the years of cautious romance that we had fostered. The nights spent under the oak tree. The romantic whispers we carelessly released. I brushed her shoulder and she screamed. It pierced through everything.

Bewildered I took her by the arm. She struck it away and began to leave. I tried again. The same result.

Bramson threw the door wide to see the commotion. When he saw me, his nostrils flared in anger, their white hairs curling like smoke. Amidst violent swears he marched toward me. I opened my mouth to explain, but he swung and knocked the thoughts right from my mouth. Pain erupted in my jaw and anger took the reins. He came again, but I was ready and decked him to the floor. I called to him and touched his face but I could immediately tell. He was out cold, probably for an hour or so. Marianne was witness to all this tragedy and was frozen still. I approached her, slowly, but she came to life and let loose her banshee call. My lips attempted to explain, but the same sounds came out so I roared. Anger had not let go of the reins and I threw the door open wide, passion beating at my breast.

36

The noises must have attracted the rest of the staff, who were scouring from behind the barn. More men appeared, but my anger contorted their features making them faceless. Vultures preying on commotion.

The mob had aggregated and was full of sound and fury until I exited the office. Silence rushed through the crowd. I wiped the blood from my lips and descended. One, two. Three, four. A flint eyed powerfully built young man, a regular arbiter of doom, emerged from the pack. Our eyes met. He adjusted his hat and spat, long and brown. My hands were trembling. I searched the endless sea of faces for compassion, some inkling of satisfaction that could spare me. No such luck. My pulse was racing. The mastiffs were gurgling now, blood in their throats. The arbiter reached into his coat. More men stepped forward, each more recognizable than the first. I wiped the sweat from my brow and stepped to the side. They followed. I backed up into the railing. The man’s hand had almost emerged. I saw the gleam of steel and took off.

The crowd didn’t let up. I heard their footsteps and the violence in them at my heels. A gunshot crowed from the distance. It didn’t stop me. I kept my feet constantly moving, never looking back. One two three four one two three four. The town was emerging in the sunlight now. My hat fell from my head. The field hands grimaced at the commotion and ran too. We were all running now. My heart was surging in my throat, trying to break free. More gunshots. Sounds of fury. One bullet cascaded by me, nearly taking my head. Go ahead, take it. It didn’t matter now. My mind had no control over my body; it could function without it. The mastiffs slobbered in zeal. The town saw the crowd and raised their eyebrows in confusion. Women screamed.

The hogs were laughing hysterically, mocking me. My house key was in my fingertips and I was reaching for the knob. Sweaty palms held me back. Heart racing. Onetwothreefouronetwothreefouronetwothreefour.

Home. Cold comfort. The door was doing its best, trying to survive the pounding calls of the army outside. It screamed to me. Hounds of hell, thirsting for blood. My eyes searched the house, looking for defense, offense. I found none. The door was breaking now, the axes tearing through. What had I done? I had done nothing. Nothing. Nothing. Nothing Nothing Nothing. I climbed the stairs. Nothing Nothing Nothing. The door swung free, the men pouring through. Locusts in the hovels of Egypt. The Angel of Death had passed over and I had no lamb’s blood. Onetwothreefour. Nothing Nothing. I burst into my room, ridding my hands of the gloves.

They were claustrophobic. I was choking. Onetwo. Threefour. They came up the stairs. Onetwo-threefour Onetwo-threefour. Rabid cries from the mastiffs outside. Onetwo-threefour. The light poured into my room and shone on my hands. I looked at them. Then I gazed into the mirror. I saw everything.

Brendan Sullivan

Happiness Happiness feels like sunshine bursting out of you from within Happiness sounds like your favorite song Happiness tastes sweet and rich Happiness looks like the smiles on your friends’ faces Happiness smells like warm cinnamon rolls baking when you get out of bed

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Megan Lundrigan

Inner Beauty Insecure, So unsure In her skin…

The fight within.

Beauty seems to be A play on reality, Just a reflection Staring back, no connection.

When was beauty Determined by what we see?

She fought and she fought But, it only left her distraught, To act and pretend She was like other girls, but in the end She discovered Her true colors.

Here I am, This is me, And I’m stronger than you ever thought I’d be.

No longer does she shuffle her feet Or avert her eyes at every meet and greet.

She is not ashamed And has even proclaimed Openly that she is beautiful, Face and soul.

And imperfections aside, No longer does she feel the need to hide.

Here I am, This is me, And I’m stronger than you ever thought I’d be.

On Eagle’s Wings We go through life on eagle’s wings, straight and strong and true We soar with the wind on eagle’s wings through the sky so blue.

Sometimes the breeze is at our backs and guides us through the air, Other times the storm gusts lead us elsewhere.

Sometimes the sky is clear and flight comes with ease Other days clouds and mist make us fall upon our knees.

But though the path is hard and long, and there are trials at every turn Fears and hopes, dreams and desires will cause our souls to burn.

We go through life on eagle’s wings, straight and strong and true We flap our wings and take to flight into the sky so blue.

Anna Heineke 38

Taylor Roberts

What Do You See? When you look at me, what do you see?

Do you see the girl who is smart?

Do you see the cheerleader who can do flips?

Do you see the smiley girl with a kind heart?

I’ve been told I always look happy.

Is that what you see when you glance my way?

That girl who’s so happy, her life must be awesome.

If I told you that was fake, what would you say?

I don’t know what to feel about these assumptions.

I guess I should be pleased. I fooled you!

I made you think I’m a girl without struggle and pain.

Isn’t that what I’ve been trying to do?

But sometimes I feel hollow inside.

I feel like every day is a lie.

These people don’t know my fears and hurt.

And they’ve never seen me cry.

I guess everyone had a part of them They hope that the world won’t see.

Just remember I’m not just the girl You see when you look at me.

Sarah Ruwe Waiting for You Rushing, racing inside you Can’t help but feel those pulling affections Feels like the world’s going to collapse If you don’t have them beside you

How can I fight through this separation?

You aren’t even here Swelling up like an infection Hurting and seeing You can’t be here now Dreams worth the dreaming That’s why I’m still waiting For you to come around.

Fallen and falling Deeper and deeper Breathing… or trying Nothing escaping 39

Emily Fortin

Brother We found each other in the dark, Is it wrong for me to say you looked beautiful in your passing?

Do you remember that night we searched til dawn?

When our eyes met I felt a spark, I saw your wings spreading, ready to fly.

Why in my head, the memory of that day I keep You would be my brother from that point on. surpassing?

You lit up my day with a wag of your tail, I know it’s cause, to my brother, I’m not ready to say goodbye.

Although I always wished we could actually talk.

You would rarely even let out the simplest wail, So live in my heart and rest on my shoulder, Unless you heard the rattling chain and were ready to walk.

For I need your guidance when I feel alone.

Warm me up when I’m feeling colder, Through my body, let your love be shown.

On the cold, slick wood we would often sit and play, Twisting and turning, rolling and embracing.

I can still hear your breathing when I’m surTo the time flying by, no attention we would pay, It could only be happiness in the air which I was rounded by silence, tasting.

I can still see your face when I’ve closed my eyes.

I continued to grow more and more each day, Every day, of this, I try to make sense, The only answer is that, with you, my heart But being with you was all that really mattered to me. still lies.

I watched as you turned from black to grey, On Earth I’ll be waiting, for the day I see you Oh how beautiful, your life, it was to see. again, My fear is gone of what death will bring.

Soon, time started taking my tomorrows, Be my guardian, but don’t tell me when, And turned them into yesterdays.

I looked and searched for something I could borrow, Cause on that morning, together we will sing.

To slow down time, there must be a way.

So every night I will come and sit by your tree, To have a conversation just between you and me.

As I have come to find out, About the days when we will run wild and free, Time cannot and will not be stopped.

Through the forests and meadows, and over the Even if we fret, toil, and stomp all about, mountains, together we will be.

Losing the ones we love is simply a prophecy that cannot be topped.

Dillon Stanfield

Moonlight

Response to “Acquainted With the Night”

by Robert Frost

We choose to meet in the dead of night Hiding from the day When owls and bats begin their flight It’s the only way.

I am a girl who looks to the sky.

The heavens smile while I wonder “Why?” There streams a palette of beautiful light.

No one else would understand Not even those most dear Being discovered, hand in hand Is my greatest fear

I feel that everything is simply right.

The day breaks with a summery glow.

I see that light promises a chance to grow.

And as the dew shimmers on an emerald vine, I worry for you throughout the day, I call the sunlight a dear friend of mine.

As I often do And try to figure out a way To sneak out and be with you.

The rain comes with a gentle drop.

I know that the sky’s tears will not stop.

But I am afraid that sometime soon We will end up getting seen Kissing underneath the moon Or swimming in the sea

For a moment the liquid hangs: suspended.

And then it hits, another sorrow upended.

The night rolls in, steady as a dream, Suddenly everything is not quite what it seems.

The lights are dim at the end of the street.

The darkness is a friend I am happy to meet.

I am a girl who looks to the sky.

The heavens sparkle while I wonder “Why?’ My acquaintance with all hours I plan to keep, As I slowly drift into the land of sleep.

Lauren Scott

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But for now, I do not care I abandon all my fright I choose to live in the here and now Knowing you’ll be waiting tomorrow night

Ellen Uhl

Is You So you’re lying on the floor again Crying all alone Life kept throwing punches And hit the final blow The straw that broke the camel’s back Finally broke your own And you wish you could fly away But you don’t know where you’d go I know the pain I’ve been there too I know exactly what you’re going through Life will throw punches And you can’t fight back Just turn your cheek kindly And accept the fact That no one can tell you what to do And the only one who’ll make you

feel better Is you You didn’t ask for this And you don’t know why God chose this time To make his angel cry Cause you’ve tried strong But you can’t lie It ain’t easy Cause you barely make it by alive

I know the pain I’ve been there too I know exactly what you’re going through Life will throw punches And you can’t fight back Just turn your cheek kindly And accept the fact That no one can tell you what to do And the only one who’ll make you feel better Is you Just hold up your head And know you’ll make it through Because no one can stop you Sometimes tears aren’t so bad They help you figure out why the world

makes you mad I know the pain I’ve been there too I know exactly what you’re going through Life will throw punches And you can’t fight back Just turn your cheek kindly And accept the fact That no one can tell you what to do And the only one who’ll make you feel better Is you

Scott Frenzel 42

Annabel Lee’s Reply (A Response to “Annabel Lee” by Edgar Allan Poe) It was many and many a year ago,

The wind came along and buried me

In a kingdom by the sea,

In the kingdom by the sea;

And a man lived there whom you may know—

My love searched everywhere, high and low,

My name is Annabel Lee;

But could not find Annabel Lee.

And I lived there with no other thought

And my heart yearned for his return

Than to love and to love like he.

As his heart ached for me.

There was a depth and breadth I’ll never know

By dawn my face was burned and scorched;

In that kingdom by the sea;

By dusk I was set free

The horizon stretched farther than could be shown By light of day, I went away

To a girl called Annabel Lee.

Till only by stars could I see.

So he dreamed a dream that could never be

And my phantom haunted the ghosts of the shores

Of escaping away with me.

Of the kingdom by the sea.

And we slept the nights together,

Until by chance and happenstance

In the kingdom by the sea,

That my love should return to me.

Unbeknownst to those who were

He came upon my forsaken corpse

To be watching Annabel Lee.

In the kingdom by the sea.

But the jealous winds struck up a deal

But my love lay down beside

To steal him away from me.

and he gave his life to me.

They bore me away and they shut me away

He died in the arms and frozen touch

From the kingdom by the sea,

of beloved Annabel Lee.

So never again could my love see

So he lies by the side of his darling bride

His beautiful Annabel Lee.

In her tomb by the sea

But our love was stronger, mine for him

No longer fearing of the day

And especially his for me.

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When together we could not be.

Danielle Lynd

The Weight

There’s this weight on my shoulders, Connects to my spine.

It weighs me down and thickens my mind.

This weight is a burden, One not to be shared.

Something for which you could never prepare.

This weight’s always with me.

It never strays far.

The heavier it gets, the more it will scar.

This weight needs to leave me.

It’s growing so old, but it’s likely not to do what it’s told.

I’m tired, I’m weary, I’m weak in the knees.

I might just blow over at the smallest, little breeze.

I’m annoyed with this rhyming and so sick of smiling, So it’s time to be blunt and straightforward.

So listen up good, my dear.

It’s time for you to stop living in fear!

Stop letting this weight push you and drag you down, Life should be the other way around!

So pick yourself up and Dust yourself off.

It’s time to show this weight exactly who’s boss.

Wanna know why?

I’ll tell you the truth…

Because it is time for you to start living for you.

Kerry Morrow 44

Spring Rains

drip drop drip drop . . .

This is what it sounds like in the new born spring.

In March, April, May, and June Showers make all the blossoms grow in the beauty of spring.

But all kinds of colorful butterflies go flutter around in the roses, irises, violets, and petunias in the gardens.

But nothing sounds or smells as sweet as the spring rain. drip drop drip drop . . .

Bridgett Miller

Credo

I believe in giggles, snacks, and naps.

I believe the presents under the tree are from Santa.

I believe that playing outside all day long can be the best day ever.

I believe cartoon characters are real and I will meet them one day.

But, I do not believe I will ever be an adult.

I believe my four imaginary best friends can go everywhere with me and no one will judge me.

I believe in believing everything my mom says and believing it for years never thinking twice about it.

I believe my blanket is my best friend and dragging it around everywhere to the point where it can’t even be used.

I believe there is nothing to worry about, but playing with friends tomorrow.

And I believe we are all a kid at heart.

Allison Kamphaus

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If I Die If I die, take my bones away But let me sing to the men who’ve come to stay Let them hear what I have to say Then let them on their way

Because we both know that you have been so lost I am trying to fix it no matter the cost With me gone it’s hard to find your dreams So at the time it’s as it seems

If I die, listen to the dark Try and figure out why here is in the heart And then change what you call the start And then from my bones you’ll part

If I live, I’ll never let you drown By the river, we will always get around I’ll hold you high, Put you on your cloud Tell you I love you, then come down

When I die, promise you won’t forget Take my song into the house where you may live Sing it softly, let it dance in your head Let it dance until you’re dead

But I’m not, sure that I’m alive These rusty bones just get sore when I try So I’ll sit, but never wave goodbye You sure you can’t help me try?

Because we both know that you have been so lost And I am trying to fix it no matter the cost With me gone it’s hard to find your dreams So at the time we’re as it seems

Because we both know that you have been so lost I am trying to fix you no matter the cost With me gone it’s hard to find your dreams So at the time we’re as it seems

If I die, tell Mom that I’m gone Tell her she wrote all the verses to my songs And then wait for her to blame my wrongs But then we’ll be more strong

But you have shown me that I’ve been so lost And I have failed to fix it no matter the cost But that’s the beauty of love because it fuels your

dreams So at the time we’re not as it seems

When I die, let candles guide you home Go and find all the places we have known Take pictures, place them on my bones And then bury them in the snow

Lightning Strike of light come from the darkened sky, Pouring down frigid rain, into the deadless night.

Nothing to see or hear, but the Flashing of light, echoing through the night.

This is the coming of the knight.

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Bridgett Miller

Matt Gabbard

Credo

I believe in the idea that freedom isn’t free, The struggles we go through make us stronger people, The need for reward for good work, The need for faith The necessary feelings of content, Happiness, stress, and despair.

But the idea that hard work rarely pays off drives me mad.

I believe in faith in people to be good, I believe in miracles, I believe the cake is not a lie, My investments are safe with Bernie, goofiness equals happiness And I believe in the sad truth that You don’t know what you got till it’s gone.

Adam Zalewski

Love is like snow

The snow comes and I fell in love with it at the first glance. With mystery and originality it drew me in; after a while I became enchanted. As I heard the final bell, I knew now that it wasn’t just a dream, but reality.

Stunned, I quickly exit school knowing I will see my love soon.

When I was walking home from school, I noticed that the snow gives me the peace within myself that I have been longing for. I feel whole again for the first time in a long time. Everything that has ever gone wrong melts away when I see the new snowfall. Nothing in the world could tear me down; it just gets better and better.

After a while, the snow doesn’t look as beautiful. So seeing the snow is just not as great as in the beginning.

I miss the first snowfall dearly. But I dread the climbing temperatures. And just as it started, it is over. The snow is gone and I have to move on. Spring is here, no matter how I want to hang onto winter. But as the seasons change, I will always love the snow. I hope that just maybe my love will come back.

47 Meaghan McGraw

Emmanuel

White lace blankets the shepherds’ fields that look down upon a small village below. Filled with rejoicing and laughter. An old barn sits painted with the holy of holies. Falling lights dance around the darkened night. Only one star shines the brightest, on the forehead of a child, leading three major kingdoms to their knees. Bearing three gifts to the child. A child that lies in a manger, unknowing he is the hands of God. Sent to be our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Bridgett Miller

Pressure of Perfection See yourself in the reflection Judge yourself in a house of mirrors Walk along the well-worn hallways Twisting, turning, curving In the mass of dying humanity Mouths open in piercing shrieks Painted faces flaking and running down Push each other, shove each other Place your voice’s brick in the wall of sound One more puppet in a world of strings One more lie in a world of secrets One more sound in a world of meaningless words One more human among seven billion 48

Samantha Scheidler

What People See

When people see me, what do they think?

They see a cheerleader, A girl who loves to laugh with her friends, An actor and a singer, Blonde hair and blue eyes, A smile of white teeth, A girl who loves to talk Someone that will always be nice, even when others are being mean, And a person who is not perfect.

But, that is not all of me.

There is so much more than meets the eye.

Behind the cheerleader, there is a happy girl who wants to make others feel

appreciated and important.

Behind the laughs, there is a girl who loves to have fun but also hurts at times.

Behind the singer and actor, there is a girl who does her best at everything, even

if she doesn’t always succeed.

Behind the blonde hair and blue eyes, there is a girl who cares about her opinion

and though she doesn’t want to, also cares what others think.

Behind that smile, there is happiness, but also hurt and sorrow.

Behind the talking, there is a girl who just wants others to like her and who longs

to fit in.

Behind being nice, there is someone that genuinely cares when others are hurt

and will do anything to help them in any way she can.

And lastly, behind her many imperfections, there is a girl who is just happy to be

herself and wouldn’t want to be another person in this whole world.

What will you see?

Kaitlyn Schaefer 49

Sunshine Every once in a while, I look back Then I stop and give myself a smack.

“Stop doing this, you’re only causing yourself pain, Sometimes you have to learn how to live with a little rain.”

I say this constantly always reminding myself, I have to open a new book on the shelf.

I have to start over, and soar with my dreams.

I have to forget about you and start over clean.

There will be times when hurt gets the best of me, But I believe that it is not my destiny.

So now I live with, yes, a little rain, But I learned that sunshine can overcome pain.

Kate Zurovchak

untitled Ignorance is bliss, how much do you want to know?

If you knew me at all, you’d know it’s all a show From a distance you see the smile down the hall, But if you looked in my eyes, you’d see I felt so small, so close to fall Who would hold me up?

If you ever want to know, I’m always right here but the voice has been kept quiet, out of some sort of fear Everyone gets a feeling that they’ve been lost and can’t be found But somehow, by some miracle, it’s been all turned around This story may be frail, or average at best, but I never claimed to be a poet, this is just my life Now it’s time to wait, to see, to hope, for the rest.

Ignorance is bliss, is that all you want to know?

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Matthew Heyl

All the time worlds are dying And worlds are crumbling Ever changing Never staying With errors and mistakes They were rapidly built Built with little effort The foundations are the problem The foundations ignored The foundations bypassed Corner stones forgotten Corner stones set aside Never to be used Never to be thought of again All the time new worlds are growing Reaching for the sky But many still crumble And fall to the earth Not many still stand Those that do Totter in the breeze Yet again crumble to the earth The foundations are the problem The foundations ignored The foundations bypassed Corner stones forgotten Corner stones set aside Never to be used Never to be thought of again

The new world arises Gleaming in the sun Built slowly with care Challenges overcome Standing strong against the wind The foundation is the key The foundation is where it’s at The foundation is the rock Corner stones in place Corner stones planned with care Ever staying Never changing This new world Is not real Is it in the future That is the choice The foundation is the key The foundation is where it’s at The foundation needs to be the rock Corner stones need to in place Corner stones need to be planned with care In order to support this new world Tony Losekamp

Why Do You Take Pictures?

Why do you take pictures of the things at an art gallery or at a museum?

Why do you take pictures of a statue or a landmark or a memorial?

They’ll all be there tomorrow.

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Ben Schmidt

in the star-lit night I only see one the one worth the fight the fight I’ve always won

Reality Meets Actuality although just my dream you know I’m here my heart has a scheme that you can’t see or hear

the stars will align to make the perfect shape to make the perfect line my eyes are fixed, they can’t escape.

the plan is simple you’ll notice me then not other people your mind will be in perfect zen

You form the best image You make the best rhyme Our hearts have a scrimmage till both make love’s perfect chime

Hi, this is who I am nothing will be changed there is no scam cause this is how my heart is arranged

to the rhythm of the beat to the pounding on my chest with the stars shining off the street I see you and you only as the best

with the night time sky where all is at peace where we won’t die where dreams have to cease

You reach for me and I for you my face filled with glee I see it on your face too

where the reality will meet the actuality Kyle Grogan

The wind whispers in her ear, “What is it that brings you here?”

The only thing that she can say, “I just need to get away…”

Kerry Morrow 52

Credo

I believe in the more I learn the less I know, the importance of friendship, if you don’t try, you’ll never know, never take anything for granted, look at both sides of everything, But the belief that someone “can’t” do something because it’s too hard is ridiculous!

I believe that if you set your mind to something you can accomplish it, I believe that if you be the best you can be, it’s what’s best, I believe that behind every closed door a new opportunity opens up, I believe in following your faith, following your dreams, and loving yourself as you love others around you, And I believe life is too short, and you should always live your life to the fullest with no regrets, always learning from your mistakes.

Kaitlin Kenney

gentling you head-beckoning soft-smiling deceiver. you would have my heart again (to break) and i will not give it. at the risk of sounding cynical, you don’t get to care now you half-smiling soft-watching deceiver not even for the kindness, the tenderness of your eyes today (across the room, and gentling into mine) Maddie Weir 53

Response to Of Mice and Men Friendships come and friendships go.

They are much like the flowers that grow.

George and Lennie, Close as can be, Were separated so tragically.

Along the banks of a river blue, These two friends sat, strong and true.

George and Lennie spoke of dreams, However things were not as they seemed.

Beside George’s hand that summer day Was a silver pistol, a hunter ready for its prey.

George spoke to Lennie of the farm they’d own.

Lennie dreamed of this place to call home.

George spoke of rabbits, cows, and beauty.

These things George too had loved so truly.

George loved Lennie with all his heart.

The last thing he wanted was for them to part.

George sucked back tears and raised the gun, The silver barrel gleaming in the afternoon sun.

Hands shaking with nervous regret, George pulled the trigger without a threat.

He knew the thing he’d done was right, Yet it was hard for him to sleep that night.

He sobbed himself like a baby might weep.

His sobs shook him heavy and deep.

He cried out late that night, “Dear Lord, what I’ve done just wasn’t right!

Lennie killed someone, I know it was wrong.

Yet why have I been sobbing for oh so long?

Didn’t I save him from Curley’s harm?

It was better than Curley shooting him right there in the barn!”

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The door slowly opened to the dreary night, A shimmery figure lit in the pale moonlight.

Lennie was there, to say farewell, His voice rang out like a Christmas bell.

“George, my friend, do not weep.

Dear friend, you do indeed need your sleep.

Know this while you lie in bed, What you did was not wrong,” he said.

Lennie laughed a little and smiled wide.

“Try to look on the positive side.

Murder is murder, accident or no, But now I can be with rabbits with fur whiter than snow!

Thank you, George, for being my friend.

It’s very sad that things must end.

I must go; my rabbits need my support.

I’ll see you, my friend, even though my time is short.”

Lennie vanished in a cloud of mist, His words had given George quite a twist.

He fell asleep, near early morn.

He awoke bright and early to a thunderstorm.

He got up, ready to report.

When a furry creature made him stop short.

A pure white rabbit sat near the spot Where George had delivered that faithful shot.

The rabbit looked at George and time froze.

Then it shot away with a twitch of the nose.

Sam Noland

Maybe We Should let’s hear it for these angsty weepy poems from our broken hearts well maybe we should. pretty boys and pretty girls we forget all of us how fragile we are. let’s isolate ourselves in our feelings (they hurt) when we forget ourselves and love too hard and miss too much and want

too suddenly without knowing just how deep we’re digging ourselves. when it hits, it hurts. our words are our defense. we mean them i mean them for you: it’s worth it, this fragility for our childish bliss in reckless, disastrous abandon.

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Maddie Weir

The finish line It seems like everyone runs to win the race, Rushing to the finish line, Never slowing down to look around, Never stopping to appreciate the journey.

One always looks toward the ribbon at the end, Toward the final few steps That will make the race come to a halt, Leaving those past moments behind.

Those running right beside you, The crowd cheering you on, Your coaches who’ve guided you, Or your teammates on the sidelines.

But what happens when you cross the finish line, Realizing how fast the race went by?

How you wish you could run it just once again, So you could experience the joy you missed.

Live in the moment, Value the race, Breathe every last breath, And take it all in.

Make it worthwhile, And remember every step you take, Because there is only one race, One run before the finish line.

Dedicated to the Class of 2012 Jen Foltz

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