ALL ABOUT ME by Mechelle Nena

Mechelle Nena

Table of Contents

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50.

Prologue/Letter of Introduction ------------------------------------------------------ P.5 What’s in a name? --------------------------------------------------------------------- P.6 Personal Alphabet ---------------------------------------------------------------------- P.7 Likes/Dislikes List --------------------------------------------------------------------- P.8 Sensory Experiences ------------------------------------------------------------------- P.9 Metaphorical Definitions -------------------------------------------------------------- P.10 A Quality Personality ------------------------------------------------------------------ P.11 Color Your World ---------------------------------------------------------------------- P.12 Room Sweet Room --------------------------------------------------------------------- P.13 Personal Metaphors -------------------------------------------------------------------- P.14 Extended Metaphors ------------------------------------------------------------------- P.15 Symbolic Recipe ------------------------------------------------------------------------ P.16 Ultimate All-Purpose Excuse --------------------------------------------------------- P.17 Telling Tales ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.18 Unfinished Sentences ------------------------------------------------------------------- P.19 Personal Symbol ------------------------------------------------------------------------ P.20 Map of Life ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ P.21 A Mysterious Place -------------------------------------------------------------------- P.22 Synectics --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.23 A Day in the Life ----------------------------------------------------------------------- P.24 These Words Belong to Me ----------------------------------------------------------- P.25 In Other Words ------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.26 Flashback -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.27 Remembrance of Things Present ---------------------------------------------------- P.28 As Time Goes Bye-Bye --------------------------------------------------------------- P.29 My Own List of Lists ------------------------------------------------------------------ P.30 Cheer Yourself Up! -------------------------------------------------------------------- P.31 Metamorphosis ------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.32 Picture This ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.33 Look Who I Look Up To-------------------------------------------------------------- P.34 Remembering the Child --------------------------------------------------------------- P.35 One Medium Suitcase ----------------------------------------------------------------- P.36 The Perfect Present -------------------------------------------------------------------- P.37 Memorable Event ---------------------------------------------------------------------- P.38 How to… -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.39 Always Say Never --------------------------------------------------------------------- P.40 Are You Hungry? ---------------------------------------------------------------------- P.41 Where I’m From ----------------------------------------------------------------------- P.42 Deck of 52 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ P.43 The Examined Life -------------------------------------------------------------------- P.44 Annual Report -------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.45 Ekphrasis -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.46 Visually Speaking ---------------------------------------------------------------------- P.47 Lessons I Learned Too Late ---------------------------------------------------------- P.48 The Door -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.49 Advice to the Young ------------------------------------------------------------------- P.50 Who Am I? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ P.51 Rewarding Experiences---------------------------------------------------------------- P.52 Valuable Lessons ---------------------------------------------------------------------- P.53 Futures -- Fantasy and Fact ----------------------------------------------------------- P.54 Epilogue --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- P.55

You are about to read my life, literally. I know you’ll be yawning by the time we flip to the next page, so please bear with me. Experiences have brought me here where I am today. Experiences make you learn the things you won’t need to repeat later in life. I have observed myself through the previous years that have passed. I’ve had some bad experiences but surely I learned from them. The good experiences are always welcomed to come again. The 17 years that have passed will always occur in my life. I will never forget what happened in my teen, childhood years. It has been such a great experience. I will look back to the days when getting in trouble was nothing to me. Constant prison time in my room, but I’d always find a way out of the house. Now that I’m a young adult, I am able understand the consequences. I have learned through the past few years that I am growing and I growing and I won’t stop. My life has gone through so many struggles and obstacles and yet I am still alive because I got through it all. I am Mechelle Nena, I hope you don’t judge about how my life and how it’s become.

Prompt#1

PROLOGUE My name is Mechelle Ezra Nena. For the past few years and every school that I ever been to all spelled my name wrong, including myself until last year when I found out that my legal name is originally Mechell Winnie Nena. Starting from that day I found out, I been rushing my parents to please talk to the school to confirm my name. My parents never had the time to come in and correct the spelling of my name, as long as my diploma has my original name from my birth certificate. Okay, continuing from where I left off. My name is Mechell Winnie Nena. I am a senior at George Washington high school. I been here all my four years and this will be my last year in this school. Before you start flipping through the pages of my life/past/previous/ future plans I want you to know that I’m going to miss you all. Seeing purple and beige everywhere I go and passing by the different cliques/gangs/ethnicities in each hall. There’s many distinctions in this school, we may not all get along but we all make a family, that’s why we’re geckos. When you’re flipping through the pages, it’s basically what happened in my life and what I want to happen in my life. My goals have not been achieved yet but I’m still maintaining to reach it before someone else does. Many things I want to become but I have set my goals to go to college after high school and major in Business Tourism. I would like to travel and see what the different cities, countries, continents, and beautiful other sites I have never heard of. Well I hope you like my project that I have worked hard on. Everything that deals with my life, including what happened in the current, the past and what I wish to happen in the future?

Prompt#2: WHAT’S IN A NAME?

MECHELLE ^ ^ ^ (Born the month of March) (Fathers first letter) (Grandmothers name) My name holds my grandmothers, mother and fathers name. The letters in my name came from their full names. My name is special to me because my name has its own meaning. From where my grandmother is from, my name means medicine. As I was growing older, my grandmother would never take me to the doctor because I didn’t get sick. I was healthy as a child. My father liked the spelling of my name, because it wasn’t like the rest of Michelle’s. My mother wanted my name to start with an M because I was born the month of March. It made me understand that there has to be reason to why you named your child the name you gave him or her. There’s either a story behind it or you just like the way the name is spelled or said. I’m glad my name holds the three most important in my life until this day. I am honored to be holding a part of their names in mine.

Prompt#3 PERSONAL ALPHABETS

A- Affectionate B- Big- hearted C- Complex D- Decent E- Emotional F- Faithful G- Grateful H- Hilarious I- Imaginative J- Joyous K- Kindhearted L- Legitimate M- Mature N- Natural O- Ordinary P- Prestigious Q- Querulous R- Respectful S- Sleepy T- Thick U- Uncommon V- Valuable W- Weird X- Xcited Y- Young Z- Zesty

Prompt# 4 LIKES/ DISLIKES LIST Likes:            

When people are being honest. Not being with people who gossip. Being with the people I love. Eating junk food at sleepovers. Surprise parties. Sitting down and chatting with my friends. Volunteering my help. Making my little sister cry then making up with her the next 3 minutes. Being there when my friends need me most. Supporting my boyfriend. Quality time with family & friends. Skype session with my sister in Hawaii.

Dislikes:  When I have to find out the truth myself.  Arguing with my boyfriend.  Getting sunburned.  When people complain too much.  When a specific friend eats all my food without saving me some.  Rude people.  Strangers wanting to start a conversation.  Getting in trouble.  Hiding my boyfriend from my parents.  Drama.  Eating when I’m not hungry, this makes me bigger.  Watching people I love getting hurt.

Prompt#5: SENSORY EXPERIENCES

The breezes brushing through my hair as the birds fly on shore and spending the hot afternoon on the beach. The smell comes from the picnic tent, hot-dogs, barbeque, and lit up cigaretteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. The site is beautiful, the weather feels good, and the smell is fantastic. As the water washes up shore, I grab something to eat from the booth. There are many choices but a burger sounds about right. The view is magnificent, the touch of the sand is relentless and the taste of a burger and fries drowning in your stomach. Tanning with Oakley shades on paints a perfect beach picture. Watching the birds fly around and walking along the shore pecking on the sand waiting for someone to shoo them away. The smell of barbeque, burgers, fries, beach sand and sun tan lotion. Glancing at the sun, hearing people gossip about other people about how the bikini is the wrong size for a big person like that. Chilling by the trees to get a good shade and not get too burned in the hot sun. The view of people walking, talking, eating, laughing, and playing on the sand is a chill day. Beaching with your family is always the best time to go beaching, because youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be eating, cooking, playing, swimming, talking and laughing about the stories being told.

Prompt #6:

METAPHORICAL DEFINITIONS

1. Frustration is a lot of homework. 2. Sadness is no food. 3. Happiness is good grades. 4. Shame is a good liar. 5. Peace is a green forest. 6. Justice is the courtroom. 7. Beauty is a flower. 8. Loyalty is a great man. 9. Success is a college degree. 10. Wisdom is a teacher.

Prompt#8: COLOR YOUR WORLD

Maroon- the color of crimson love, fermented Of December midnights, mingled with the tears of flesh Of sweet agony, smoldering behind hazel eyes Of you and I, trying to escape Desire Maroon- the color of a heart slowly dying, in a casket of sophisticated expression Of being: new life and innocence, death and darkest love Of the blood running through our veins, of heart and human nature Of the one I am, floating in the wake of a black swan

Prompt#9:

ROOM SWEET ROOM

In my room, there are three beds. My grandma and two of my sisters all sleep in the same room. So in all there are four of us in the room. My room is probably different than the other students’ own in this class because of the fact that it is not only me in the room. We have different stuff in our room. We have pictures hanging by our mirror. I’m not quite sure why we have it there, but we do. We hang certain stuff from school on our walls too. I guess it’s to remind us of the hard work that we have done. Everything that is in our room is for each and every one of us to use. Whatever is mine is theirs, whatever is theirs is mine, in most cases. The room is a comfortable space for my sisters and I to bond. During this hot season, we prefer sitting in our room and talking rather than to go out in the sun.

Prompt#10

Personal Metaphors If I was a holiday, I would be called, “My holiday”. In that holiday, you get to do anything you want to do. The holiday is to do what you always wanted to do. Everyone is excused to do anything they’d want to do for the day. The cops can’t interfere. If you’re in trouble, you need to find your way out of it. There is no help necessary if you’re doing what you’ve always wanted to do. Find your own way. It’s your day; you must have a plan on how you’re going to spend this holiday. This holiday is meant for yourself. If you want to play dumb and rob a bank, the cops won’t take care of it on the day, but there’s a catch to it. Once you’re caught on video camera they will take you in the next day and make you regret your childish behavior. This day is for you to finally make a change in your life. This day gives you the chance to fly to Africa to feed the poor for free. Flying a plane with the pilot’s presence. Being Santa for a day. Meeting your favorite celebrity. Eating all the things you always wanted to try. Your dreams can come true in just one day. My holiday is the kind of holiday everyone would enjoy. This holiday only comes March 6 once every 4 years. It’s a holiday for everyone to spend wisely and not to take it for granted. You can easily find a job and keep that job for the rest of your life. You won’t have to be the mother that struggles to feed her 5 kids if you play the game wisely. Know what you’re going to do before the holiday comes. Move out to a bigger and nicer house and it’s yours until you have enough to move out and buy your own house. This holiday is for everyone. If you wanted to college and didn’t finish high school, you will have to apply for the college you always wanted to go to but didn’t have enough money to go there, give them all your information that’s needed and if you have a high school diploma they’ll call you the next 12 hours to tell you that you have been accepted to the college. Miracles are meant to happen on this day. My holiday is a worldwide holiday. Take advantage of what you can do about it, something good that will affect your future life. Risk the chances of getting what you want, but what you need is more efficient and what you should be looking at more than the things you want. The main purpose of this holiday is to become the person you always wanted to be not the person that has no choices and take whatever that’s left on the table. Take pride and initiative on what you want more than anything that will help you succeed in life. Everybody deserves a second chance. My holiday is to show what you can do for yourself. The wise decisions you’d make to make your life better. A second chance of having the life you wanted. This is a chance for you to start over. Erase all the mistakes you made and restart. Look at a brighter future. Re-do your plans and commit to it. My holiday is a reasonable holiday for everyone. It changes you to become a better person. Knowing better on what you want to do with your life. Take initiative in all tasks. And just being a better person than you were as before.

Prompt#12:

SYMBOLIC RECIPE: MECHELLE BROWNIES 1 cup of beauty 2 of laziness ½ of stubbornness 1 cup of friendliness ¼ of patience 2 cups of humor ½ of craziness Directions: First take the cup of beauty and mix it in with a cup of laziness. The laziness is too overpowering so add in the cup of friendliness to balance it out. Set that aside and let it sit. Grab another bowl and add in ½ of stubbornness with ¼ of patience. Mix it well, because these two elements are what gives the brownies a nice crunch. Mix in the beauty and laziness that you have set aside to get a nice batter. Add in two cups of humor to harden the mixture a little. Put it in the oven at three hundred and sixty degrees for about twenty five minutes. When it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool. When cooled, sprinkle on ¼ of craziness. And there you have it. Insanely delicious brownies that you will now want to get tired of.

Prompt#13: THE ULTIMATE ALL- PURPOSE EXCUSE

I don’t know what happened. I just blacked out when God came down to visit me. He showed me a slide show of all the bad things I have done in my life. It would turn out to be a series if it was to be a book. I’ll tell you the story of his arrival. As I was walking home from school, I heard a loud thump on the other street. I was suspicious about it so I walked down to the other street and something fell on my head, I glanced up to see and it was God. God came down from heaven to give me a lecture of how my life will end up if I continued with how I lived my life. He swiped his hands through the air and a video of me popped up on the wall. The only way the video can play is if I wipe my blood on the play button to prove DNA. The video started to play. The video ended, and God started lecturing me about my life. How it’s wrong how I am living and it’s not how I was raised to be. I cried out to him asking for forgiveness. He gave me an option, if I was to live the rest of my life like this and leave it as it is at the end of the month he will forgive me. If I break the deal, he will only warn me, but not lecture and give me a piece of advice. The last thing he said was, Mechelle be the good girl you are, follow your heart, not your friends. I went back home and didn’t say anything to anybody. The next morning, He came back. He forgot to give me a bible from heaven. He told me to keep it and take good care of it because that will be my pass to go to heaven when he returns. I was already late for school, so he took me out for breakfast at Denny’s. I mean who would give up breakfast with God? I started my day with the lord. He has guided me to school and helped me in life. He is my savior. This is my reason of being late to your class. The lord will forgive you if you forgive me.

Prompt#14: TELLING TALES

Because of the fact that my parents are leaders in our church, they are always telling us religious stories or stories that come from the Bible. They tell us these stories to help guide us throughout life. They want us to be good people while growing up so they constantly recite these tales to my sisters and I as well as the rest of our church community. During the Christmas holiday is when we hear stories as well as songs and other forms of praises. Christmas is the most special holiday in our culture, and the story it hold is pretty precious to us. My parents have raised us with these types of stories to help us become better people. They try to help as much people as they can with the words of God. But it’s most important that they start with their family. If not, it will make it seem as if they are hypocrites. I mean why would they preach about doing the right things, when their own kids’ aren’t doing so? So it’s real important that we as a family do the right things.

Prompt#15: UNFINISHED SENTENCES 1. I usually worry about… losing the people I love. We will all die and everyday people are dying . And of these people dying, countless people die because of accidents. And their loved ones have not told them any kind last words. I don’t want that to happen to me. Because our bodies will eventually rot in a casket, we should all take the remaining time to treat everyone as if they are actually dying. Because if we do that, we will all be nicer to each other. And when the person actually does die, you are only thinking about them, you won’t be thinking about what you could have done because you already done what you could have while they were alive. 2. I feel angry when… my parents don’t allow me to do anything. I know, I know they are my parents. But I feel as if they are too strict on us. It’s a good thing, but I want them to be able to trust me, to trust all of my sisters. They are constantly worrying about us. And I don’t want it to be like that. I want them to be able to trust me when I tell them that I am going to go somewhere and actually be at that place. It’s because they don’t really trust me that they don’t allow me to go anywhere. 3. I’m moody when… I have my period. I know it’s something that all of us as girls go through, but I hate it. If my mood changes really fast, then I know that I am soon to get my period. And while I have my period, my cramps constantly come and go just as they please. When I do encounter them, I tend to change moods very fast. I hate how we have to go through these kinds of things, but I guess we’re going to have to. 4. I’m happiest when… I have food. I love coming home to good food on the kitchen stove. It lets me relax. When I have food, solid food or junk food, I feel excited. But it’s because I get too comfortable and relaxed that I end up taking a nap. I don’t know, I just like food a lot! 5. I feel confident when… I do well in my classes. In my family, I’m never really the one to get straight A’s. I can but it’s not as easy for me as for some of my other sisters. When I do obtain good grades, my parents are very proud of me. I feel like I can do anything I want because of the fact that I never really thought I can do really well in school. 6. I feel frustrated when… I have a lot to do in so little time. Throughout the years I have been told that time is really precious and that I shouldn’t take advantage of it, because it can be gone just like that. When I have a ton of homework to do and it’s due just the next day, I feel confused and agitated. And I hate myself for holding it off until the last minute. 7. I feel depressed when… I get into a lot of trouble. I am constantly doing so and I have no idea why. Sometimes when I do something, I don’t really think of the outcome, I only think of the time I’m in. I enjoy all these things, and then I remember that I might get into loads of trouble when I get home. And from there I don’t feel as excited as I was before. 8. I am comfortable when… there’s an air conditioner in the room that I’m in. Guam is just really hot, I can’t handle it sometimes. It’s way too hot here. Staying inside the house with the air conditioner turned on, watching a couple movies is when I feel the most relaxed and comfortable. 9. I feel nervous when… I am about to present something. Whether in school or at church, I tend to feel real scared to stand in front of people. It’s probably stage fright, not really sure but I just know I get nervous. I don’t go into a full on nervous breakdown though. I just tend to stutter when I am talking in front of a crowd. 10. I feel sentimental when… I see my family members cry. I hate it. But it does happen. When a person in my family is going through a rough time, I feel really bad. And when they shed their tears, it makes me feel even worse. It shows how much they are going through and I feel for them.

Prompt#16:

PERSONAL SYMBOL

My clothes are my personal symbol, especially my shirts. My shirts are the most important thing I care about. My shirts easily describe me how I am. My t-shirts from middle school and down, I had no intentions of looking pretty. I have so many purposes to each shirt I wear. I’ve had my t-shirts since I was in elementary. I have a closet full of the clothes I don’t use, but it has much meaning to me. My dad would always tell me to get rid of the clothes I don’t need, so I secretly hide the clothes I don’t need. There’s a story to every shirt I have worn. I’ve always loved t-shirt, tanks, blouses, off the shoulder, strapless, roll up sleeve, French cuff, camisole, flannel, halter, raglan sleeves, etc. I can go all day naming my shirts I have in my closets. Every shirt I bought has either a good story or a bad story behind it all. I hold all my shirts, even the torn ones, stained ones and not wearable ones. I like the stories to everything. Stories from when I was young until this day.

Prompt#17: MAP OF LIFE

Birth: Came out of momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stomach Celebrated my first birthday Took my first steps First Christmas with the family Moved to latte heights First day of school Met new friends Went kosrae for Christmas Little sister born Moved to Dededo New school New friends Got my first sneakers Dad buys me a Gameboy First day going to dads work Met my dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s co-workers kids Made new friends Started playing softball Won our first game Caught my first baseball Another sister born Moved to Barrigada Bought and settled in the house New school New friends Went kosrae for Christmas Went to Untalan Middle School Made new friends again Finished Middle School Started High School Met new friends again Went to my first football game Senior year comes Struggling as hell Sister comes back from college Doing last minute work

Prompt #18: THE MYSTERIOUS PLACE

Starting new, I turn around with my pack bag clutched tight around my shoulders and face my new home. American Samoa. The beach on the far right while people on the left. Some with little kids on their hips while on others the kids seem to be enjoying the ride from up on their shoulders. The island style home vibe I get from just standing on the cement path where all the people bustle about like the smells of food cooking and people laughing just enjoying the day makes me feel at home, calming me down. Turning towards the beach, I look closer and can faintly make out the volleyball net. From this distance, I realize that there are people playing and shouting at one another. Wishing I can play, I eagerly make my way over and watch the ball go back and forth in an hypnotizing rhythm over the net. When the game is almost over, I look around the group of players and realize that they are all in good shape with tanned skin. Feeling out of place for the first time since I got here, I turn around and continue looking around this beautiful place. Going towards the road, I suddenly feel the breeze going through my hair and look up to the sky. I stretch out my arms to my sides and smile for the first time in a long time. I feel free. I feel like Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m finally home. I start skipping on the road, heading towards the little shop I see around the corner. When I get there, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m greeted by a bright-eyed ancient man with a smile that stretched his face. He had wrinkles around his eyes, letting me know he was one happy family man who has loved and lost along the way in during his life. I made my way inside his shop and he starting asking me questions and talking to make me comfortable. I instantly felt really calm and started talking to him about me and told him where I came from. He was surprised but didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t comment. After buying a few needed supplies, I walked out of the shop but not before saying a quick farewell to my new friend. I walked on until I came across a hotel. I walked in and rented a room for a month. I got my new keys, walked up to my room, and then put my bag on the foot of the bed before examining my new place. I looked around my new room and felt at home instantly. I went to the doors leading to a balcony and looked out. I wanted to take it all in. The sight in front of me made me want to just freeze the moment and never blink. It just took my breath away. I just wanted to take it all in and have it all.

Prompt 19: SYNECTICS Which is wiser? A pen or pencil? A pen is wiser, because you are more professional and there is no time to make mistakes or go back. Which is smarter? A clock or a calendar? A clock, because time makes money. Time is important. It has the seconds, minutes and hours to life. Which is more fearful? New or old? Old, because it has more of what is important in life. It’s scary to see the old go away and not knowing what to do with the new. Which is more difficult? A dream or a nightmare? A dream, because it is harder to believe. Which has more pride? An entrance or an exit? An entrance, because walking into something can forever change your life. Which is more useful? A friend or an enemy? A enemy, because you don’t live to satisfy them. Which is happier? Music or art? Art, because it displays more than what it means. Which is braver? An hour or a year? Hour, because you need to get through the day to know how far you can go. Which is sadder? Seek or find? Seek, seeking for what you need is complicated if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Which is easier to forgive? A Street or a sidewalk? A street, there’s many lives on the streets. Many people living on the streets because they have no place to call home.

Prompt 20: A DAY IN THE LIFE The bell rang for lunch, everyone’s favorite time of the day. Mechelle went down to her locker to put back her 1st period books and take out her 2nd period books. She mostly held her books; her backpack doesn’t help much with the rip on the sleeves. Carly came down the stairs and met up with Mechelle. Carly and Mechelle have been best friends since the day Carly moved to her street. “Did you hear?” exclaimed Carly. “What now Carly? Why so nauseated?” Mechelle asked. “Austin is going to make a big announcement during lunch.” exclaimed Carly. Mechelle had the confused look on why Carly was surprised her brother would make an announcement in front of everyone, he’s done it before. “Oh well that’s interesting even if he’s done so many announcements for Class Council. Why are you even shocked?” asked Mechelle. “I have a definite good reason, the announcement is for you!” screamed Carly. Mechelle didn’t know what the announcement was for, but she remembered prom was coming up and she hasn’t got asked to go prom by anyone. She remembered the questions Carly was asking her the other day about prom. She asked Mechelle is she was going prom with anyone that she didn’t know of, but of course Mechelle wasn’t seeing anyone. “Carlyon Regina Jae Marcus, what are you talking about? Why would Austin make an announcement for his sister’s best friend?” Mechelle shockingly asked. “Oh please, I know you both have had something special for each other since we moved here.” Carly shook her head “Carly there’s nothing special that I feel about your brother.” Carly completely ignored her and went to get her lunch. Before they dug into their scrumptious fatty burger, Mechelle looked up and saw that Austin was standing right beside her. She took a big gulp of saliva and swallowed. “Want to sit with us today?” she said. Austin grabbed her hand and pulled her up as he got down to his knees. “Sure, but I would like to ask you something first.” He said. Mechelle suddenly felt multiple sweats dripping down her neck and down to the collar of her shirt as she wiped it down gently. “Austin what is it? Why are you on your knees? Get up and sit next to me.” She nervously said. Inside she was thinking, Come on hurry with the announcement everyone’s looking, please just get this over with. “Will you be my date for prom?” he generously asked. Hands clapping, Crowd going wild, phones and cameras recording the scene. “Yes I would love to.” Answered Mechelle. She had no intentions of being asked to prom by her best friend’s brother/ her crush since they moved there. Austin sat down with her and waited for her to finish her lunch while people are still talking about them on the side. After prom, they became more than friends.

Prompt#21:

THESE WORDS BELONG TO ME

Corindipidous- Having an outrageous conscience repeating in your head. Recretical- Thinking critically to yourself. Ignotsie- An ignorant nazi Fartinia- someone who constantly passes gas. Saungenest- Someone who can tell the truth or lies by the personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nonverbal communication. Cormondest- A modern day with your family. Tougherment- A visual of a tough person in a weak position Fordension- An old building Corresty- High security that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get paid but to keep their people safe. Jurnesty- Taking a short journey to a close site.

Prompt#22: IN OTHER WORDS

The minute you settle for less than you deserve, you get even less than you settled for. - Maureen Dowd Immature love says "I love you because I need you." Mature love says "I need you because I love you." - Erich Fromm From success you get a lot of things, but not that great inside thing that love brings you. - Sam Goldwyn Don't do things to not die, do things to enjoy living. The by-product may be not dying. - Bernie S. Siegel Beauty to me is being comfortable in your own skin. - Gwyneth Paltrow You have to believe in happiness, or happiness never comes. - Douglas Malloch Failure is impossible - Susan B. Anthony Good things, when short, are twice as good. - Baltasar Gracian Teach us to give and not to count the cost. - Ignatius Loyola Be charitable and indulgent to everyone but thyself. - Joseph Joubert

Prompt#23 FLASHBACK

I would love to relive the day I went to kosrae for Christmas 2012. It was a wonderful experience. It’s hard living back there, but luckily we brought a 2 week supply of goods. I must admit, I was getting selfish when we were getting low on snacks. The people there are skinny and short but I feel bad because all they eat is local food, but that’s what makes them so strong. They have good sense of humor and have good potential. The Kosraeans are very respectful and nice. They will offer their help to assist you in anything, no matter what the situation is. Kosraeans have big hearts, I admit. I’m a proud Kosraean and I did learn some things while I was there for Christmas. I learned how to make Banana Rice. It’s sort of complicated, but an easy task. All I remember is adding in smashed bananas, coconut milk and stirring the pot. The things they do is quite different from what Chamorros do. The teens are the ones chopping down wood, the ones cooking, doing the outside work, and indoor work, etc. The lives of two different places are often similar, especially for the Federated States of Micronesia. Guam is a very different source. As I was saying, Kosrae has the most respectful people. They are kind hearted people. When I was there I learned that the Kosraeans barely speak English. It was very hard for me to communicate. Especially when I’d walk to a store, I’d stutter because the cashier either doesn’t speak English or understand English. We both would have a hard time understanding each other. That’s why it’s always good to bring your cousins with you so they can translate both ways. It’s funny at the same time, but I tried my best not to laugh when their trying. Having your 8year old cousin translate your language for you is really embarrassing. I would’ve learned somewhere in my 18 years of living. The houses in kosrae are all near a beach. They hardly swim though, because it’s not that deep unless they go far back where the current is really strong. Kosrae always has this smell. It’s a smoky fresh air kind of smell. I remember every night when the breeze is just blowing you away. It’s a cool fresh breeze that comes from the ocean. People have fun every day and night. Everyone just chills outside their houses and start a conversation every time a person passes by. It’s freaky but it shows how everyone gets along. You don’t see people fighting with each other or gossiping. Everyone is easy to get along with, that’s what I really noticed on my last visit. Maybe that’s where I got my kindness and generosity. The guys and girls are both hardworking. The community workers are teens. They all volunteer to help clean and help the elders in hospitals or homes. Everybody has a task to do every day. My tasks when I was there was to run my uncles store and laundry mat. I had to help everyday just like everybody else. The rules in most houses are, you work and you can eat, you don’t work you don’t eat.

Prompt#25:

AS TIME GOES BYE-BYE

Saying bye-bye to your memories is difficult. You may have a break down just remembering everything that you went through to be where you are today. As seniors, we must be ready to say bye-bye to the young high school life. We are not going to be in GW anymore, but we will always stand as a gecko as for the school motto, “Once a gecko, Always a gecko.” Knowing you won’t be walking through the halls of memories and fame, you will be remembered within the school. The school will have empty halls that no one will want to walk through. The past is the past, you will learn to get over it but it’ll take time. The life as we go by will soon to be gone. We will always remember where we stand, it may be hard but we can all get through it. As time goes by you will notice the quality things you have in life that will be so hard to let go. You have so much to let go, but never forget it. You will cherish these moments in your life forever. It’ll be tough to move on, but you will find a way to get through it all.

Prompt 27: CHEER YOURSELF UP

Distractions: · Run away from home for 3 days · Hangout with strangers · Act like I don’t know the people I actually do know (Family, friends, neighbors) · Pretend like I have memory loss · Run in front of a driving car and scare them · Take a piss in the middle of the road · Lay down peacefully on a beach blanket under the traffic light · Play dead · Crash a random wedding · Sing karaoke like I’m drunk · Sneak out · Attend my cousins college parties · Make people worried sick about me · Starve myself for a whole month

Prompt 28: METAMORPHASIS

BEFORE:  Innocent Child  Trouble maker  Drama Queen  Cared what people think of me  Too nice  No lying  Hardly smiling

AFTER:  Sneaky  Easy on trouble  Peace maker  Don’t care what people think of me, I do what I want  Being too nice can be taken advantage of  Lie about the bad things  Always smiling and laughing Life can change you in many ways Things that you need to face Opportunities that will be thrown away Take them and don’t delay Mistakes are made And it will fade Fight and take chances Don’t wait until you turn into ashes Stay alive And accept your life.

Prompt 29: PICTURE THIS

In this picture, it shows the quality time I spend with my friends in school. They made my day the best on my birthday. It meant so much to me. They have the biggest hearts to think of me as one of them. I’m glad we all enjoyed the day with each other. Just having each other by our sides is always the best. They are my mains. They’re always there for me when I need them. I have a special bond between each and every one of them. My main best friend is on the right of me, Marolyn Joe and the one in the way back, Yvonne Mangefel. These two girls have been there for me through all my years. We went school together in elementary then middle school and now high school. They mean so much to me. They have seen me at my best and my worse. Each girl in this picture represents each island of the Micronesia. Kosraean, Yapese, Pohnpeian and Chuukese all combined together makes a great bond. We all get along with each other. We are different in so many ways, but we still love each other for who we are. We can have our dramatic moments, but it can get fixed in no time. When one goes down, we all go down. Just like that saying “You mess with one, you mess with all.” In our words we like to say “You mess with one coconut, you mess with the whole tree.” We have each other’s backs no matter what the situation is. I love these girls, (front) Jennie, Jaselynn, (Me), Kante, Mcverlynn, (back) Praylyn, Scarlett, Shannon, Marolyn, Julia and Yvonne. 33

Prompt#30: LOOK WHO I LOOK UP TO

Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg. Steve Jobs co-founded Apple Computers with Steve Wozniak. Under Job's guidance, the company pioneered a series of revolutionary technologies, including the iPhone and iPad. Entrepreneur Bill Gates founded the world's largest software business, Microsoft, with Paul Allen, and subsequently became one of the richest men in the world. Mark Zuckerberg is co-founder and CEO of the social-networking website Facebook, as well as one of the world's youngest billionaires. Three brilliant billionaire men all have something in common. They built the most useful things in the world and they all are non-graduates. They inspire me in so many ways. They have made the world live the life much easier today. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m touched by the things they create to make communication a little easier and faster. As years pass by, they upgrade. It makes our world an easier place to live by. Nothing can be done without these three important and brilliant inventors.

Prompt 31: REMEMBERING THE CHILD

When I was a kid I never listened to my parents. I would always fight with my older sisters and older cousins. I was always the trouble maker of the whole family tree. I had the mind of a little kid. I would always act like the sweet kid, but as my grandma would say, I had the most pitiful face every time I saw a little kid. As a kid, I enjoyed watching kids cry. It was my specialties to make them cry then run away. When I came along, I was the youngest but everyone hated me. I had no respect; I always wanted to have fun. I was spoiled as a toddler then when I got older I expected everything to go my way. I was bossy but you can’t blame the kid. My grandparents lived in a two story back in kosrae. They moved here for my birthday. I never realized how special I was to them until they passed away. They left letters for all their grandchildren. Each of us has a share of the family profit. My name of course is under their engagement rings. My siblings all share one profit, their house. I lived with my grandparents when I was growing up. I hated getting disciplined for every naughty move I make. I knew how to steal when I was 6 years old. My mom still has the picture of me in payless. I was hiding under the register belt when they found me eating an unpaid chocolate. It was funnier because the security guard was standing right next to me and watching me. I will never forget this day. I had so many memories when I was young. I only remember the ones where I’m causing trouble. My Mom said there isn’t one day I was a good child. Not even for church. I was a child, what do they expect? A well-mannered kid that sits and shuts up the whole day? I like fun. When I was a kid, I would always make fun of little boys and girls. No matter what the age difference is, I would always make them cry. I was once a bully, but never again. I have learned my lesson through my previous years. The consequences get real by the time you grow up.

Prompt# 33: THE PERFECT PRESENT

Having a perfect teacher that you look up to. Mrs. Griffin is a perfect teacher for an example. She’s so perfect she will give me what I have always wanted. A touch of intelligence and a taste of humbleness and self-confidence. The things that I would die for. Receiving a gift like this would make Mrs. Griffin perfect teacher of the year. These perfect presents would help me so much in my life now. Previous years I would struggle because I don’t know anything about intelligence self-confidence or humbleness. My life will be more positive when I inherit all these presents in me. Intelligence is an important factor. Everybody needs intelligence in order to survive this world. You may need it to find your way out of the hole you are stuck in. Intelligence will get you the future you always wanted. Intelligence is something you will cherish for the rest of your life. You may not notice how intelligent you are, but your workers, peers, friends can all tell. The way you work and communicate with people is more in high terms. Intelligence means leadership and full successfulness. Being humble is having or showing a modest or low estimate of one’s own importance. Showing modesty to people around you will have more people around you. People will look up to you and ask for advice. It’s a very good thing to be humble. The bad thing about being humble is you don’t notice when people are taking advantage of you. You’ll be rich and someone comes in your life and using up all your money and when you’re finally broke, that person automatically disappears in your life. The people in this world are vicious, immoral, dishonorable, vile and etc. Self-confidence is the feeling of trust in one’s abilities, qualities, and judgment. Self-confidence builds emotion and ideas that you’ll be proud of. Having self-confidence will make you strive to do better than the rest. Being proud of you, but not bragging about it will make yourself look even better. Being proud of what you do is tip-top. Selfconfidence builds yourself to better yourself, and look more in what will assist your future life. Mrs. Griffin is the perfect teacher. Given these three main classifications, I will be a successful learner, student, mother, wife, teacher, cook, etc. Looking into my future life, it would be what I’ve always wanted.

Prompt#34: MEMORABLE EVENT Senior Prom 2014 was the most memorable event I have had this school year. I wouldn’t say a magical night because most people use that description so I would say it was a night to never forget. Going to your senior prom with someone that means the whole world to you means a lot. Having that special person by your side until the night ends is the best thing that can happen. Spending every moment with that special person will always be the best memory ever. If I was to do it again, I would spend the night with the person, because my senior prom I didn’t get to crash at the hotel, because we had a surprise party for one of my nephews that were going off for college. My senior prom was by far the most memorable experience for me throughout this school year. Movie time with this special someone is a happy moment. Watching a movie and just staying with each other, sneaking in other movie theatres. There’ a pinch of stupidity and romantic at the same time. Making new memories is always the best thing to do with your special someone, every moment counts.

Prompt 35: HOW TO How to get in trouble - Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t follow the rules - Not listening to anyone - Doing what you want to do - Not asking permission to go out - Lying to your parents

How to sneak out - Stay up until everyone is sleeping - Sneak outside - Be very quiet - Lock the door but bring the house key along - Wake up your sister and tell them to call or text you when parents are awake.

How to fail your classes - Turning assignments late - Not doing projects - Unsatisfactory for citizenship - Not listening to your teacher - Not doing homework

How to disrespect - Breaking the rules - Not respecting your elders - Disobeying - Answering back - Not coming home before dinner

Prompt#36: ALWAYS SAY NEVER

Life has many broken promises, in your heart there will always be a never. There aren’t that many books I regret reading, the books I have read are the books I am interested in. the books I have read, I will want to read again and again until I get tired of the book. After high school, I hope to never see this girl I dislike so much. Rumors are spread out about everyone that she feels like dissing. She has caused so much trouble. She deserves to be out of everyone’s lives. Other than that, I would never want to watch a scary movie with my friends. I would never want to experience such a horrible night again. It may have left a mark on my pupils because of the most hideous monsters I’ve ever seen. I’d rather be deaf and blind to ever watch a scary movie with them again. Losing my sight and my hearing will make me feel better. I would only be around people that I would trust and not murderous people who would give me nightmares for months. When I’m with my friends, there always has to be something stupid that happens. It’s scary at times, but when we all look back to it we all laugh till we reach the ground.

Prompt#37: ARE YOU HUNGRY?

My favorite meal is my grandma’s friend chicken. My grandma’s friend chicken is the best cooked chicken ever. It’s mouthwatering, savory, and breathe taking. When she cooks it for dinner, I let her relax first so when she cooks it well. She needs to take her time and put her secret recipe so it can have the magical taste it always has. When you rip the skin off the chicken, it’s the smoky and spiciness that makes it so mouthwatering. As it cools off, you just want to grab a leg and eat it right there. We’re not allowed to touch the chicken until everyone’s on the table and ready to eat. Everyone’s plates are set and everyone in their seats. The chicken thighs, breasts and legs are staring me down; I’m sweating. I need to get a taste of that chicken. Dad starts blessing the food with a prayer I’m picturing the chicken in my mouth and ready to devour. The love I have for my grandma’s fried chicken is deadly. I’d kill for her chickens. It’s the most amazing thing you will ever taste.

Prompt 38: WHERE I’M FROM Kosrae is where I’m from. Born and raised here in Guam. The culture and tradition of kosrae and Guam mixed together is what made me who I am today. I am proud to be from Kosrae. The way Kosraeans unite their people is by yelling and saying, “Come we half meedhing”. Okay I’m just playing around but there are so many traditional cultures that we have to follow. Let me tell you some of our traditions. For the girls, they are not allowed to drink alcohol or do drugs. If there was a Kosraean couple staying together, they must get married as soon as possible. For the boys, well they mostly play the girls, because they somewhat “think” they can get all the girls they want. Kosraeans have a strong bond of respecting other cultures and their people. We are most similar to the other Micronesian Islands. We don’t cause that much trouble as they do, I’ll say. Kosraeans can cause minor problems, but of course we go right ahead and fix them. The way Kosraeans treat other people is how I respectfully treat other people. We are raised to treat our elders with respect as if their king or queen. Obeying is one of our main traditions. Kosraeans are hard-working citizens. They have so much experience in outdoor activities. They may be dark skinned; but that skin color represents the hard work they put through the whole day to put food on the table. I respect every religion and every race. Their culture is what makes them who they are today. Visiting kosrae was a great experience for me. I had the chance to work outside, fishing with the uncles and weaving baskets for plates. The lives are tough, but guarantee it will help you through anything. If you were to be stuck on a deserted island you have so many techniques that’ll help you survive for months or even years. I have never gone spear fishing before but I’ve watched my cousins do it and they never asked if I wanted to try. It looks dangerous, yet they enjoy it. Visiting your home land can teach you so many things. The religion in kosrae is very strong. Most of the Kosraeans are Protestants. We go church every Sunday and the ladies meet every Friday to study more about the bible. It’s only for the Ladies. It’s called the Woman of Christ Association. It’s been going on for so long now and it continues till this very day. There are so many cultures in the world, we have every right to respect it the way we want others to respect ours. I understand the difference in each culture/tradition. That is one of the main reasons why the world is so corrupted and haters hating everywhere. All we need to do is sit down, breathe and respect each other’s space. I am a Kosraean that was born and raised here in Guam. I am proud to be from the 671-691. Being an islander is what I will always be. It’s what made me who I am today.

Prompt#40: EXAMINED LIFE

Best things about myself: I enjoy being tall. I know how to cook. I am a determined person. I take things seriously. I am open minded. I take other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advices in. When I learn something, I do my best to apply it.

Bad things about myself: I tend to be judgmental. I am stubborn. I can be lazy at times. I like to stall. Someone needs to tell me what to do. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just do things on my own. I sometimes live rebelliously.

Prompt#41: ANNUAL REPORT

It wasn’t until last year that I started to take school seriously. I saw that my sister went off to college, so I realized that that’s what I wanted to do too. Last year, I didn’t slack as much as the years before. I started to work hard because I had realized that it was almost my time to graduate and I wanted to make my parents proud as well. And so that’s what I did. I worked hard last year and I am continuing to do the same this year. This year I expect to pass all my classes with no lower than a seventy five percent. I am constantly pushing myself to do my best in all my classes. I hope that this year I make more progress in school than I have last year. A year from now, I see myself in college to pursue a decent career. A career in which I will enjoy waking up every morning to go to.

Prompt#42: EMPHASIS

Mommy is my superhero Daddy is her sidekick They both help me grow To be a great kid I am excited for my new sibling Because we will have fun Playing all day and pretending Until the whole day is done

Prompt#43: VISUALLY SPEAKING

Prompt#44 LESSONS I LEARNED AFTER I WAS TOO LATE We have always made some mistakes in life and we cannot go back to fix them. I made some mistakes in life that I cannot take back. I once went to a party I was invited to, but my parents didn’t let me go so I decided to sneak out at night with my friends. I didn’t like the feeling of my dishonesty but everyone was going to the party and so I wanted to tag along. Once we reached the party, we met up with all our friends. We went to our table and sat there for a while until the party started. Once it started, my friend’s phone rang. The call was for me; my parents were looking for me. I told my parents straight out that I was at the party, but I lied that there was no alcohol and so they decided to let me stay. Everybody knows I don’t drink or do any drugs. My friends have my back by making sure the alcohol and drugs are out of site. Once I got home my parents kept scolding me about sneaking out. No parent likes it when their child sneaks out at night to go to a party full of drunks and druggies. Every parent has every right to worry about your sake. And so I haven’t snuck out after that. I dislike the dishonesty I showed to my parents and now I have to work for their trust. My other experience of making a mistake that I cannot take back is when I fought my cousin in front of my whole family and friends. It’s embarrassing when you see violence happening at your family reunion. My family had to fly to kosrae for our 9th reunion. We had a big celebration and everyone getting together and catching up on each other’s lives. Before the party started when we were still decorating the place, I had a disagreement with my aunty of how I wanted the flowers. She wanted the flowers flat and spread on the table but I thought it was messy and so I wanted to put the flowers in my grandmother’s vase. We disagreed with each other’s choice and so my uncles had to decide where to put the flowers. We were about to have dinner just when my cousin came in. My cousin has had some marriage problems but nobody told her to get married at such a young age. My cousin, Raena has never showed up on time to anything. So it’s no surprise if she was to come in late for her own wedding reception. Different family members and friends kept coming in and out. I had a difficult talking to one another because when I actually looked closely there were so many unfamiliar faces. I had nephews and aunties and nieces I never even knew about. Raena came in introducing me to her new boyfriend. Her boyfriend was rude eating and greeting with his mouth full. I refused to glance away and so I asked if he’d like some local food. I went to the back room to get some refreshments but as I walked in I overheard Raena talking on the phone about leaving the reunion as soon as it begins. I shut the door wildly so she would be able to hear my entrance. She looked back as I walked in covering the phone because she knows for a fact that the family has worked so hard to make this reunion happen and if they hear about her plan to abscond the most important event for all of us they’ll be passed the word pissed. We started arguing and told me she can explain but I grabbed her hair and we started to go at it. I was so mad I kept screaming in her face, Uncle Joe and Uncle Mark heard the screaming and came in to bide us away from each other. I told them what I overheard then she began to explain what the conversation about. My parents came in and Raena explained the misunderstanding. I was so ashamed of myself. My uncle explained to me that it happens when we over stress then you eventually take out everything on one thing. And in this situation I took it out on my innocent cousin Raena. I haven’t felt this bad about anything. I haven’t eavesdropped since this incident and so I ask directly instead of assuming. 48

Prompt#45: THE DOOR When I walk out that door, I want to run out the school to freedom. Inhaling the fresh air around me, I continue to the run towards the woods where all I can hear is peace and quiet. No bells ringing, no loud mouthing teens around me pushing and shoving talking about how useless I am in this world. I will feel safe and calm not having to worry about anything anymore. Just listening to the wind making the leaves ruffle makes my heart beat calm and steady. I can finally think to myself how ridiculous how all this really is. Moving to a new place and trying to fit in. How I wish I could just stop moving around and just stay in one place. But I can’t. Not yet. When I walk out that door, I don’t want to find the school principal waiting there for me. Asking why I came to school late and why I didn’t report to her office when I came to school. I don’t want to deal with all that right now. I don’t want to tell her what happened at home on my way to school. I didn’t want to tell her that I got hurt when all she will do is worry more about me. I don’t want her to pity me. I don’t want to look in her eyes when she sees the bruises under my jacket and see the compassion she has for me. I don’t want to look at her at all. I don’t want to feel that safety feeling when she worries about me. I don’t want to make her feel like she has to care. Like she owes me anything.

Prompt#46: ADVICE TO THE YOUNG

To my young child,

Life is always going to get difficult. There are many obstacles you'll have to go through to survive the real world. You have a young mind and you don't know much of what's happening around you. You have a big future ahead of you. Life is going to take its chance to hit you but you need to avoid that by making the right decisions. You are smart and bold. Believe in yourself and always have faith. I have gone through so many obstacles in life dealing with school, friends, family, and relationships. You will experience the consequences. Think about what you’re doing first then you do it. From my years of learning and experiencing the bad things in life, isn’t what everyone should go through. School wasn’t always my thing. I didn’t like to listen or learn. I had no intentions of coming school on time or doing homework at home. I learned slowly when I became a high school student. High school gets a lot tougher. You have no room to fool around. The outcome of hard work pays off in the end, because you will have a bright and successful future for yourself and your family. When you’re in tough situations you can’t deal with, you know who to turn to. You have so many loved ones that are always open to give you advice. You can either talk to your dad, grandma, or brothers. As you’re mother, I will always be here for you no matter what the situation is. I will help you through it step by step. When you’re having the worst day and you feel like the whole world is against you all you got to do is sit down, talk to yourself in a positive manner. Look at yourself in the mirror and reflect on how you got in the situation. Don’t take it out on yourself, just breathe and talk about it to someone you trust. Your solutions are everyday situations that are dealt with.

Prompt#47:

WHO AM I?

Flower: I grow everyday partly because of the pollen; I learn about myself each day and I incorporate everything I take in. Eyes: I am very observant; I notice everything around me, from the plucking of eyebrows to a friends’ change in attitude. Pencil: I am a sharp student; I erase what I don’t need and keep what I do Glue: I am an adhesive element family; Although I’m messy, I keep things together. Light bulb: I can be vibrant at times; I am able to turn on or turn off my brightness.

Prompt 48: REWARDING EXPERIENCES Trip to Kosrae I had a wonderful experience in kosrae. It made me learn so much about the outdoor life. Everyone works outdoors. They are such hardworking people. I admire them so much. College Banquet It was a great experience. Learning more about what I want to do in college. They give so many options. I need to narrow down what I want to do in my life. Marching for Christmas Celebration Marching for our Christmas celebration is always a good experience. Every year we do the same thing. It’s a Kosraean tradition to march and sing together as one in unison. Family Gatherings Our family gatherings are always interesting. I have a big family. They all meet up at our place and have meetings for parties or celebrations. My uncles are always prepared for anything. They always have a say in everything. They are the most organized. I’d like to be organized and prepared as my uncles. Being a senior All my work has finally going to get paid off. Just a few more months till we all graduate and become young adults in the big world. It’s quite scary to move on and fit in with the adult world, but its takes courage and independence to be successful. Forgiving Forgiving someone is a big thing. Getting over the grudge you have been holding on to is very relieving. Learning from mistakes I’ve made some mistakes in life that I can’t take back. When you have a chance to make things right, you take that chance. You will learn to forgive yourself and move on.

Prompt 49: VALUABLE LESSONS 1. Lying When you lie to your parents you can never get away with it once they catch you. They wouldn’t trust you in doing things you always want to do. 2. Staying up late When you need to ride the bus in the morning and you accidently miss the bus, and you have no other ride to go to school. You have no choice but to miss school. 3. Talking to strangers Talking to strangers is not at all good, but it depends on the people you are talking to. I talked to strangers once in a while, but I don’t continue doing the routine. 4. Dealing with drama When you’re dealing with drama in school between friends, you choose one side so either side can know who they can trust in this situation there in right now. 5. Skipping school Skipping school isn’t the best idea. You miss out on the class assignments that you won’t be able to make up unless you miss your lunch time or break time. 6. Last-minute shopping Last-minute shopping sucks. You have to rush and you miss the good stuffs because you aren’t looking that good. 7. Fighting with sisters You have to learn not to fight with your siblings physically. When you do, of course there will be a punishment waiting for you. 8. Procrastinating You won’t finish on time if you procrastinate. It’s not the best look for you. You wouldn’t want other people to finish and succeed while you’re still here looking for what you’re missing. 9. Talking back When you talk back, you get a slap on the neck. You have no respect to whom you are talking to. First thing, always respect and listen to those who are older than you. 10. Planning last-minute Always have a plan. A plan that you know will get you through the day knowing what to do. 53

Prompt#50: FUTURES- FANTASY AND FACT

Preparing dinner for later, as I get the kids ready for dinner. Cooking, washing, watching the kids, and feeding them until their father gets home from work. On my day off, I’m the stay home mom. Take my sons to basketball practice and my daughter to her softball game. My agenda is usual full on my stay home mom days. I take the kids out for fun time and tutoring later in the afternoon. Raising my kids to be independent and responsible young adults. Having them clean their rooms as they get ready for school. They have responsibility in picking out their own clothes and take a quick run to the kitchen for breakfast. In ten years, I will have the family I have always wanted. Not letting my work get in the way of our family time. I’d make time for my husband and especially my kids. Every kid and husband needs their wife. Taking full responsibility for your family is a big role. You have the courage to take initiative in what you’re supposed to do. Giving your undivided attention when your kids or husband is asking for the attention. Great things will come to you as you give. In the ten years that will come, I will be the hard working mom that will support her husband and kids through anything and everything. Raising kids and a husband is the toughest job. I can succeed with the right people to help me. I can handle my husband alone. The right things will be done and made. Trouble makers will be the good makers of everyone’s problems.

I am Mechelle Nena. I’m a student at George Washington high school. This project has made me realize about all the things I have done in my life. These things made me learn so much, which got me here today. I have made so many failures in life but I have learned and adapted from them. Everything I went through in life has made a better person. I have become more, sufficient and independent in what needs to be done. I procrastinated a lot of times this school year. I never thought I would get so serious with school, but here I am struggling from this project. I’ll be honest, I haven’t been turning in my submissions, and I have learned that procrastination is not healthy for you. You lack sleep, nutrients and free time. You must finish what you started. Finishing what you started is what life is really about. You must understand the factors and consequences you need to succeed in this corrupted world. Life may be hard, but God will help you through it. If you are struggling, take the time to get on your knees and pray. Praying always helps, it builds more confidence in you and tells you to never give up in education. Education is an important part of your life. Everyone needs it to understand what’s going on in the world today. This project taught me a lot of things that I shouldn’t do anymore, and what I should be aware of.