Unplugged Feeling trapped and tied to technology, Iris RamirezAlvarez examines a world disconnected from nature. Iris Ramirez-Alvarez
I
found myself standing at the top of the world on Spencer Butte. I hiked all the way up to get a glimpse of Eugene and Springfield. I balanced on a big rock with my muddy sneakers, letting the scorching hot sun sting my back, wrapping me in its warmth. The sky was a soft shade of blue, no clouds in sight. I could see miles upon miles from where I stood. The world looked so small and harmless. I could see trees, a variety of them. There were small trees, tall trees, trees with no leaves, and trees that were covered in green. The world had never looked so peaceful. The fresh smell of flowers, the sound of birds chirping as they soared through the sky, and the breeze flowing through my hair all overwhelmed my senses. I felt peace, a feeling that had become so foreign. I looked behind me and saw the big city. I could hear so much more from that direction. I pictured the sound of cars
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Piper Sugg
racing down the streets, the flashing of open signs turning on and off throughout the day, and the loud vibrant noise that came from the crowds of people going about their day. It was the opposite of nature. There was no sense of relief or peace. At that moment, I did not want to go back. I was overcome by a wave of sadness. I didn’t belong in the city. I was happier here, without worry or responsibility. I wanted to wait for the sky to turn into a mix of warm oranges and pinks until the stars appeared and the night had taken over the world. As much as I wished to stay on top of this mountain, I couldn’t stay forever. Just like everybody else, I had obligations. I was a daughter, a student, and a person who was just starting their life, and had to work to survive. The following day, my head rested against the white frame of my bedroom window as I stared out onto my street waiting for something exciting to happen. The now
