Pegasus 2019

Elements ¡ Pegasus 2019

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Elements

Elements Allie Saada Watercolor, Collage, Photoshop

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Scenes of Smoke Shelley Shamah Acrylic Paint on Canvas

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Pegasus 2019 · Elements

Pegasus 2019 Literature and Art Magazine

Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School Al and Sonny Gindi Campus 1609 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230 www.flatbush.org

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Dear J... Jack H. Dweck Canon Rebel

Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari Head of School

Rabbi Joseph Beyda Principal

Sari Bacon Associate Principal

Esther Hidary Assistant Principal / Director of Admissions

Rabbi David Galpert Assistant Administrator

Mr. Abie J. Hidary President

Rabbi Dr. David Eliach Principal Emeritus

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Jaclyn Pahuskin English Faculty / Pegasus Advisor

Jason Novetsky Arts Faculty

Carolina Cohen Arts Faculty / Design

Mica Bloom English Department Chairperson

Pegasus 2019 ¡ Elements

Dedication Mr. Jason Novetsky

Mr. Novetsky, In your classroom, some of the very best ideas are drawn with your guidance and support. You encourage artistic thinking and help us find our way. Students rely on you to listen to any crazy project; we always feel safe in sharing our work. You teach us to escape our comfort zones and to explore new means of self-expression through art. You even worked with us to develop scenery for the Yachad play a week before opening night!

Your commitment to your students enabled each of us to grow, not only in our work, but also as people. You are a gifted art teacher, but more importantly, you are a role model and confidante for your students. You explained why we should not be content with copying art and challenged us to focus on developing our individual potential so that we can become the ones to inspire others. We learned from you that art isn’t only what other people see, it’s about what you see in yourself.

You showed us that art is connected to every element of the universe and that we can see the beauty in anything. As 9th graders, we began our high school journey with you. You weren’t just a talented teacher who taught us how to hold a paintbrush (which some say took them a few months), you also taught us skills for life. You educated us to be attentive, mindful of our surroundings and to create our own vision with imagination and knowledge.

With patience, understanding and genuine concern for every student, you guided us to achieve in whatever we chose to do. Your dedication and care have made a unique impact on our Flatbush experience, one which we will forever remember and cherish.

Thank you!

Pegasus Staff 2019

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Alone / Steven Chetrit / Poetry Did He Ever / Shelley Shamah / Poetry The Flower Pot Lenore Mizrachi / Poetry Overcoming 1943 / Renee Cohen / Poetry The Sun / Steven Chetrit / Poetry There is a Light / Morris Tawil / Poetry Thoughts To My Love / Natalie Ryba / Poetry When I Go to See the Sky Tonight / Nicole Muravsky / Poetry Never Surrender / Betty Hidary / Poetry War / Priscilla Baranoff / Poetry Where I’m From / Adina Cohen / Poetry Only in a Fairy Tale / Rebecca Coopersmith / Poetry Waves / Rebecca Dweck / Poetry Floating on the Perfect Wave / Marcelle Sasson / Poetry The Key / Frieda Dabah / Poetry God / David Guy / Poetry Money Shmoney / Raquel Oved / Poetry My Past is my Present / Barbara Melamed / Poetry Ant / Albert Saad / Poetry Life / Joseph Kamkhatchi / Poetry Inspiration / Evan Rosenfeld / Poetry I Can and I Will / Rachel Lincer / Poetry Perseverance / Rochelle Hafif / Poetry

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I Am Israel / Tami Cohen Crowded / Allie Saada Home / Mimi Sultan Artist’s Garden / Sarah Abramson World Wall / Shelley Shamah Déjà Vu / Ralph Sarway

Writing 53 Blue / Sarah Cheney / Poetry 54 Don’t Laugh / Barbara Melamed / Poetry 59 The Couple / Linda Abramson / Poetry 59 Two Faced / Jessica Saadia / Poetry 61 Dark Day / Virginia Oved / Poetry 63 Heritage / Raquel Oved / Poetry 65 I, Too, Exist Men / Lynn Franco / Poetry 67 My Siddur / Claudine Hadef / Poetry 69 Kippah / Ralph Sarway / Poetry 69 Peer Pressure / Raquel Oved / Poetry 71 The Boy / Lillian Haddad / Poetry 73 Cry Me A River / Shelley Shamah / Poetry 74 Strength is Power / Virgina Oved / Poetry 77 My Dear Diary / Joyce Louz / Poetry 79 What Went Wrong? / Jenna Ashkenazie / Poetry 81 Life Lesson / Raquel Oved / Poetry 83 Misunderstood / Norma Hizami / Poetry 85 Dear Summer / Rachel Lincer / Poetry

Earth Water

Table of Contents

Writing

Art 1 Grow As We Go / Shelley Shamah 2 Texture / Tami Cohen 4 AB / Ness Bawabeh 5 32° / Celia Banbahji 6 Garden / Mimi Sultan 8 Asymmetry / Jack Bibi 12 It’s All a Blur / Joseph Ezon 14 Pollen of a Flower / Alan Frastai 16 Inside Out / Joy Cattan 17 Mirror Image / Shelley Shamah 18 This is Nuts! / Rafi Nemet 18 Rocks / Jacqueline Rabih 20 What is Your Legacy? / Nissim Mishan 22 Her Story / Arlyne Jemal 24 Lizard / Jack Bibi 26 Le’Veon Bell / Selim Sabbagh 27 Aftermath / Joshua Idy 30 Morning Visitor / Simone Dweck 32 Waffle / Jack H. Dweck 34 Don’t Limit Me / Arlyne Jemal 34 Point of View / Arlyne Jemal 36 Through the Shadows / Sarah Abramson

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Art 51 Overflowing / Allie Saada 52 Blue / Gabrielle Hershowitz 56 Vast / Shelley Shamah 57 Texture of Life / Barbara Melamed 58 Night Diving / Joshua Idy 60 Lucid / Joshua Dweck 62 Looks That Kill / Yael Frechter 64 Claustrophobia / Sheila Levy 66 Planet / Jack H. Dweck 68 Smothered to be Saved / Yvette Halfon 70 Under my Umbrella / Joy Cattan 72 Snow Day / Arlyne Jemal 76 Vital / Stephanie Tarrab 78 Splash! / Arlyne Jemal 80 The Endless Path / Alan Frastai 82 Walking to Water / Rachel Sanders 84 Colors of WInter / Barbara Melamed

Writing

Writing

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Breakups are Lessons / Rachel Bernstein / Poetry Cloud / Eli Durzieh / Poetry Three Simple Words / Monica Sultan / / Poetry Duck, Duck, Goose / Jacob Khalili / Essay Lonely / Bonnie Melamed / Poetry Demon / Jacob Jakubov / Poetry Lost in Time / Yael Fretcher / Poetry Hiccups / Katriella Weingarten / Essay Dear Self / Shira Simchon / Poetry Love Me / Renee Cohen / Poetry My Superego / Rachel Lincer / Poetry Meaningless Memories / Marcy Sultan / Poetry Winter / Rachelle Beyda / Poetry You Are My Joy / Yvette Dayon / Poetry Censored / Chen Menashe / Essay The Leopard and the Fox / Albert Saad / Poetry Whisper in C / Katriella Weingarten / Poetry Manners / Eric Ben-Shlomo / Essay The Day We Met / Betty Hidary / Poetry

87 88 90 92 96 98 100 102 104 106 108 110 112 116 117 118 120 122 123 126 127

Art Floating / Yael Frechter Lines / Betty Greenberg Air City / Selim Sabbagh Kaleidoscope / Orly Alchikifati Initials / Sheila Levy A 6 Million Shaped Void / Shelley Shamah Defying Gravity / Celia Banbahji Vanishing Point / Jack Bibi Rainy Day / Shelley Shamah Destroy / Sarit Alkaada Supercallifragilisticexpialidocious! / Barbara Salama Breathe / Joshua Dweck Pinwheels / Mimi Sultan Flight / Marcelle Cohen Wind / Zoe Sabbagh High Contrast / Ralph Sarway Life’s Air / Joseph Ezon Nature / Celia Banbahji Fluttering Asymmetry / Yael Fretcher Nature II / Celia Banbahji Self Destruction / Nissim Mishan

133 And The Cries And The Tears And The Heart

Shella Yazdi / Poetry 135 The Lie / Lynn Franco / Poetry 137 Two-Faced Fire / Nicole Muravsky / Poetry 139 The Beauty of Music / Freddy Chazanoff / Poetry 141 And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer

Rachel Lincer / Poetry 143 A Second Chance / Raquel Oved / Poetry 145 Books / Rebecca Coopersmith / Poetry 147 His Last Breath / Rachel Lincer / Poetry 148 Love / Monica Sultan / Poetry 151 Define Love / Raquel Oved / Poetry 153 The Conquering Worm / David Hidary / Poetry 155 The Last Words / Marcelle Sasson / Poetry 157 Ode to Her / Noam Weinstock / Poetry 158 Darkness from Beyond the Horizon / Stephanie Tarrab / Essay 163 The Birthday / Nicole Levy / Poetry 167 Rise to Greatness / Esther Mizrachi / Poetry 167 Some Days / Natalie Ryba / Poetry 168 Parents / Alyza Anderson / Poetry 171 Unhealed Wound / Kal Abed / Poetry 171 The Shining Light / Tyler Davidovich / Poetry

Air Fire

Art 131 Burning Deep / Katriella Weingarten 132 In Another World / Sarah Abramson 134 Unforgettable / Sarit Alkaada 136 Fire / Rochelle Hafif 138 True Fan / Rafi Nemet 140 Extinguisher / Ralph Sarway 142 Poem / Simone Dweck 144 Lake George / Alan Frastai 146 Darkness is Coming / Joshua Dweck 150 Cam Newton / Selim Sabbagh 152 Pattern Betty Greenberg 154 50 Things… / Rebecca Coopersmith 156 Like Fire / Morris Esquenazi 162 Blue Welding / Joshua Idy 164 Unsquashable / Shelley Shamah 165 Unstoppable / Rafi Nemet 166 Eruption / Ness Bawabeh 170 Ultraviolet Fire / Jack H. Dweck

128 Cold Air / Jack H. Dweck

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Writing Credo / Noam Weinstock / Poetry Blackout / Raquel Oved / Poetry Fear / Jenny Yazdi / Poetry No More / Monica Sultan / Poetry Things Only You Can See / Shira Simchon / Poetry Dear Death / Grace Hidary / Poetry The Non-Poem Poem / Albert Terzi / Poetry Reality / Rochelle Hafif / Poetry Goodbye / Raquel Oved / Poetry No Place Like Home / Frieda Maleh Now or Never / Yael Frechter / Poetry Memories / Elie Esses / Poetry The Gunshots / Cynthia Jajati / Poetry One by One / Evan Rosenfeld / Poetry Scars / Abigail Tuachi / Poetry My Always Home / Marcelle Sasson / Poetry Sally / Rebecca Coopersmith / Poetry Significance / Elie Esses / Poetry Sidestepping the Trap / Jenny Yazdi / Poetry The Insomniac / Daniel Beyda / Poetry The Kite / Grace Hidary / Poetry Guilt / Rachel Lincer / Poetry Persistence / Alyza Anderson / Poetry Tik Tok / Virginia Oved / Poetry Immortality / Joseph Kamkhatchi / Poetry Waiting / Rachelle Beyda / Poetry

Void

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Art 173 Don’t Leave / Rose Sternberg 174 Disconnect / Sarit Alkaada 176 Pride / Arlyne Jemal 178 7 Different Men / Joy Cattan 180 Lonely / Sarah Abramson 180 Emptiness / Alyza Anderson 182 The Void in my Life / Orly Alchkifati, Marcelle Cohen,

Danielle Tawil, Esther Spiegel 183 Paradox / Mimi Sultan 184 Mission to Neptune / Sheila Levy 188 Perspective / Allie Saada 190 You Are Not There / Tami Cohen

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Happy Self / Arlyne Jemal Time for School / Joy Cattan Mother Nature / Tami Cohen Arnold / Allie Saada Such Is Life / Arlyne Jemal Distorted Portraits / Joy Cattan Knot In My Stomach / Yael Frechter This Is Me / Jacquelyn Mann Loyal Friends / Orly Alchkifati I Never Saw it Again / Michael Gammal Rebellion / Leor Yazdi Crossroads / Bobbie Beyda

Elements | Explanation of Theme

Part of the human condition is to feel intensely, to feel strongly, or to not feel at all. It’s what makes us human. It’s what allows us to connect with those around us. Through love, through hate, through sadness, through tears, we are able to understand what it is to be mortal. These emotions keep us grounded. Just so, each of the five elements of life: earth, water, air, fire and void are connected to this human condition in their own unique way.

With one seed, a shining sun and a drop of rain, Earth is growing. Earth represents the development and growth of a person in personality, intelligence, courage and independence.

People grow and change everyday; they overcomes fears, go on adventures, and discover who and what they want to be. Like the earth, we all have roots that vary in shape and size, and make us each unique. The earth is where we come from, the backstories that precede our lives and all that we choose to do with them.

Nothing is clearer than water. It symbolizes the logic and common sense within each human being. Our feelings are a flowing river of cool, clear, fresh, and calm water. It might rage in a storm, but in the end it stays within its course. Under extreme rage, pressure and heat, we evaporate. Our emotions resurface through the precipitation and tears that stream down our face, but once we reflect, we see clearly what was under the surface. Then, like water, we move on and continue our course through life’s cycle.

A vital ingredient in life to maintain survival is air. It’s constant, yet no one can see or feel it. It provides life, gracing us with the ability to live, yet we have no way to thank it. But air is more than a sense of serenity. It is freedom. Air is the feeling of wind in your hair as you run. It’s when you wake up giddy because you know it will be a good day. It‘s when you feel as though you can accomplish anything. Air is when you know no boundaries. Air gives us the ability to think, feel, live and breathe.

Fire is forever suffering under a state of contradiction between love and hate. What these emotions have in common is that both are consuming forces. The emotions are so strong, they rage and fight to escape. It is the passion we feel burning deep in our souls, whether it’s the desire to have something or to be far from it. Fire is an unpredictable flame that sucks in the oxygen we require to breathe, but also warms us in our time of need. Fire destroys all that it touches, and yet, we would not be able to survive without it. Similarly, emotions like love can make you feel whole, but also the pain it causes can tear you apart. We spark the flame, but we can’t control whether we are burned or saved.

Void is the feeling of the emptiness in the world. A sense of sadness that consumes everything and everyone. Void is the dirt beneath the ground, covering the bodies of our souls.

The bodies of people we’ve loved who have abruptly hurt us or left us with a constant feeling of emptiness. We often pretend the sadness isn’t there, hoping our acting will make the reality go away. But, most importantly, without the darkness in the world, we would not value the light.

Without void, the elements would not be appreciated to their fullest extent.

Earth, water, air, fire and void. If we aren’t our emotions, who are we? If we don’t feel, then are we really human?

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Asymmetry Sarah Frastai Papel Sculpture, Photoshop

Philosophy of Publication/Colophon Jaclyn Pahuskin Pegasus is a magazine that represents the literary and artistic talent of our students at the Yeshivah of Flatbush.

Writers, philosophers, dreamers, painters, photographers, idealists, leaders, sculptors, poets, readers and designers walk through our hallways every single day. This publication celebrates the diversity, beauty and talent that our students possess.

The pubication submission policy is open to all students from 9th through 12th grade. The editors select which writing pieces are published through an analysis of the originality, creativity, purpose, appeal and connection to theme. Additionally, editors also select which art pieces are published based on the composition, contrast, techinque, visual aesthetics, as well as the connection to the theme. Work is accepted all year long and students are highly encouraged to submit to Pegasus@flatbush.org weekly. Faculty and community members are encouraged to submit work, but there is a limit on how many pieces we select for the publication. Literary editors are told to edit work for gramatical and punctuation errors and not to alter the content of the piece.

Pegasus 2019 was printed by Advanced Copy Center on East 12th Street in Brooklyn, NY. The 218 page, 7.25” x 9” book was printed on 70# laser paper. The cover was printed on 100# gloss coated cover stock. Pegasus 2019 was created using Adobe InDesign CC 2018.

The font family used was Myriad. This is a school funded publication.

There were 160 copies printed and distributed to the contributors and their families, the high school Administration, English and Arts departments, the Executive office of the Yeshivah and lay leaders. Additional copies were available in the school library for other faculty and students.

Thank you to all the contributors this year.

To participate in next year’s publication, please email Pegasus@flatbush.org or see Ms. Pahuskin in room 202, Ms. Cohen in room 205 or Mr. Novetsky in the Art Room to get involved.

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Contributors Kal Abed Linda Abramson Alyza Anderson Jenna Ashkenazie Priscilla Baranoff Eric Ben-Shlomo Rachel Bernstein Daniel Beyda Rachelle Beyda Freddy Chazanoff Sarah Cheney Steven Chetrit Adina Cohen Renee Cohen Rebecca Coopersmith Frieda Dabah Tyler Davidovich Yvette Dayon Eli Durzieh Rebecca Dweck Elie Esses Lynn Franco David Guy Lillian Haddad Claudine Hadef Rochelle Hafif Betty Hidary David Hidary Grace Hidary Norma Hizami Cynthia Jajati Jacob Jakubov Joseph Kamkhatchi Jacob Khalili Nicole Levy Rachel Lincer

Joyce Louz Barbara Melamed Bonnie Melamed Chen Menashe Esther Mizrachi Lenore Mizrachi Nicole Muravsky Raquel Oved Virginia Oved Evan Rosenfeld Natalie Ryba Albert Saad Jessica Saadia Ralph Sarway Marcelle Sasson Shelley Shamah Shira Simchon Marcy Sultan Monica Sultan Morris Tawil Abigail Tuachi Katriella Weingarten Noam Weinstock Jenny Yazdi Shella Yazdi

Sarah Abramson Orly Alchikifati Sarit Alkaada Alyza Anderson Celia Banbahji Ness Bawabeh Bobbie Beyda Jack Bibi Joy Cattan Marcelle Cohen Mimi Cohen Tami Cohen Jack H. Dweck Joshua Dweck Simone Dweck Morris Esquenazi Joseph Ezon Yael Frechter Alan Frastai Michael Gammal Betty Greenberg Rochelle Hafif Yvette Halfon Gabrielle Hershowitz Joshua Idy Arlyne Jemal Sheila Levy Jacquelyn Mann Barbara Melamed Nissim Mishan Rafi Nemet Jacqueline Rabih Allie Saada Selim Sabbagh Zoe Sabbagh

Barbara Salama Rachel Sanders Ralph Sarway Shelley Shamah Esther Spiegel Rose Sternberg Mimi Sultan Stephanie Tarrab Danielle Tawil Leor Yazdi

Editors Writers Artists

Sarah Shiran Dagmy Shlomie Katash Chen Menashe Raquel Oved Rose Sternberg Katriella Weingarten

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arth 14

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Grow As We Go Shelley Shamah Acrylic Paint

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Texture Tami Cohen

Scanned fabrics, Photoshop

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Alone

Steven Chetrit I wandered lonely as a cloud On the empty plain, With nothing in sight for miles Beside green everywhere, everywhere.

Walking and walking alone for a while Until I got lost in my thoughts And the loneliness finally disappeared.

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AB Ness Bawabeh Canon Rebel

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32° Celia Banbahji Canon Rebel

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Garden Mimi Sultan Illustrator

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Did He Ever?

Shelley Shamah Halfway between California and New York, He had seen me.

He winked, unashamed.

His voice compelled me forwardYou know I love you.

Five years of wonderOf crushed flowers and discarded favors, Of confusion and a dozen migraines.

He glared tragically into my eyes, I never loved you I’m sorry I never loved you But I’m trying to, he said, I’ll be back, I said.

I’m going, Go ahead.

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Asymmetry Jack Bibi

Paper Sculpture, Photoshop

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The Flower Pot Lenore Mizrachi

The flower in the pot Is not as beautiful as she was The December reflected on her She does not bloom; Yes, she is getting old, But her appearance is still lovely As she brought us smiles That will be there forever Even after her petals fall off And her pink hue turns brown.

I caught a firefly in a jar Never wanting to let it go I was captivated by such a phenomenal small creature A creation of God that carries the sun when there is darkness.

I made a promise to keep it safe Vowing we will be friends forever Although once I awoke the next day and picked up the jar My friend was gone And its exotic unique light that used to flash was gone And so was my friend.

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Overcoming 1943 Renee Cohen

On my secret radio, we would gather Hearing the newest law “No benches, no buses, no cinemas, no pools” Alright, its bad But not so bad At least I have my school In school, they kicked me out Telling me I can’t come anymore Alright it’s bad But not so bad At least I have my friends My friends just joined Hitler Youth They called me nasty words While throwing garbage towards me Alright its bad But not so bad At least I have my mother’s yummy food “Our meager ration cards are done,” My mom announced at dinner time With ravenous stomachs, we went to bed Alright its bad But not so bad At least I have my home

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The awful SS came They took away my home, my bed, my clothes They took everything Alright, its bad What should we do?

My mom says at least we have our family We arrived and were separated With tears, I walked alone Alright its bad But I will survive I must see my family again

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It’s All a Blur Joseph Ezon Canon Rebel

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The Sun

Steven Chetrit Long strolls in the sun-that’s what’s good for the mind: admiring the rays going through the cracks leaving shadows across the tree lined path.

There is a Light Morris Tawil

There is a light in the dark, Bright and just and kind, Though it may fade, It will never abandon you, Because the grass is always greener, On the other side, And although people may hate you, They are jealous of what you have, Follow me to the meadow, Where the bee cannot sting you, And you cannot be hurt, Follow me to the meadow, Because there is always a light.

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Pollen of a Flower Alan Frastai iPhone 8

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Thoughts To My Love Natalie Ryba

I believe the best things in life are free.

I find immense pleasure in the small things.

Whitman said “Every hour of the day and night is an unspeakably perfect miracle.” These small miracles keep us going to find true love.

True love keeps my mind sound, and my breaths deep.

I know in my heart that life without a soulmate is barren.

Quite often I spend dusk under a sycamore tree, to quiet all the noises of the day.

Then the stillness of the sun, soothes the beat of my heart and walks me alone into the night. I’m no longer bitter about losing you because I know one day we’ll find each other again.

Earth · Pegasus 2019

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Inside Out Joy Cattan Acrylic on Canvas

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Mirror Image Shelley Shamah iPhone

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This is Nuts! Rafi Nemet Canon Rebel

Rocks Jacqueline Rabih Canon Rebel

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When I Go to See the Sky Tonight Nicole Muravsky

When I go to see the sky tonight— That, and the moon neighboring— That, and the moon, and all the stars— And all the planets vast— Be sure to appreciate—should I bless Some clarity the darkness could shine— That, and the moon, and all the stars Which the universe holds.

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What Is Your Legacy? Nissim Mishan Photoshop

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Never Surrender Betty Hidary

It was November 9th 1938 and I was trying to comprehend what could have caused so much hate I now know this was the moment the end had begun to this day I try to fathom what we could’ve done I want to understand why we “deserved to die” I want to understand what was going through your mind so please let me know what made you feel so superior and how in your twisted mind that meant we had to be inferior what gave you the right to take away ours how dumb was mankind to have given you all that power I want to understand although I know I never could I can’t just move on although I know I probably should because even after all your hatred, detestation, determination after all your concentration on our extermination I’m still standing here today free to speak my truth with my nation growing larger we will educate our youth we will never forget and always remember We are the Jews and we will never surrender.

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Her Story Arlyne Jemal Canon Rebel

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War

Priscilla Baranoff Don’t get excited, I’m trying to think.

The quiet house was so empty.

Someone, a friend The only one I knew, Fell down in the field With no escape.

People worry War, helicopters, daredevils Miraculously Stopped at the same time.

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Lizard Jack Bibi

Scanned fabrics, Photoshop

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Where I’m From Adina Cohen

I am from Arizona from the snakes and scorpions I am from a country house Hot, quiet, in the middle of nowhere I am from cacti, Saguaro flowers, mountains Amid red-rock desert speckled with mesquite I’m from India and Christianity, from being called Sudhir and a husband, From the love of literature and science I’m from scalpels And neurosurgery I’m from cancer and pain I’m from happiness instilled by my daughter Elizabeth Acadia-Cady From the brutal hours of a typical 48 hour surgery and dealing with my patients From my deathbed as I slowly slip away from life From my beautiful wife Lucy and the memories forever in my mind

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Le’Veon Bell Selim Sabbagh Color Pencils

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Aftermath Joshua Idy Canon Rebel

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Only in a Fairy Tale

Rebecca Coopersmith I want to be like Peter Pan Never growing up and staying a child forever And time frozen in a single place To imagine that I have superpowers Flying through the air and thinking happy thoughts Tinker Bell would be by my side ready with her pixie dust To be a leader of a group of kids And every day will be full with pure fun and excitement Having the time of our lives with no curfew And adventure lurking around every corner To have duels with pirates and give them a taste of their own medicine With pretend sword fights and everything is a game that can be won And no one gets hurt or dies because everything is just pretend I want to believe that there is an enchanted forest Waiting for me under captive from an evil witch And the witch will be defeated by me With a magic wand won after a long quest And I will have an army of mythological creatures by my side

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A majestic unicorn, a proud Pegasus, a fire-breathing dragon All ready to help me fight for peace and harmony I will be given a crown of glowing flowers and shiny jewels I will be wearing a dress made from the softest silk And the finest lace bathed in an ethereal light I will be given fairy wings to fly to bright blue sky And aid anyone who’s in trouble and distress I will gain medals of courage and honor From the magnificent enchantress of the forest And all will be well And I can continue to wish to be someone else And when I could be someone else I’d be Belle She is a regular, everyday girl like me She has brown hair like me She has fun and interesting quirks like me She adores to read books day and night She yearns for the adventure found in books just like I do And she finds true love and breaks a curse

With a little help from a magical castle and its bizarre inhabitants Everything I want my life to be My fairy tale ending will have some changes I would never be a damsel in distress Never waiting for a prince to rescue me I can rescue myself, thank you very much If anything I’ll save him from a terrifying beast I would rather have a handsome prince aid me through my troubles Rather than keeping me in confinement alone in a dark, cold cage He will help me and I’ll help him And we’ll work together for peace and love in our kingdom

be a perfect mess For good things to happen and nothing should ever go wrong For smiles everywhere to push away the darkness that confines us I want to stay naïve and believe That everyone is kind hearted and good That no one wishes harm or pain on another That no one can die and leave me too soon But I know that it isn’t possible And I know that it’s just a fantasy Because just like Peter Pan and magical creatures It only happens in fairy tales.

I want to stay young and dream Of being a superhero with powers to save people and creatures Of having a trusty sidekick and good friends who will always be there for me Of my true love who will take away my problems and me give freedom I want to stay a child and wish For a happy ending and life to

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Morning Visitor Simone Dweck iPhone

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Waves

Rebecca Dweck Your waves curl like a beckoning finger, only to end with a colossal splash that sends salt water flying.

The way you feel in the air; molecules of heat pushed by a soft breeze, the condensation is magnetic to my skin.

Your soft sand enveloping my toes, like a blanket caresses my body.

The rush of emotion dawns on me as my eyes take in the most alluring scene, your arms spread out so wide they can defy infinity.

The edge of my mouth tugs up as my lids close ever so slightly.

The rhythm of your ocean, an enticingly soft but confident sound.

Your clear blue body, glistening in the sunlight: a sapphire bed of crystals.

The salty smell attaches to my nose, demanding another breath.

The sight of the sun peaking through the clouds, like a child’s face breaking into a grin of pure happiness, to say hello to a fellow creation in this world.

Oh, Beach, how you’ve captivated me.

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Waffle Jack H. Dweck Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Floating on the Perfect Wave Marcelle Sasson

I’m on my board The wind going through my hair As I wait for the perfect wave I get this feeling While on my board Start paddling I hear As the ocean whispers to me Start paddling Faster and faster I go deeper into the ocean To meet the perfect wave As I turn to catch the wave The adrenaline kicks in Faster and faster I paddle And catch the wave On my board I have these feelings Like I’m floating When on the perfect wave

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Don’t Limit Me Arlyne Jemal Canon Rebel, Photoshop

Point of View Arlyne Jemal Canon Rebel

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The Key

Frieda Dabbah The key can open anything at all From a house to a room to a safety deposit box Or even a bathroom stall This key can open all different kinds of locks The most important thing about this key Is that no matter where it is-Even if it’s stuck in a tree-It can open the lock to a heart that is his The one true love of my life The one with the beautiful eyes Who will one day make me his wife Is with whom the key lies The person whom I’ll love all day and all night To find a love like that I will always fight

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Through the Shadows Sarah Abramson Canon Rebel

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God

David Guy My sympathy is as vast as the galaxy, My passion as broad; The more I’m feared The more I am loved, For I am everlasting

Money Shmoney Raquel Oved

Expenses have rapidly been increasing As known, the large income can wheel in a wife But the value of money is decreasing and it just can’t guarantee you a good life.

So I suggest that you begin releasing All of the tension from this dumb money strife And embark on a large journey for yourself So leave the checks and your money on the shelf

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I am Israel Tami Cohen

Resourced Images, iPhone, Photoshop

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Earth

My Past is my Present Barbara Melamed

I am the eldest of three From a house filled with dance parties and jokes I am from a father who reads the same princess stories over and over Just so his daughters can fall asleep I am from Saba’s fried potatoes Filled with oil and spices Made with the recipe I never got to learn I’m from countless family movie nights From lessons of kindness over everything I’m from Israel and Syria And Persia and Iran I’m from Hashem Who always listens And is the reason why I am I’m from coffee spills And just about any spills From parents who work hard day and night To ensure I get the best life has to offer All around me I have family and friends And happiness and laughter I’m from these people and these moments Who make me who I am and continue to teach me who I want to be

Earth · Pegasus 2019

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Ant

Albert Saad This is the story of an ant, Who never said that he can’t.

Instead he worked extremely hard, Towards any goal in his yard.

So when winter slowly neared, It was hunger that ant feared.

He worked all season and collected, So that his family would be protected.

He stored piles upon piles of nutritious seed, But with no intention of any greed.

He planned to share with every friend, Until that fateful day came to an end.

See ant went out a final time, to see if there was anything left to find.

But when little ant returned, He saw his nest had been overturned.

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Earth

His friends and family stole every crumb, Not believing ant would share this income.

“He wouldn’t mind if I took just a few,” But now ant was left with nothing to do.

Ant couldn’t believe the sweat of his brow, Meant absolutely nothing now.

And from then he made a swear, To get revenge and not spare.

So ant took out his butcher knife And killed the children before the wife.

Each “brother” looked on in horror Screaming they only meant to borrow.

And after each ant was dead, With a smile ant went to bed.

And outside their bodies grew cold, But there was warmth and food inside ant’s household.

Earth · Pegasus 2019

41

Crowded Allie Saada Graphite and Collage

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Earth

Life

Joseph Kamkhatchi Life is like a boxer coming at you with a punch it will be hard and you may fall but you must get up and find your strength to fight back.

Inspiration

Evan Rosenfeld The feeling that drives us forward.

That helps us push through.

That gives us the extra boost.

Anyone can draw a picture.

But only the inspired, can create a masterpiece.

Earth ¡ Pegasus 2019

43

Home Mimi Sultan

Resourced Images, Photoshop

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Earth

I Can and I Will Rachel Lincer

“We’re almost here!” says Mom. My heart starts beating.

I’m so nervous I don’t think I can do this.

As I’m putting on my equipment I realize I have to conquer my fear.

“Make sure your buckles are tightened,” the instructor says.

A rush of excitement flows through me, but at the same time I’m petrified.

3000 feet above ground?

No way.

I rush to remove my gear, but am stopped by my dad telling me he’ll go with me.

He’s insisting I go and I have no other option.

Before I know it, I am standing on a high pedestal when I suddenly feel a light push.

It feels amazing the way the wind is rushing past me.

Towards the end, I put my legs ahead of me and stop short.

I did it.

I overcame my fear of ziplining.

Earth · Pegasus 2019

45

Artist’s Garden Sarah Abramson Canon Rebel

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Pegasus 2019 · Earth

World Wall Shelley Shamah Post-its

Earth ¡ Pegasus 2019

47

Déjà Vu Ralph Sarway iPhone

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Pegasus 2019 · Earth

Perseverance Rochelle Hafif

With sun scorching in the air, And no sign of water near, I thought my roots would die.

With birds swooping down for seeds, And insects devouring my pollen for their own needs, I thought my roots would die.

With farmers bashing through my stems, And humans prancing on my leaves, I thought my roots would die.

Despite the hardships And the obstacles, My roots did not die.

Earth ¡ Pegasus 2019

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Water 50

Pegasus 2019 · Water

Overflowing Allie Saada Acrylic Paint

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

51

Blue Gabrielle Hershowitz Photoshop

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Pegasus 2019 · Water

Blue

Sarah Cheney It’s the fifth color in the rainbow.

The color of the face of the daytime sky, And of a pool of water But the most beautiful shade Is found in the color of my father’s eyes.

Water · Pegasus 2019

53

Don’t Laugh

Barbara Melamed

We laugh, we cry, we feel until we die.

Emotion. Expression. It’s the outlet to our lives.

So when stripped of that, what do we do?

I’m sitting around my kitchen table, As comfort and happiness fills the air.

We share the hysterical stories of our youth.

She’s talking and she ends her story with, “And then I tripped and spilled my drink all over her.”

Laughter fills the room as we all laugh in unison.

In this moment I feel safe, at ease.

Crazy how one minute, One sentence, Can affect everything.

“What was that noise,” she said obnoxiously, “never do that again.”

She was talking to me.

About my laugh. My expression of happiness.

I overthink it all. The hair, The clothes, The actions, The looks.

But never have I thought about my laugh.

At least until now.

My smile fades as laughter fills the room again.

Except now, I have nothing to contribute.

I’m silent.

My oasis has been invaded by the thoughts of others.

My mind is racing.

How didn’t I think of this?

I’m me. There’s always something wrong with me.

But I can’t show her it hurts.

“Haha” I said, in a monotone. Showing no emotion at all.

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For a month I hid that laugh.

Each time expressing my feelings with a foreign sound.

That comfortable air that I felt with laughter Vanished, replaced with nothing.

Think before you speak.

You don’t know how your words will affect others.

You don’t know that your one comment sparks thousands of interpretations in their heads.

Each one negative.

And you, the receiving end, I’ve been there.

I’ve thought about it.

I’ve told myself I’m stupid for caring, yet I never stopped caring.

We’re human. Words hurt.

When people take your safe place, it hurts.

They knock you down, and all you want to do is build up a wall.

One stronger than before.

But you are who you are.

You can’t change your laugh.

You can’t change your name.

You can’t change your looks.

So embrace it.

“What’s that noise,” she said. “It’s me.”

Water · Pegasus 2019

55

Vast Shelley Shamah Oil Paint on Canvas

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

Texture of Life Barbara Melamed Canon Rebel

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

57

Night Diving Joshua Idy Canon Rebel

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Pegasus 2019 · Water

The Couple

Linda Abramson They walk hand in hand Unaware of the world around them They walk past the grief, sorrow, and pain, oblivious Because they have each other Rain trickles off the awnings The smell of dew travels around Yet the only thing on their minds Is their love for one another

Two Faced

Jessica Saadia Look at me Tell me what you see You think you know me But guess what I have a whole universe inside me With constant changing tides And mountains that touch the sky So don’t tell me you know me Because you only see the surface Of my world

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

59

Lucid Joshua Dweck

Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Pegasus 2019 · Water

Dark Day

Virginia Oved O sorrowful day How death weeps upon us No hope No pride Just death and sadness Now heaven has all of her So why do you cry?

Dry your tears and pin rosemary O sad! Sad, sad, sad day, Goodbye Why do you exist?

If only to fade away Where is your purpose?

Water · Pegasus 2019

61

Looks That Kill Yael Frechter Resourced Images, Photoshop

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

Heritage

Raquel Oved Poland, a life altering trip for me.

Increasing my knowledge in many ways Opening a new lens for me to see Which will be imprinted on with me always.

The prices were high and the flight was long, Powerful emotions were quite a threat.

But I felt the need to learn and stayed strong This trip is not something I’d ever regret.

Rather I’d like to hold the knowledge and images in my frontal lobe.

I won’t forget, even after college I will share with those all over the globe

Water · Pegasus 2019

63

Claustrophobia Sheila Levy Resourced Images, Photoshop

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

I, Too, Exist Men Lynn Franco

I am the feminine woman.

They send me to the kitchen When the men arrive, But I laugh, I stay, And I listen.

Tomorrow, I’ll be wiser When company comes, Nobody’ll dare, Ask me “Do the dishes,” Then.

Anyway, They’ll realize how great I am, And they’ll be ruefulI, too, am a person.

Water · Pegasus 2019

65

Planet Jack H. Dweck Canon Rebel

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Pegasus 2019 · Water

My Siddur

Claudine Hadef My connection, My mornings, days and nights.

Your Hebrew words lead my life.

My mouth moves to the prayer at the speed of light.

Without you I have no right To ask, to beg, to tremble and pray.

I pray with you for the things I want everyday.

For happiness, health and family.

No matter where, No matter when, Reading your words connect me to Hashem.

In a big minyan I’m forever grateful That others can read your words too No matter how big or small To pray for things wanted by all.

My siddur, Pink and carved with my name.

By opening your cover you start my day.

Down to the last thing I say.

When your words leave my mouth, I go to sleep without making a sound.

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

67

Smothered to be Saved Yvette Halfon Resourced Images, Illustrator

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

Kippah

Ralph Sarway You remind me of my forefathers Always above me You come off before bed Get on before school For some, you are just a piece of fabric To me, you are a symbol of God You come in all different shapes and sizes From small to extra large You stand for heritage Small for Ashkenaz to extra large for Israelis Kippa, You will always be part of my life

Peer Pressure Raquel Oved

Do not fall under the pressure of your peer They can’t force you to drink that beer You have to think Before you take the drink I hope that this information is clear

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

69

Under My Umbrellas Joy Cattan Color Pencils, Sharpie, Pen

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

The Boy

Lillian Haddad The love has entered my heart, The sadness has taken over my eyes, The anger has grown in my chest rapidly, Those emotions of mine flow out of me, like water down a river.

Pain you are Joy you are, You are the many emotions inside of me, All feeling- so deep- you are That I experience all the time

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

71

Snow Day Arlyne Jemal Canon Rebel

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Pegasus 2019 · Water

Cry Me A River Shelley Shamah

They all think I’m fine.

They think I’m over it.

I’m over the heartache, The feeling I wouldn’t wish, Not on my worst enemy.

The feeling of a hole That grows rampantly Inside my chest Where a heart used to dance.

I’m over the absence of effort.

The chasing that I thought would subside And be returned in favor.

The ten percent I got And the ninety percent I gave.

Never balanced but Always one hundred percent love.

At the slightest dip in my smile, The smallest slouch in my stride, They smirk and roll their eyes.

You’re fine, I breathe.

You’re over it, I assure.

Cry me a river, they say.

And so I do.

Water · Pegasus 2019

73

Strength is Power Virginia Oved

You may try to put me down With crude, discouraging words, You may want to hurt me But still, like a lion, I’ll find strength.

Does my personality get you jealous?

Why are you picking on me?

‘Cause I’ve got confidence Bringing the life to every party.

Just like dogs and birds, With the happiness they bring, Just like sunlight on a dark day, Still I’ll be strong.

Did it please you to see me hurting?

Feeling like the whole world collapsed?

Shoulders falling like rain, Words weakening my soul?

Does my pride offend you?

Don’t you judge yourself based on me ‘Cause I got it all like I won the lottery All in me.

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You may try to bring me down, You may give me dirty looks, You may try to fill me with hate, But still, like a storm, I’ll find strength.

Does my looks make you envy me?

Does it upset you That I am like a magnet Attracting the good in people?

Out of all this pain you caused me I am strong Up from all the hate I am strong.

Leaving behind all the pain you’ve caused I am strong Into a new life filled with happiness I am strong.

Bringing everyone to peace, I am filled with pride.

I am strong.

I am strong.

I am strong.

Water · Pegasus 2019

75

Vital Stephanie Tarrab

Resurced Image, Illustrator

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

My Dear Diary Joyce Louz

Here lies my life between two covers My thoughts and feelings My hopes and memories Every heartbreak and every breakthrough All written on paper Jotted onto lines Quickly summed up in the back of a coffee shop Or poured out details in the corner of my bedroom It all lies here between my fingers In the grip of my hands My life between two covers

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

77

Splash! Arlyne Jemal

Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

What Went Wrong?

Jenna Ashkenazie

I see her in the background, Holding his hand.

That should be me.

I should be holding her hand, Not him.

I feel the rain dripping down the back of my neck, And I think to myself, Why? What happened?

What went wrong?

What does he have that I don´t.

Seeing them together, Is like someone driving a knife through my heart.

It feels like I am falling down an endless pit of pain.

Every second watching them together, I go farther down the pit.

But somehow, I can not look away.

But I also know, That this is for the best.

I just want her to be happy.

And if she is happy with him, Then I will just have to learn to live with that, And figure out a way to move on.

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

79

The Endless Path Alan Frastai iPhone 8

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Pegasus 2019 · Water

Life Lesson

Raquel Oved We live in a dirty land So make sure to wash your hand Especially after playing in the sand Or practicing with the band I know it takes some time But it’s worth it to get rid of the slime And wash the blood from the crime Ooh this just so happens to rhyme!

Anyways, make sure to use some soap Your hands will smell dope And you’ll be able to shake hands with the pope Be dedicated to cleanliness And get rid of the messiness!

Water · Pegasus 2019

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Walking to Water Rachel Sanders Resourced Images, Illustrator

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

Misunderstood Norma Hizami

Grown-ups never understand anything by themselves, Unless we are constantly crying or screaming, To prove them wrong And it is tiresome for us to always explain things to them So sometimes we just give up And nod.

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

83

Colors of Winter Barbara Melamed Canon Rebel

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Water

Dear Summer Evelyn Lincer

Dear Summer, Where have you gone?

I have been waiting for you for six months now You told me you were coming back soon It’s been six months.

Life without you is hard, It’s cold and lonely If you don’t come home soon, I’m going to have to move on, Without you And onto someone else.

Goodbye summer, The girl you left behind

Water · Pegasus 2019

85

Air

Earthquake Deborah Coopersmith Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Floating Yael Frechter Resourced Images, Photoshop

Air · Pegasus 2019

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Lines Betty Greenberg Illustrator

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Air

Breakups are Lessons Rachel Bernstein

If black was white, and there were no broken hearts, And sharks were nice, and the truth was told, Relationships wouldn’t drift apart,--And there wouldn’t be a fresh start, For more fruits to enter shopping carts.

I wouldn’t be I. If the heart was smarter than the brain, and now was hence, And the future was connected to the past, and no was yes Their argument would become intense, And being with you would make sense, But love would be falsely immense, You wouldn’t be you.

If faces didn’t define people, and love lasted forever, And emptiness isn’t a feeling, and tears were not salty, Life would be painless,---But the fruits would be tasteless, And everything around us would be shapeless, We wouldn’t be we.

Air · Pegasus 2019

89

Air City Selim Sabbagh

Paper Sculpture, Photoshop

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Pegasus 2019 · Air

Cloud

Eli Durzieh Let the cloud hug you Let the cloud kill you With its strong windy breath Let the cloud sing you to sleep Let the cloud make you fly The cloud makes miracles The cloud sings to you in the night And everyone loves the cloud

Air ¡ Pegasus 2019

91

Kaleidoscope Orly Alchkifati iPhone 8 Plus, Photoshop

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Three Simple Words Monica Sultan

“I love you” strong words I should have said the truth behind them overwhelmed and scared taking the leap I didn’t say it but I should have

answered earlier called a minute before ran to make it I would have been there I would have stopped it I could have saved him I didn’t make it but I could have

more minutes more time given to him I didn’t do it but I should have I visited and saw the pain and loss I caused it I left him I walked out I should have gone back I didn’t do it but I should have loss and pain hit me like a brick why’d I let my fear control me I should have called I should have apologized I didn’t do it but I should have

Air · Pegasus 2019

93

Duck, Duck, Goose Jacob Khalili

As a child, I was never allowed to play Duck, Duck, Goose. My father’s disapproval of the game stemmed from a family superstition: circling another person three times, means taking on their sins. As a 17 year old, I don’t get asked to play Duck, Duck, Goose too often, but I wonder if I decide to have children, will I too stop them from playing the game?

A strange dilemma for a high school senior, perhaps, but not for me. The skills of questioning, investigating, and debating in the classroom have become part of my daily routine. A lesson on the Industrial Revolution has led to continued conversations over lunch about the current AI revolution. A discussion in AP Economics on the minimum wage has led to follow up emails about the ramifications of the choices made by regulators, researchers, authors and even me. In these discussions, I am usually the voice of logic.

That’s why it seems especially out of character that I would even consider continuing this irrational tradition and not allow my children to play Duck, Duck, Goose.

But how could I allow my kids to play the game? My father escaped from Iran on a camel, at the age of 14, fleeing religious persecution. He did not take anything with him except for his cultural beliefs, faith, and traditions. As his eldest son, how could I disrespect him and disregard the sacrifices he made, just because I don’t see the logic?

But seriously, forbidding a children’s game? What’s next, don’t sing “London Bridge is Falling Down” because the Brooklyn Bridge will collapse? Will I need to write a note to a nursery teacher to excuse my child from playing Duck, Duck, Goose? The best option might be faking it: “Kids, play all the Duck, Duck, Goose you want, just not in front of Grandpa.” However, teaching my children to disrespect and deceive their grandparents does not sit well with me.

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Often, when I have difficulty making a decision, I refer to what I know. Thus, I tried to resolve this conflict in the context of Computer Science. A classic example in Machine Learning is the dog/cat classifier. The classifier is not shown only black cats and only German shepherds because then it will overfit and perform poorly on other examples of cats and dogs. Rather, the classifier is given a diverse group of cats and dogs in varying environments. The algorithm is forced to work and pick out what is common among all the groups in order to figure out what are the most important characteristics in identifying a dog or cat. It is the many different pictures that lead the algorithm to be more accurate, more functional, and successful.

Admittedly, my children are not algorithms and permission to play a game of Duck, Duck, Goose will not alter their lives dramatically. Banning the game while kids around them can play the game, will expose them to a slightly different experience than that of their peers from a young age. My intention is that through these different experiences, their biological neural networks will gain the ability to learn the important factors they need for making a decision. I am making a conscious choice to ban Duck, Duck, Goose not because it is a tradition but because it can lead them to a richer and more nuanced life.

If the superstition is true, my kids will thank me for it, but I don’t plan on mentioning my aversion to certain children’s games on my first dates either.

Air · Pegasus 2019

95

Initials Sheila Levy Illustrator

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Air

Lonely

Bonnie Melamed I’d like to say I’m OK, but that’d be a lie. I know you saw me crying, and you didn’t want to pry. I stood there wailing and barely inhaling while you left me behind. You’ve had your peace now, but what about me? I still miss the time when we sat with our fingers intertwined. I know that asking for you back would be an unreasonable plea. Since the reason our relationship came to a halt, was entirely my fault.

I came to explain myself, but you simply denied and didn’t reply.

Unlike me, you stayed strong and didn’t comply. I still want to talk to you because I can’t imagine a life without you- one completely redesigned. Being without you is not like being free, Because when I’m without you I feel completely undefined. When I’m without you, my heart burns like its third degree. For as long as I can remember I told you all the secrets I kept locked in my vault. Being without you hurts so much, it should be considered assault.

Air · Pegasus 2019

97

A 6 Million Shaped Void Shelley Shamah Watercolor

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Air

Demon

Jacob Jakubov Tried to drown my inner demons But it’s too late It already won, checkmate It got through And started to work its voodoo I swear I’ll do anything for it to leave Everyone thinks I’m crazy And I’m starting to believe That these demons Are all just make-believe But when it talks, I can hear it When it breathes, I can feel it And If I close my eyes, I swear I can see it It locked me up I’m a prisoner with no cell Feels like a fire with no hell It tells me what to do like I’m a puppet and its show and tell I try but I can’t rebel I scream and shout, to no avail Officially given up I’ve waved the white flag demon For my time is up

Air · Pegasus 2019

99

Defying Gravity Celia Banbahji Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Lost in Time Yael Frechter

Thinking and hoping He yearns to know the truth Longing to see far into the galaxy.

Doubting his decisions He walks alone Longing to see far into the galaxy.

He wishes for answers His future unknown He longs to see far into the galaxy.

His wish was fulfilled His destiny now known He instantly longs to be far from the galaxy.

Air ¡ Pegasus 2019

101

Vanishing Point Jack Bibi Illustrator

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Air

Hiccups

Katriella Weingarten I was sitting across from the plate of food I had just finished. I smiled at a joke that my sister made that wasn’t funny enough to warrant a real laugh. My mother began to speak about work and I half listened. And then I began to hiccup. I reached for my cup to take a sip of water. I drank three glasses before I realized there was no use drinking another- my hiccups would go away on their own eventually, I just had to wait it out.

That was a year and a half ago. I’m still waiting it out.

Right before my sophomore year I made a decision: I was going to be perfect.

I was going to do well on my tests, do my homework, balance my social life, become a better sister, and have time to work and volunteer. I wanted to be “That girl who’s good at everything.” So I did it, I became perfect.

My grades went from B’s to A’s and I switched all of my classes to honors classes. I had enough time to spend with my friends and family. I tutored and babysat almost every night, and every Saturday I visited a girl with special needs.

I did everything. I was perfect.

On April 18th, 2017 I got the hiccups. At first is was funny to me. Then it became a sick joke. My hiccups were the flaw in my perfection that I couldn’t fix. Of course I have other faults, but those can either be repaired or hidden. My hiccups were an imperfection on display for everybody to see. It was impossible to hide the fact that I wasn’t the ideal version of myself I had become.

I became a robot. I ignored my hiccups despite them being something you can’t ignore. I refused to face the fact that I wasn’t the girl I tried so hard to be.

I answered peoples questions as quickly as I could and in a bored tone. Yes, I have tried drinking water. Yes, it gets annoying. No, holding my breath doesn’t help. Yes, I’ve seen doctors about it. No, I’m not dying. Yes. No. Yes. No. I answered each question praying it would be the last and I wouldn’t have to acknowledge the fact that I was no longer “That girl who does everything.” I was “That girl with the hiccups.”

In front of others I played it off as a joke to mask my insecurity. I cringed inwardly and plastered a smile on my face. Everyone laughed. And then one day I began to hiccup uncontrollably. There was no time between hiccups to eat. No time to sleep. No time to breathe. Everyone stopped laughing.

The next day I forced myself to face the hard truth I had avoided for so long.

My hiccups are a part of me that I can not change. They are a flaw that I can not hide. They are the fault that I have come to accept.

Now when people make jokes about my hiccups I laugh. A real laugh- one that reaches my eyes because I know that my flaws make me who I am. I don’t need to hide my faults and try to be perfect. I embrace them.

Air · Pegasus 2019

103

Rainy Day Shelley Shamah Acrylic Paints

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Dear Self

Shira Simchon Dear Self, Be true to yourself, Even when people say otherwise.

Instead of listening to their ugly words listen to the song, that your heart can follow.

The song that will push you forward.

Forward further in life.

Further to your future, even when your heart doesn’t listen.

One day, your heart will listen.

Listen to the song that it has listened to.

Listened to for all these years.

Instead of listening to the people, who have wanted to kill your dreams.

Air ¡ Pegasus 2019

105

Destroy Sarit Alkaada Canon Rebel

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Pegasus 2019 ¡ Air

Love Me

Renee Cohen My hair may be frizzy or flat My body not as skinny as a Barbie My smile may not always be perfectly white and shiny But, this is Me I’m not going to know the answer to every problem I’m not going to Harvard or Princeton I may sometimes seem foolish in the eyes of others But, this is Me Sometimes I’ll want to rave and party At other times, I’ll just want my friends I may even just need to be alone But, this is Me Love me for who I am Not for what you want me to be You are you And this, is me

Air · Pegasus 2019

107

Supercallifragilisticexpialidocious! Barbara Salama Resourced Images, Illustrator

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My Superego Racher Lincer

That voice in my head— It was telling me no, But I was leaning toward yes.

I knew it was wrong, But I couldn’t help it.

All the joy it brought me, The happiness I received, It was as if nothing mattered.

I did it and even though it was a bad decision, I was happy with the outcome.

But then I heard that voice, That voice in my head.

Air · Pegasus 2019

109

Breathe Joshua Dweck Canon Rebel

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Meaningless Memories Marcy Sultan

Glancing over my shoulder at the past I feel a ping of nostalgia My head is flooded with memories There is no way back Growing younger every year What have I done Who have I become The demons of my soul remind me That I am not young anymore I try to stretch out my youth like silly putty But adulthood comes right back to haunt me The rain has ended And the sky is clear The complexity of me has washed away Just like that So sudden Yet so slow I didn’t realize that the clock was ticking Cinderella ran out of time The only thing I have left is my memories Please god don’t take them away from me Soon enough they become a fantasy They are so far away Unimaginable A life without memories Lead me into the heart of an immense darkness

Air · Pegasus 2019

111

Pinwheels Mimi Sultan

Paper Sculpture, Photoshop

112

Pegasus 2019 · Air

Winter

Rachelle Beyda The sun is beaming Wind brushes the leaves past me Winter is coming

You Are My Joy Yvette Dayon

The worst part about growing old Is that I don’t get any ideas anymore I don’t have fun anymore Growing old makes things drab And nothing seems new But now that you have entered my life Things feel different There is joy again Growing old with you Will forever be an adventure

Air · Pegasus 2019

113

Censored

Chen Menashe “Don’t let them see,” my mother would nervously command me, telling me to hide my Star of David necklace, the Jewish star, when we were in unfamiliar places. It wasn’t because she was ashamed; she was scared for our lives. She knew what kind of a world was out there. She knew the stories I was too young to understand. She knew better. Or did she? Is it better to let people censor you and not express your beliefs freely? Is it better to let them win?

Throughout history, minorities have been censored for their appearance or beliefs. Censorship is often used as a tool by repressive authorities to impose their will on society or, moreover, to gain or retain power. It can never be justified.

If it’s censored, I am reading it. It’s fine to dislike or disagree with a book, but just because a book goes against your beliefs doesn’t mean other people shouldn’t read it. Books get censored because they contradict someone’s views. But that person isn’t me.

I should be the one making the decision about what I want to read.

I want the opportunity to understand even the ideas I reject.

For example, as a proud Jew, I want to know Hitler’s thoughts in Mein Kampf. I want to know his reasoning and his ideas. Some people argue that reading Hitler’s words gives him power. I disagree.

It gives me the power of knowledge and clarity. I want to understand a small part of what my people felt under his control.

We’d like to say that all hate speech should be expurgated. In an idealistic society, we wouldn’t even have this problem. But what kind of society would we be? And who can make these decisions? There is no such thing as an unbiased committee to make the decision of what should or shouldn’t be bowdlerized. It’s all according to a particular person’s perspective. Censoring only leads to misconceptions and uproar in communities who feel that their thoughts are being repressed. Every piece of literature can have an aspect with which not everyone agrees. If you feel so strongly against a book, instead of immediately thinking about censoring it, you should educate others on why. Educate them on the flaws in the book and stress why the author wrote it. Banned books can be used as a lesson for us.

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Individuals should make their own decisions about which books they want to read. Which books they want to grasp for inspiration, which books they want to gain insight from, which books they want to disagree with. It’s a personal experience and I should be the one to decide for myself whether a book is worth reading. Because it’s knowledge that can free us from the chains of tyranny.

Moving to America from Israel at a young age, I felt restricted by the language. It was as if I was censored by my lack of voice.

I couldn’t develop any relationships with my peers; I was alone. It was books that gave me freedom. They were my escape from society. They became the reason for my ability to want to succeed.

They gave me a voice to make friends. Books liberate my mind and soul; I can’t think of a world where they would be censored.

My ancestors didn’t have freedom of expression. They had to hide their true beliefs in order to survive. They did what they could to continue their legacies, which also included disguising their identities—their religious beliefs. I am fortunate to live in a world where there is freedom. And I can never allow that freedom to be taken away from me or from anyone else. I will continue to wear my Jewish star proudly, with any book of literature I choose in my hands, refusing to be censored.

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Flight Marcelle Cohen

Crumbled Paper, Photoshop

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Wind Zoe Sabbagh

Resourced Images, Illustrator

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High Contrast Ralph Sarway Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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The Leopard and the Fox Albert Saad There once was a simple leopard, Who followed the lord as his shepherd.

So whenever he saw a human go by, He would not even lend it a passing eye.

But one day he was extremely famished, And out of the shadows the Fox was banished.

He saw Old Leopard licking his chops, And asked what caused him to stop.

Leopard informed him that he didn’t want to be punished, But the fox answered he could be exempt-as if he’d never done it.

“See the punishment will just go to your son, So quickly have lunch, catch him, run!”

Leopard thought this sounded good, So he bounded across the jungle’s wood And as he leapt up in the air, He felt a drop just like a snare.

There was a gaping, empty pit, Which is now where Leopard would forever sit.

And out on top the fox leered, And on the bottom Leopard’s anger seared.

“How could you lie to me dirty fox?

This hole is my punishment which came as a shock.”

But Fox simply said, That “your father punished you instead.”

“See I told him the same thing years ago, But he didn’t care about the consequences you know?”

And now you followed in his steps, So you have to suffer the effects.

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Life’s Air Joseph Ezon Canon Rebel, Photshop

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Whisper in C

Katriella Weingarten Because I was little Things were whispered behind me Never told to my face Because I was little I was told I must always love the chords and the notes And I should dedicate a slice of my heart to the Key of C So I did.

But I got a little less little And the whispers behind me only grew louder and louder And because I was a little less little I realized I loved those notes and those chords Because that’s what the whispers asked of me But deep down I loved some words and some pictures a little bit more But a little part of me still kept that place in my heartThe sliver that was stolen long ago By the Key of C Now I’m not too little.

Now there are no whispers.

Now I know why I was told to love those notes and those chords.

I know that the words and the pictures can be no more.

It might be too late now for the Key of C, I know that.

But at least I know what it means.

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Nature Celia Banbahji Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Fluttering Asymmetry Yael Frechter Paper Sculpture, Photoshop

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Manners

Eric Ben-Shlomo I couldn’t believe my high-school classmates could be so insensitive. Our teacher had invited us to a meal at her house. Before deciding on the date, she asked the class who would attend. Most kids, including myself, raised their hands. Genuinely excited to welcome us to her home, she described the food she was making and how excited her family was for us to join them. I was looking forward to it also. But, I was too naive to realize that not everyone was as excited as I was.

The day before the big event, most of my classmates mentioned to each other that they would not actually be attending. Even worse was that they weren’t planning to inform the teacher. I was shocked and conflicted. Were they really not going to keep their word and not have the courtesy to to tell our teacher? Was I supposed to just go alone? I was extremely disappointed with my classmates. I knew I had to do something, so I stood up said, “ You guys can’t do this.

You need to go. We have to keep our word. We can’t let her down.

At least tell her you won’t be coming.” I really hoped that they would listen. Then I made sure a good friend of mine would pick me up.

That night I felt horrible and was scared to see what would happen the following day.

The whole way there I kept wondering: what if they don’t come? Will my friend and I be the only ones who show? How will my teacher react? All I could think of was how hurt and disappointed she would feel and, worse, how embarrassed she would be in front of her whole family, after they invested so much into this event. The image of them staring at a beautifully set, but empty, table horrified me.

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Finally we got there and knocked on the door. My teacher opened with a warm, welcoming smile. There was a gorgeous table with flowers, expensive silverware, and plenty of food. Then I realized that aside from my teacher’s family, we were the only ones there. A little while later two other classmates showed up, but that was all.

I was sad that so many of my friends had behaved in a way that was so disrespectful and ungrateful. I asked one of my friends how he could just not show. He answered that he never planned to go, but that at least most of our classmates had let the teacher know they weren’t coming because of what I said.

Then it hit me. I can’t always change the situation, but I can still fight for what I believe in and try to improve things, even just a little.

It wasn’t easy to confront my classmates, but I’m glad I did it because at least I mitigated this terrible situation. I stood up for my principles then and will continue to do so for as long as I can.

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Nature II Celia Banbahji Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Self Destruction Nissim Mishan Scanned Self Portrait, Photoshop

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Cold Air Jack H. Dweck Oil Paint

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The Day We Met Betty Hidary

I knew from the day I met you There would be a story to tell After all of this was over About a boy and a girl who fell I knew from the day I met you I knew from the very start that we would be beautifully broken When we fell apart

I knew from the day I met you One day we would say goodbye You never saw it coming I could never tell why I knew from the day I met you That we never stood a chance But I had to have you anyway You had me in a trance

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Burning Deep Katriella Weingarten Resourced Images, Photoshop

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In Another World Sarah Abramson Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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And The Cries And The Tears And The Heart Shella Yazdi

Long cries at night- That’s what’s good for your heart Tears dripping down your face Thinking of bitter memories Trying to fight off Your heavy mounds of anger Make sure to explore and excel in your studies After all, the risk-takers are the ones we come to study If you follow your trail of thought and stick to your foundations Maybe one day you’ll be making innovations!

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Unforgettable Sarit Alkaada Canon Rebel

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The Lie

Lynn Franco As I rushed to the ER, A sinking feeling overtook me.

As I looked up I saw my father, it was the first time I had seen a grown man cry like a child, and I felt a sting in my heart and I knew that the prognosis wasn’t good but I swallowed my fear and despite my pain, I assured him that everything would be okay.

Fire ¡ Pegasus 2019

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Fire Rochelle Hafif

Resourced Image, Illustrator

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Two-Faced Fire Nicole Muravsky

Dear fire, You provide comfort and hearth, A natural element of earth.

Growing flames of passion, In a perilous fashion.

Within you lies two extremes, There’s more to you than it seems.

Beneath your beauty is your dangerous nature, With your flames, memories you denature.

Your ability to incinerate, Life, you can perilously eradicate.

At the same time you keep me warm, Even through the most dangerous storm.

Working in a haste, You are two-faced.

Fire ¡ Pegasus 2019

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True Fan Rafi Nemet

Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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The Beauty of Music Freddy Chazanoff

Angels strumming their harps, Igniting the flames that we call inspiration.

Quenching our thirst, And satisfying our starvation.

An art created by the mind, Developing its body through the years.

Searching for hearts to bind, Extinguishing the fire of fears.

Her beauty comes in many forms, It is an art in itself.

Pull it up on our phones, Or simply take it off the shelf.

Her beauty comes in many forms.

Pots, pans, instruments, or a voice.

A prison found in heaven, Where we listen without a choice.

A drug with no restriction, But it creates a depiction.

Let’s just call it a healthy addiction.

Music will heal the world of its wounds, And that’s a spoiler, not a prediction.

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Extinguisher Ralph Sarway Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer Rachel Lincer

Taken forever his tears leave his eyes.

The man blinks; things are becoming increasingly blurred.

His body is heavy.

“I’m bad at goodbyes,” he says.

She takes his jaw and kisses him.

She then closes her eyes.

He still remembers what it felt like to fall in love.

She taught him to read, bake saffron buns and pour coffee without spilling it.

He remembers her giggles; oh how he misses them.

She taught him to live and he will miss her everyday.

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Poem Simone Dweck Canon Rebel

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A Second Chance Raquel Oved

Who would have thought That life would be so tough?

They say you can’t buy happiness.

I now know that’s true, Because what I bought Did not make life any less rough.

Now I’m possessed by sadness And I’m penniless.

I wish I knew you Back when I needed you most.

But you were like this ghost And I was just never enough.

I feel hopeless and reckless I just want a redo.

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Lake George Alan Frastai iPhone

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Books

Rebecca Coopersmith You fill me with passion and joy Traveling with your worn out body From how much you’re loved Through forests, cities, and oceans You’re always with me For that I love you so The magic inside you shines so bright Like a heavenly ray of sunshine piercing my heart Because the people, the places, the things All teach and show that life will get better And everything will be okay If my life hits a low point You carry me through the darkest times And reveal to me that I’m not alone and that I’m loved You brighten my brightest day Filling me with wonder Making me believe I can fly and reach all my dreams However impossible they may seem I may not say this every day You are incredible and marvelous But you definitely are not the epitome of don’t judge a book by its cover When people will see your worn body they’ll see love and care Your beauty will be seen all in a bent spine and frayed papers They’ll see that even with all the wearing out You don’t lose your story, your light, your soul They’ll see that you’re a part of me and perfect just the way you are Don’t ever leave me for I need you Every hour of every day Of every second of every minute You are all that I have who will be by my side Always

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Darkness is Coming Joshua Dweck Canon Rebel

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His Last Breath Rachel Lincer

Caesar’s last day A group of people on a mission.

A conspiracy.

They despised Caesar.

They hated him and wanted him gone.

As a group they went, With a plan.

Setting up each other, To kill that one man.

Caesar surrounded by the conspirators, Conversing with them.

Brutus came from behind, Stabbing Caesar at once.

“Et tu Bruté?”

Betrayal.

Traitor.

Is all Caesar died thinking of.

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Love

Monica Sultan red and beating bright and full consuming and enveloping passionate and uncontrollable meeting and talking conversation flowing emotional and heartfelt falling falling falling into me it goes on and on they take more of me every day piece by piece yet i’m still whole growing, making space for more boundless, vast, infinite they finally speak my name “I love you” he says “I love you too” she responds sighs of relief follow letting out breaths they didn’t know they were holding years go by boring and uninteresting sun comes up he looks over the hair fallen over her face pushes it back presses a half-hearted kiss to her cheek

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taken and infatuated morning after morning she wakes up to his piercing eyes gazing lovingly down at her every day still feels like the first exciting and unpredictable that night she spoke my name as usual “I love you” she said but he didn’t say it back he couldn’t red and pounding dark and empty draining and laid bare falling falling falling out of me.

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Cam Newton Selim Sabbagh Color Pencil

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Define Love Raquel Oved

How might one be able to describe love?

It is something that is intangible.

Something that only God knows from above.

The feelings not even describable.

Yet almost everyone finds love in life But how does one know that their love is real?

How does one commit to be a man’s wife?

The concept of love is just so surreal.

An intense feeling of deep affection That’s how a dictionary defines love.

Yet, I must make a huge interjection Cause love is much more and can still evolve.

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Pattern Betty Greenberg Paper Sclupture, Photoshop

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The Conqueror Worm David Hidary

So idolized they call me many names?

And so beloved I am renowned worldwide?

Names I am called, but only out of pain.

My fame, herald of baleful genocides.

“Oh, why?” I ask and fail to understand.

The paragon of animals they claim, But mindless man just cries while in my hand.

How ignorant to try and hide - insane!

They build a wall around their guardian.

They look but do not see the good in me, Life’s sting kills faster than the scorpion, I end the bitterness and set them free.

Without me - what fate awaits these frail men?

I’ll leave - let’s see what happens then.

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50 Things... Rebecca Coopersmith Resourced Images, Photoshop

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The Last Words Marcelle Sasson

My mouth has gone dry as sawdust.

And I can barely hear the Words coming from his lips-You’re killing us, you’re killing us.

We’re dying of starvation, I’m weak and needy But no one pities me.

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Red Like Fire Morris Esquenazi Scanned Shoe, Photoshop

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Ode to Her

Noam Weinstock Yesterday, I did not see the light of your golden hair.

I did not wish to be there By your side Loving you.

Your actions did not stir me, For I must have been out of my mind.

Because without your kind Of gentle care I am unfulfilled.

But tomorrow, Those yellow locks will shine no more, But as rays of hope in another man’s door.

As you leave to pursue your one desire, I will remain Desiring you.

So today, Let us spend our time forgetting all harm With your head resting softly under my arm.

For this day, like all other days, Must have the sun shine -And the sun is you, My beautiful love.

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Darkness from Beyond the Horizon Stephanie Tarrab

Everything was as it should be.

I was embraced by the balanced calm of nature. I rustled the leaves on the looming palm trees, rippled the reflections in the water, and shifted the dunes as I sighed. Life was good here and the people didn’t wish to be anywhere else but right here and right now. I can be anywhere I want to be, but this charming community has held me bound by a curious attraction to their ways. I have the privilege of witnessing the dry days come and go. I watch kids grow up (though all too fast) and people grow old. It’s a quaint community held together by old beliefs and new ideas. I know that getting too attached to this people can have its dangers, for their existence is not eternal. However, I cannot manage to detach myself from this chivalrous notion that compels me to protect, defend, and preservethough I know that I can do little to shelter them. I’m no more than the force that tousles their hair.

I observed some families gradually leaving their mud-brick houses to perform their daily morning activities. Though their routine was very much the same from day to day, they were entertained by the company of their fellow tribe members.

One young boy, Amir, exited his home basically attached to his mother’s, Lilah’s, left leg. Since Amir was born, he always had a smile on his face and had the ability to spread his joy to the rest of the community. Amir pulled his mother near the meeting hall and rapidly gestured at a small scarab beetle encrusted with sand.

“Mama! Look at this beetle! It’s so teeny, can we keep it?” Amir asked, bursting with enthusiasm.

“No, rohi, where would we put it?” his mother replied.

“Don’t worry! I’ll keep it in a pretty cup right by my bed.”

“That’s fine, Amir. You just need to take care of it, and make sure it doesn’t crawl out!”

“You got it! It’ll be nice and safe with me!” His squeal of excitement turned into curiosity as he glimpsed a big black mass floating close to the horizon through the spotless sky.

“What’s that, Mama?” he asked, pointing once more. I drifted towards the object of interest, noticing the acute tip of the menacing aircraft. I noticed the sleek missiles on the side of the plane, angled as though ready to drop. Surely they didn’t want to attack the oasis. Surely they hadn’t come for the souls of these innocent tribe members. Surely they hadn’t come for Amir.

I felt the tension in the air heighten, the plane’s engines increasingly exerting overwhelming force, as though reluctantly positioning itself in that murderous

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position. But alas, the pilots maneuvered, seemingly unperturbed by what was forthcoming.

I raged against the senseless, unforgiving fighter jet. I howled at the grim undersides of its wings, hoping it would retreat into the clouds forevermore.

It was not enough. But then of course it wasn’t enough. They have a power that even an age-old force cannot overcome.

As my eyes strayed to the oasis I saw that nobody was disturbed by the commotion up above- they barely even noticed me thundering more than ever against their ears. I tried to warn them, but the people knew no better than to ignore the faint whisper entwined in their hair.

And so the missiles fell.

One

By one

By one.

I did all but withhold. Fighting relentlessly, I recalled the times I’d defended similar people. But humanity never learns; they never will learn.

Nobody ever learns that this can never result in a happy ending, only a vicious cycle of tragedies no one can ever undo.

I threw myself against the falling missiles, trying to change their course even a little bit. All was futile. They continued heading to the small community bound for certain death. Realizing that even my fury could do nothing to move the explosives, I gathered all my power to attempt pushing the people away from the missiles’ target. By now, everyone noticed what was yet to come. Amir’s fearful face showed a stark contrast to his curiosity from only moments ago.

“Amir, come with me!” Lilah cried.

“Wait, I need to take the beetle with me!” Amir answered, attempting to make the bug crawl onto his cupped hands. Lilah simply picked him up off the ground and hoisted him into her arms.

“You can get it later. Everything will be okay, eini,” his mother said soothingly. She followed many others to the winery, the only place known to have an underground cellar. I sent the breeze to the soles of their sandals, pushing them to run faster. The missiles were moments from dropping and most people reached shelter by cramming in the wine cellar or in their own homes. Most people. Others, like Amir and Lilah, did not. Even though the people aren’t aware that I’ve always been there to safeguard them over the years, the feeling of guilt for not being able to shield them this time overtook me.

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Jamal was peering out the window of the winery, frantically looking for his wife and child through the screen of sand. Not being able to help them myself, I slightly calmed my gusts, bringing Lilah and Amir into view so Jamal could help them get to safety. But, as I said, they only had moments to reach cover- and those moments were over.

I find it interesting how under pressure the instincts of these ordinary people make life-saving decisions in split-seconds, even when they’ve never encountered a situation like this before. And so, without thinking, Lilah, still clutching Amir, collapsed onto the sand in a ball, with Amir sheltered in her core. There was nothing for me to do but to attempt to cool Lilah’s body from the impact of the missile when it landed a few paces away from her. One moment later, everything went up in flames.

I was forcefully pushed back from the point of impact in all directions, caught off guard. The blast of the explosion resounded around the area like the rumble of a thousand thunderclouds. The sand dunes reverberated with the impact of the barrage of missiles.

I gathered my senses after being disoriented from the blast, just in time that I could pad Jamal’s fall as he was thrown backward by the explosion.

Everything turned silent. In my ears, at least. The people’s buildings and houses that they have cherished so deeply continued to tumble and break, but the normal hustle-and-bustle of the community was interrupted, only to be replaced by the empty stares of the dead. I circled the oasis, trying to find a whisper of a lonely breath, but to no avail. I came back to the winery, watching anguished faces emerge through the fragmented building. And that’s when I felt it. A child’s breath. A muffled breath. Amir shook under his mother’s corpse, trying to get out. Lying on the sand, he stared at his mother’s lifeless face with despair.

“Mama, please get up, I can’t move!”

“Mama?”

The realization that his mother was dead dawned on him. Uncontrollable tears washed the bits of sand off his face. I wished that I could brush the tears off his face and go back in time, to only two minutes ago when life was normal. Out of the corner of his eye, Amir saw his father lying dead on the ground.

“You too, Baba?” Clutching his father’s face in his tiny hands, Amir simply lay on his back and let the tears flow.

One of the tribe’s-members came up to Amir and tried to comfort him.

“Amir, are you alright?” he asked. Amir couldn’t even respond as he was choked by his tears.

Amir managed to spit out a few words in between sobs. “They’re… dead…”

“I know rohi, I know. Come here,” he soothingly replied. The man beckoned

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Amir into his arms and ran his fingers along the child’s back. Soon the man became overwhelmed by Amir’s sheer anguish and couldn’t hold back his tears either.

I followed the other people slowly vacating the wine cellar. They were on a search for survivors in between the rubble. I knew what they didn’t. Nobody who was outside during the attack survived. Except for Amir, saved by his mother’s love. Nonetheless, I went in and out of brick fragments, glass shards, and ceramic chips, trying to aid the people in retrieving their relatives’, friends’, and students’ soulless figures.

As night fell and the stars shone through the smoke, I once again observed the people, this time watching them gather all the wax they could find, forming candles with it. Everyone worked together, fulfilling their age-old tradition. Some people acted without showing emotion, but soon enough everyone would lament and cry over the dead. After some time, a crowd gathered near the destroyed meeting hall. The same man who comforted Amir stepped up upon a big lump of brick, holding the child’s hand. He began to address his fellow mourners.

“Eleven people, my friends. Eleven people’s lives have been taken as a result of hatred against one another. This is why we must do exactly the opposite. Eleven families have been affected by this tragedy. I encourage everyone to stand together and comfort those families. This is the only way we will move on. Young and old, big and small, everyone should be affected. Everyone should be mourning. Everyone should help rebuild. Everyone should keep their memories in our hearts. This is the only way we can honor their passings. May their memories be a blessing.”

There were tears glistening in everyone’s eyes as the chieftain announced the names of all the dead. Eleven people who I’ve known since birth. Eleven people who have ceased to exist. Eleven people who I couldn’t save. I enveloped Amir in my warm breeze, mimicking the warmth of his mother’s heart against his chest.

“I will now light a candle for each person who died, eleven candles that will help guide our way.”

With each candle that was lit, the darkness that fell upon the people backed away a little bit more. I threw myself against the candles, raging the fire and hoping to banish the darkness forever.

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Blue Welding Joshua Idy Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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The Birthday Nicole Levy

Sunny day, a cool breeze a girl stands in the center of a crowded room a banner hangs from wall to wall she leans over and blows out the candles of a frosted cake

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Unsquashable Shelley Shamah iPhone, Photoshop

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Unstoppable Rafi Nemet Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Eruption Ness Bawabeh Scanned Fabric, Photoshop

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Rise to Greatness Esther Mizrachi

Take your time, set yourself It’ll go in Through the basket attached to a red rim--The sound of the swish Echoing throughout No one saw it coming An applause rang out It was her time to shine

Some Days Natalie Ryba

In the summer I watch the fading sun sink.

Time, unfortunately, doesn’t make it easy to stay on course.

But as I close my eyes, I grow a bit warmer and smile to myself.

I have no complaints about my path and the places it has taken me.

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Parents

Alyza Anderson You’re supposed to have two, right? A set. in my case I have four. Two sets.

I used to think it was fun Two times more love Two times more vacations Two times more presents.

But now all it is is two times more hurt Two times more pain Two times more tears.

I live each day with the feeling of being attacked on both sides of my body Eaten alive by flesh eating lions My heart beats like a nail pounded by a hammer.

Two seperate houses.

Two different lives These people I live with, The amount of lies.

It’s not easy being told you’re not enough From six years old and having to be tough.

Believing all these years That I’m a disgrace All those wasted tears And constantly feeling out of place.

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A baby bird left at the nest Not understanding what’s best.

The feeling of betrayal Awaiting her return.

Feeling alone in the world, Although with two sets It all goes back to one When I’m over and done One person My mother The only one I need The only one that was there Through all of it Always did she care.

Through the words and the slashes I can always count on her, She protects me from all these bashes.

She was my only cure.

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Ultraviolet Fire Jack H. Dweck Canon Rebel

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Unhealed Wound Kal Abed

These battle scars don’t look like they are fading no matter how much you try no matter how much you fail you will always be left with a scar no matter how painful, it will never go away They ain’t ever gonna change These scars will never go away nor be removed you will have to fight through them with everything you have and one day you will pass through it

The Shining Light Tyler Davidovich

We must strive to be like the moon A shining light that paves the path, Which people follow blindly through the dark For guidance is what’s needed, Hoping for shelter in the dark of night.

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Don’t Leave Rose Sternberg Illustrator

Water ¡ Pegasus 2019

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Disconnect Sarit Alkaada Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Credo

Noam Weinstock I believe in music.

That there really is a better place That we all want to reach, And harmony can bring us there.

That rhythm is ever present in nature.

And that it’s every human’s nature To seek melody.

That, sometimes, The cryptic lyrics speak only to me.

That they were written for me.

And often, I feel, Music believes in me.

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Pride Arlyne Jemal Canon Rebel

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Blackout

Raquel Oved The cycle of life comes to an end Leaving one alone and stuck in a constant darkness

Fear

Jenny Yazdi Why destroy the dreams of the dreamers?

Do you feel guilty knowing what you have done?

Why stand there mockingly as everything goes by Shaking at the what ifs of the future?

Do you feel as though you have done something good When she has frozen in panic, paralyzed with fear Instead of making those dreams into a reality?

Void ¡ Pegasus 2019

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7 Different Men Joy Cattan Acrylic on Canvas

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Pegasus 2019 · Void

No More

Monica Sultan the flood gates were open the tears swelled over she couldn’t hold it in not anymore she walked over her heart in her hands he claimed it from her not anymore she gave him her trust he took advantage he didn’t care for her not anymore she gazed into his eyes observed and realized he didn’t love her not anymore she’s broken hearted stagnant and lifeless doesn’t know how to act not anymore she walks over reclaims her heart he can’t destroy her not anymore she starts anew day by day healed not hidden not anymore.

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Lonely Sarah Abramson Canon Rebel, Photoshop

Emptiness Alyza Anderson Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Things Only You Can See Shira Simchon

People want to see what they look for, Like a shadow, they look forward, even if it may seem aphotic.

They hear what they listen for, like an echo-someone to repeat what you are already thinking.

And even if you feel lonely the echoes and shadows of others call back to you.

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The Void In My Life Top to bottom:

Orly Alchkifati - Resourced Images, Photoshop Marcelle Cohen - Resourced Images, Photoshop Danielle Tawil - Resourced Images, Photoshop Esther Spigel - Resourced Images, Photoshop

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Paradox Mimi Sultan

Resourced Images, Photoshop

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Mission to Neptune Sheila Levy Paper Sculpture, Photoshop

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Dear Death Grace Hidary

Dear Death, You come and go in a blink of an eye Never looking back on all the loved ones you left behind You’ve been doing your job Since the beginning of time Yet we still don’t understand why You leave us broken and sad inside

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The Non-Poem Poem Albert Terzi

When we were asked to write a poem The first thing I said was no But then you know what I’ll show ‘em Let’s get started, let’s go I sat down at my desk at home And wanted to get a crack at it I said maybe I’ll write about Rome But then I stopped and quit Then I get a reminder on my phone Slam poem due at midnight They don’t leave me alone Guess I gotta get it in tonight So I sat and thought to no end Waiting for something to come to me And to write I do intend Maybe I’ll go get some tea The peppermint tea did no assistance I couldn’t even write a verse But then again my poem has no existence It’s really only getting worse

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Then I got very frustrated I started to scream and shout Later on I pondered and debated Eventually just used this cop out I mean, I too sometimes get fascinated by things like guanine.

But everyone is sorted. Some are green algae. Some are moss.

Here or there. There’s no middle.

I can’t help feeling at a loss.

So I grab a pen and begin to scribble The urgency of it all is frightening But at least I know that I can’t dribble All my writing and writing seems to prove enlightening I finish my journal. I’m no longer a machine.

Gotta continue with my metaphorical teeth whitening.

I’m a tangerine.

I could care less about alkene.

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Perspective Allie Saada Watercolor

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Reality

Rochelle Hafif Am I in par-a-dise?

Father, is that you?

We won the war, I said.

We won the war!

I smiled.

I finally get to see my father once more But then, I was slapped; Slapped back to life.

My smile disappeared.

I was back at war.

Blood bursting.

Bombs falling.

Back at war.

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You Are Not There Tami Cohen Illustrator

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Goodbye

Raquel Oved I loved to see you smile It helped me run that extra mile And influenced my style But now you’re on trial!

It makes me sad To see how you could be so bad You were once my lad And now I’m just mad.

You used to teach me how to be good And cooked me great food But lately you’ve been in this mood...

I don’t know how this started But from this we have parted

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Happy Self Arlyne Jemal Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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No Place Like Home Frieda Maleh

I woke up In confusion-Did that all really just happen?

Did I really walk the yellow brick road, Dance with a scarecrow, And sing with a gentle lion?

I’ve never seen such beauty As the Emerald City, But despite the glamour I am happy to be home.

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Time for School Joy Cattan Watercolor on Fabric

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Now or Never Yael Frechter

The sun goes down Here and now All that counts is Breaking free Time is slipping away We see it coming Now’s the time We’re breaking free We’re running Somewhere no one else can see My universe will never be the same We’re breaking free

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Mother Nature Tami Cohen Resourced Images, Photoshop

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Memories Elie Esses

Oh, how long ago I remember so very clearly Oh, how much I’ve grown I hold it so dearly It will never go, My strongest memory is not a memory But rather something more

The Gunshots Cynthia Jajati

The sound of the guns was So terrifying it confused everyone.

Some people would go left, While others would go right.

No one had any control over The chaos But no one ever does.

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Arnold Allie Saada

Charcoal and Graphite

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One by One

Evan Rosenfeld A shot sounded in the distance.

The silhouette of a man appeared from a void.

Every head turned toward him.

His gun in hand with one eye closedtowards the group all in camouflage.

The hand shook violently, he pulled the trigger.

One by one each man fellno sounds, no screams.

What was once a group of people, standing tall, Is now just a pile of flesh.

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Such Is Life Arlyne Jemal Canon Rebel, Photoshop

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Scars

Abigail Tuachi My scars, my heart, my open wounds, Familiar songs, familiar tunes.

All of these things are what remind me, That my past isn’t behind me.

Turning left and turning right, No escaping what happened that night.

All of these things are what remind me, That my past isn’t behind me.

Dripping sweat, eyes wide with fear, With all my might I hold back a tear.

All of these things are what remind me, That my past isn’t behind me.

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Distorted Portraits Joy Cattan Acrylic, Watercolor

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My Always Home Marcelle Sasson

My parents are gone But I’m not alone I have two worlds behind me But only one I call home Walking through the halls Learning magic and flying on brooms This is the place where I’ll always want to be But things have changed over the years Death has come My father figure killed And an enemy seeking for my blood Years and years I’ve been running from death But now it’s time to meet him A part of me dies but it’s not the end I’ve escaped from reality but love has brought me back The light has returned As I walk through the halls of a place I once called home But though that’s now gone My legacy lives on I know I’ll always have a place there Because that is my always home

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Sally

Rebecca Coopersmith When someone who affected everyone around her Filling them with light and joy And always ready to make everyone around her laugh With her stripping on the hot beach jokes Is now no longer And you ask me if I’m okay When the person with a strong spirit Who imbued others with hope With confidence that they’ll see her again Floated away and her strength evaporated Never coming back down And you ask me if I’m okay When someone close to me is gone Who made me feel as if I belonged No matter the overwhelming age difference Who’d say to us seriously “No one ever taught you to speak Jewish” Trying to get us to learn Yiddish, her first language And you ask me if I’m okay When her children lost a loving mother One that would drive a pot of chicken soup To their house when they were sick Who would make sure that they were okay And that they’d have someone with them

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And you ask me if I’m okay When someone who said “Why wouldn’t you want to be happy?”

Who would want me to stay happy Even through her absence But a black hole ripped open inside of me Grabbing all the happiness around me And you ask me if I’m okay When the woman who isn’t here anymore Who would never hurt anyone on purpose Who asked why would you want to hurt somebody But hurt me when she left me alone And you ask me if I’m okay When I lost someone I strongly connected to Who I wished would never leave me Who I thought would pull through Whose wise saying was “Take your time but hurry up” Finished her time here on earth And you ask me if I’m okay

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Knot In My Stomach Yael Frechter Scanned Fabric, Photoshop

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Significance Elie Esses

Dear Universe, With a multitude of galaxies scattered upon you, With stars that outnumber grains of sand, With our inevitable demise looming near, Our cosmic insignificance is all but certain.

Is it just by a minuscule chance, That I exist?

If just one atom hadn’t exploded, Would I be here?

Are we just stardust, And nothing more?

Some might say we are insignificant, But no.

I choose to think that We are more.

Sidestepping the Trap Jenny Yazdi

Anger is a trap You set for yourself.

It passed through his veins and As the world froze He closed his eyes I should do something he whispered But then he opened them And did nothing.

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This Is Me Jacquelyn Mann Resourced Images, Photoshop

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The Insomniac Daniel Beyda

To the one who keeps me awake at night, And makes me toss and turn, As I try to grasp just a smidge of shut-eye Sleep is always at an arm’s length Always so close yet so far Always taunting me But never taking me away To a blissful, unconsciousness Sleep

Void ¡ Pegasus 2019

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Loyal Friends Orly Alchkifati Resourced Images, Photoshop

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The Kite

Grace Hidary It turned out to be sooner than later.

A gust of wind lifted my kite I lost control and it left my hold; it drifted off and I lost sight of what I once had.

So I turned around and walked away never looking back.

Guilt

Rachel Lincer As I opened the door, he screeched.

His eye of a vulture, full of fear.

I kept telling myself I am not insane.

I am not!

As I hid the body, I left no signs.

What an impressive job I did!

The police arrived, questioning me.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

Louder! Louder!

It was getting louder.

I couldn’t handle it.

“Me! It was me!”

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I Never Saw it Again Michael Gammal Resourced Images, Photoshop

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Persistence

Alyza Anderson The time will come When I no longer have to worry I no longer question where I’m from The pain will go away.

The time will come For me to be happy To know who I’ll become And no longer question my actions.

I’ll live life how I want Not being told what to do Not being told I’m not enough The pain will go away.

I’ll be free Away from everyone Away from everything To live without fear.

Not being told I’m a disgrace Not being shown I have no place In this city we call home Is it really though?

Not being good enough Not trying my best But I am I swear I am.

I try harder every day Every time I fall I get back up stronger In place leaving a larger dent.

I try to be positive To have a better outlook Because what else is there to do When all else is gone?

I used to pretend But now I really try Try to be happy Try not to cry.

But sometimes I fail I get lost in the darkness This place I call home But the feeling is not so.

I let it all out Then continue with my day Pretend nothing happened And so I smile away You don’t know what someone is going through You can’t relate You can only be there To help them get through it and correlate.

Life is hard We all have our flaws But waking up and being proud Is what life is about.

Waking up, a new day Trying your hardest And feeling accomplished That is the most wonderful thing of all.

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Rebelion Leor Yazdi

Resourced Images, Illustrator

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Tik Tok

Virginia Oved No legs No body Just a face and hands.

As I sit there on the wall Moving my hands.

All eyes on me.

Disregarding the information being fed.

Then ding Everyone pours out of the classroom And then there is silence.

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Crossroads Bobbie Beyda Illustrator

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Immortality

Joseph Kamkhatchi My grandpa passed away One morning he was still in his bed His soul was gone but A note was left behind On paper, things can live forever

Waiting

Rachelle Beyda Alone, Just a man waiting for the train Standing still The world moves around him What is he thinking I wonder Is he lonely? Sad? Depressed Then again I’m just guessing Because he is just a man waiting for the train

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‫בית הספר התיכון של הישיבה דפלטבוש על שם מר יואל ברברמן‬

Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School Al and Sonny Gindi Campus 220

Pegasus 2019 · Elements