Cleveland State Community College ENGLISH DEPARTMENT Table of Contents

Kasara Croft In Loving Memory of Colby Stansberry...... 885 Jan. S. Rogers The Bloom ...... 886 Class Dismissed ...... 887-8 The Earth Rocked ...... 889 ‘Tis the Season to Learn How to Dress ...... 810-11 Meagan Samuelson Mr. X ...... 812 Peggy Crisp Jesse ...... 813 Kiss Me in the Rain ...... 814 One More Kiss in the Rain ...... 815 Blessings through the Day ...... 816 Head Held High ...... 817 Friends through the Years ...... 818 Amber Hornsby Because of Who I Am ...... 819 Lauren Link The Same ...... 820 Ashley Herrod My Lost Tennessee Home ...... 821 Looking for Happiness...... 822 Unknown Soldier ...... 823 Ali Brackett Forgetting the Real Reason ...... 824 Leilani Vidrine What I Really Want ...... 825 Andy Panter Alaska ...... 826 Kaneeshia Young A Black Woman ...... 827 Ashley Malone Goodbye for Now ...... 828 Malia Scott My Special One ...... 829-30 Anonymous Grazing the Surface ...... 831 Cheryl D. Coffman Gettting Down to Business ...... 832-35 Audrey Beaver An Injustice to Yourself ...... 836 Cloud Watching ...... 837 An Instructor’s Fortress of Solitude ...... 838 Destiny Awaits ...... 839 Running Behind ...... 840 Issues ...... 841 Mysterious World Unknown ...... 842 An Every Year Affair ...... 843 Kayla Cantrell Unwanted Knocks on My Door ...... 844-45 OUT OF SIGHT AND OUT OF MIND ...... 846 And He Shall Be Called…The Great I CAN . 847 Girl, You Need to Shut Up...... 848 Lauralyn Anderson Help Me Lord ...... 849 Poor Pretty Blonde ...... 850 Tuesday Morn ...... 851 Mother Dear ...... 852 Speed Dial ...... 853 Bermuda Blues ...... 854 Street Glide ...... 855 Trunkin’ ...... 856 Fashion Statement ...... 857 Lena Osment Alphabet Poem ...... 858 The Knife ...... 859 Haiku ...... 860 Dark over Light ...... 861 Letter Poem ...... 862 The Age of Seasons ...... 863 Tabatha Summers Just Another Girl ...... 864 What It Means to Remember ...... 865 My Hypocrisy ...... 866 The World ...... 867 Willow ...... 868 Desires ...... 869 Fidelity ...... 870 Sweet Memories ...... 871 The Beat of the Student Center ...... 872 A Walk through the Woods ...... 873 Bleeding Wrath ...... 874 No More ...... 875 Anonymous Prose Poem Paragraph Form ...... 876-77 Anonymous ABC’s of What Is Real ...... 878 Lita Connolly-Brown Life of a Tree ...... 879 Truth ...... 880 Perspective ...... 881 Do You See Me? ...... 882 Voiceless ...... 883 Eli W. Beard The Fyre ...... 884 Logan Gibson Ode to Alcoholism ...... 885 Savannah Cass ABC’s of You ...... 886 Abby Fuller Questions for HIM ...... 887-88 Love ...... 889 Shannon Marrie Finding You ...... 890 Jason Davis Untitled ...... 891 Kitsune ...... 892 Waste ...... 893 Sonnet III ...... 894 Judgment ...... 895 Meat Market ...... 896 Untitled ...... 897 Mitchell Poore Of Man and Men ...... 898 Dustin Housley As Red as Rain ...... 899 Suffer in Ruin. A Guiding Light? ...... 100-101 Taylor Dixon Another Day in High School ...... 102 Lynsie Holder To High School ...... 103 Warm Summer’s Day ...... 104 Jileen Farley Fall ...... 105 Donna Harkins In This Place ...... 106 Mortal Dungeon ...... 107 Sweet Innocence ...... 108 Who Am I? ...... 109 Letter Poem ...... 110 Amber Daugherty As the World Turns ...... 111 Anonymous Divorce ...... 112 Eric Harris Letter Poem ...... 113 True Colors ...... 114 Instruments of the Orchestra ...... 115 Meagan Frey Girlfriend ...... 116 T. Jan Rogers Carnival Newsletter ...... 117-122 Jackie Black The Gridiron ...... 123 Anonymous Those Eyes, Your Eyes ...... 124

PHOTOGRAPHS SUBMITTED BY: Alex Clark, Amanda Tucker, Amber Hornsby, Andy Panter, Ashley Herrod, Audrey Beaver, Barbara Schooley, Brittany Allen, Caitlin Swanson, Chase Wyatt, Christine Milam, Christy Young, Debra Black, Delota Little, Donald Burk, Heather Ruzic, Jana Pankey, Jigna Patel, Jileen Farley, Jonathan Otto, Julie Fulbright, Kasara Croft, Kathy Austin, Laura Cash, Lita Connolly-Brown, Malia Scott, Manali Patel, Meagan Frey, Meagan Samuelson, Michelle Williamson, Peggy Crisp, Tabatha Summers, Tabitha Stone, and Taylor Dixon.

DRAWINGS SUBMITTED BY: Brandy Baggett, Cheyenne McDonald, Kyle Brogden, and Rachel Leonard. In Loving Memory of Colby Stansberry Kasara L. Croft

Today, I got up and got dressed like a normal day. As I went to school, I could feel something bad had happened I heard things, but wishing it wasn’t true… As I walked down the hall way, The reality hit me like a bolt of lightning. But I did not shed a tear. I went to class People talking, talking all around me. As I look around, feeling something was missing… Colby! Where are you? Where did you go? Why are you not here with us? Then I felt wetness flowing down my cheek. This is a dream. I’m still sleeping. For tomorrow I will see your smile again. My friend pinched me, so I could wake up. The only thing that happened was a sharp pain running up my arm. I didn’t wake up. Tell me this isn’t true!!!!! I will miss your smile, your kindness, and your funniness. I will miss you. Especially next semester. Our last year of taking Art and you won’t be there It won’t be the same with out you especially since we graduate in six months. At graduation I will be thinking of you. I can remember how one girl said she was going to have your baby and you went along with it. Or the time when we did our mannequins in Art lll and you made Dorothy, but made her chest way too big…. Then you went around gathering unwanted materials to make her shirt unique. Then grabbed my curly hair, that I was going to put on my doll, and said, “Yep, that is the hair I want.” Good times, Good times. I will never forget you. For I know I will be seeing you one day again. I know you are wondering why we are crying and yet you feel so good. We are mourning for YOU. When my day comes, I will see you again. Till then watch over your mom and dad and of course, all of your friends. Keep them safe from harm’s way. Till I see you again, Take care. Dedicated to Colby $. We will never, never forget Colby.

5 The Bloom Jan S. Rogers

I walked upon the rose and noticed a shorter bud behind the leaf and shadow of the larger, fully developed bloom. I watched each day as I walked my usual path. I was hoping to one day see the bud reach its full potential of a beautiful bloom. Yet, it was not until the sun shone bright that the bud began to open. Slowly, the delicate flower yawned itself opened. Each day brought more hope and excitement. One day, a storm came, and before the bud was fully open, the wind and beating rain destroyed the bril- liance of the miracle of bloom. The bud broke off and fell to the ground. There, its new purpose was food for the bugs that soon devoured it – leav- ing nothing for proof of its existence except the bowl of leaves which it was once housed. My heart fell, though I knew that it was none other than the circle of life. My heart knew that the bud represented me and the sunshine him. That was what it felt like when he left. Although I still had purpose, I felt I would never have the chance to bloom.

Photo submitted by Audrey Beaver 6 Class Dismissed Jan S. Rogers

As I stand at the kitchen sink, my hands searching through the warm, soapy water , my mind travels back to another place in time that feels very familiar. The year is 1994, and my four-year-old runs up to me, squeezes between me and the kitchen cabinet, and wraps his chubby arms around my legs. I am pushed back and surprised. I looked down into his golden, brown eyes, his smile pushing up his rosy cheeks. “I love you,” he says as quickly as he lets go and runs away to play. There was no special reason for this, but many times during his childhood, I was blessed with such unexpected visits.

I blink. I am still in front of the sink but have returned to the present moment. It is 2008, and the baby face brown eyed boy has been replaced by a tall, slim handsome 18 year old who comes into the kitchen to open the refrigerator to see if new food has magically appeared since the last time he checked -only 10 minutes before this. Oh, there are still the occasional hugs for no apparent reason, but he must bend way over and my neck is now craned up high in order to rest my head on his shoulder. In just a few short days, he will wear a cap and gown and walk across a stage to receive a piece of paper that says to society, “He did it!” To me, his mother, he accomplished so much more than the norm. His hugs mean more to me than any diploma, more than any grade. Tears roll down my cheeks as I realize my attempt at doing dishes is futile. I am standing still, only adding to the dish water with my dropping 7 tears. The fact that this is my third time letting one go does not make it any less painful. So think about this as you attend a graduation for a family member or friend. As you sit there fanning yourself with the paper program trying to push away the rising heat….as you move about in your seat trying to find the most comfortable position; know that there is probably a mom like me around you. She does not feel the heat or the hardness of the seat. She does feel, however, the rising lump in her throat, the tears filling up her eyes, and she realizes that biting her cheek is not stopping those tears. Yes, she is proud, but she is also in fear for her son or daughter because she knows that little piece of paper is also the doorway to the next phase of life. She will be left with memories that no one or no piece of paper can erase. Memories of chubby arms holding on, of “I love you, Mom” for no reason at all. I will smile as I watch him walk across that stage. I will be biting my cheek, blinking away the tears, and hoping the camera won’t mess up this time. Yes, he’s done it. And so it goes- it is what it is. Congratulations, graduates of 2008. Please remember to hug your mom really tight. Photo submitted by Kathy Austin (Subject depicted in photo is not related to the story)

8 The Earth Rocked Jan S. Rogers

The earth rocked and darkness fell The earth rocked and her home was gone The earth rocked and her body burnt The earth rocked and her baby screamed The earth rocked and silenced the scream The earth rocked her baby to sleep-eternally.

Photo submitted by Christine Milam 9 ‘Tis the Season to Learn How to Dress Jan S. Rogers

‘Twas the day after Thanksgiving and all through the house, Not a creature was stirring, not even my spouse. But what to my swollen eyes should appear? The time of 3:30am….and THE shopping day was here! My friend and I went to Wal-Mart to save us a buck. Oh, my God!!! That woman has on Daffy Duck!!!! A woman in Tweety, a woman in Tinker Bell!!! I rubbed my eyes to see this and tell. People in slippers….people in flops… People still dressed in their pajama tops. On the next aisle, there arose such a clatter, I ran ‘round the corner to see what was the matter It was a granny in flannels, her daughter in plaid I must have had a look on my face that was bad They had knocked over Santa that was on the top shelf And I laughed when I saw them, in spite of myself They both turned to me to see what was funny When up came a girl in pants with a bunny They came from each and every corner of the store I looked down and thought, “I’m in jeans-what a bore!” I looked outside and thought about running But as I looked back, the spectacles were stunning I couldn’t believe it…I had to admit….. I stood back in silence as I saw each outfit. They didn’t seem to notice that most people shopping Were fully clothed with their hair presentable-not meant for mopping I felt out of place, as if I was over-dressed It seemed the style to have hair that was messed I laughed as I noticed all of the weirdos I saw I laughed as I thought, “What would I see at the mall?” So I decided to name each character in jammies And the first was GI Joe sketched out on some cammies There was Sylvester and Piglet, Tigger and Pooh, Eeyore, Pinocchio, and Little Boy Blue The last one I saw came out from ‘round a back corner It was a Christmas pie eaten by Lil’ Jack Horner Why do people dress in such a strange way? These people were shopping-a public display!! There were not only pajamas, but jeans waist to the knee, Revealing a sight I really didn’t want to see. Underwear with characters–I noticed them too,

10 I tried not to look, but what could I do? So I gathered my stuff I had put in my cart. I gathered my friend and checked out of Wal-Mart. And what to my wondering eye should appear Santa Clause driving his sleigh and his deer I saw him smile and as he drove right on by I saw that shining gleam in his eye He shouted loudly, as he drove out of sight “Pull up those jeans and only wear PJs to bed at night!!!”

Drawings by Rachel Leonard 11 Mr. X Meagan Samuelson

Mr. X, What can I say? You make me feel this certain way You make my heart skip a beat Whenever we have a chance to meet Since the night you let me into your soul O how you make my heart feel whole I crave our hugs sweet embrace It’s when you take me to our secret place Every night is the time when I can dream Of the life with you I long to see Your eyes are filled with love and lust The things that make my heart combust Your lips so sweet They are my little treat Hopefully you feel the same way too Or Hopefully one day you’ll be able to say “I DO”

Photo submitted by Meagan Samuelson 12 Jesse Peggy Crisp

He was my first born son, this little blonde haired boy This precious little baby, a mother’s pride and joy As he grew, he became Mommy’s little man I gave to him all the love that a mother can He used to go with Pappy and they would catch some fishes And he loved to help his Meme wash the dinner dishes He would climb up in a tree and pretend to hunt a deer Oh how I only wish this precious child were still here But he has gone on to be with the Father up above Nothing can take away this thing called mother’s love I loved and took care of him till he was only three And now he’s up in heaven watching over me

In memory of my son Jesse, 11-28-95—3-18-99

Photo submitted by Peggy Crisp 13 Kiss Me in the Rain Peggy Crisp

I have this little dream of mine; a fantasy, if you will To be with you in the rain, in our love to just be still Even when I was a child, I liked to play in a summer rain It could take away my little hurts and wash away my pain Now as I remember those times, it was joyful, innocent, and sweet Back then it was so fun to play in puddles in my bare feet Feeling the raindrops is still soothing, as they roll gently down my face It makes me feel so peaceful, just as you do when we embrace I am so content with you; I feel we have everything to gain Only one thing could be better....will you kiss me in the rain? I have this little dream of mine; a fantasy, if you will To be with you in the rain, in our love to just be still Even when I was a child, I liked to play in a summer rain It could take away my little hurts and wash away my pain Now as I remember those times, it was joyful, innocent and sweet Back then it was so fun to play in puddles in my bare feet Feeling the raindrops is still soothing, as they roll gently down my face It makes me feel so peaceful, just as you do when we embrace I am so content with you; I feel we have everything to gain One thing could be better....will you kiss me in the rain?

Photo submitted by Lita Connolly-Brown 14 One More Kiss in the Rain Peggy Crisp

Kiss me once more in the rain this time so you can’t see tears of pain I will always treasure the time we had Although today my heart is so sad When you think of me I hope you smile My heart will heal again after a while I’m trusting the Lord to carry me through But for now I really miss you Remember the good times and not the bad I think of you and it makes my heart glad Right now my heart is broken and feels such pain Look, what is this?..my tears or the rain?

For Jason

15 Blessings through the Day Peggy Crisp

At the dawning of a new day, I hear the singing of the birds What a lovely gift from God, His love spoken not in words Then as the sun begins to shine, it’s the start of a new day The glory of it all, it seems, is more than words can say As the day moves on, God’s love is seen in the flowers, and the grass and trees And if you listen close enough, you hear His love sung by the bees God’s love comes out in all the things He chose to us to give He gave them for our happiness, but without them we’d still live As the day winds down, I hear crickets chirp, and here comes a firefly Oh, how could any ever doubt? Or the love of God deny? For His love is everywhere, in every nook and cranny His blessings can’t be counted, because there are so many As night draws ever closer, the whippoorwill sings his tune And now here comes another gift...the grand, majestic moon Now as I go through my evening, and I prepare for a night of rest I have to bow my head and pray, “Thank you, Father, for I am blessed”

Drawing by Kyle Brogden 16 Head Held High Peggy Crisp

It used to be that when I walked, my head was always down I never really smiled or laughed but always had a frown I was an empty broken vessel always hiding from the light My heart was in the shadows like it was always night I felt worthless and unwanted no matter what I tried I only wanted to be loved, but mostly only cried Then one day with God’s help, and some wonderful people too I found the strength to change it all and begin my life anew I found out I was strong and that I had some worth There are things I never thought before, like a brand new birth So next time that you’re out and you see me walking by Notice that I’m smiling and I walk with head held high

17 Friends through the Years Peggy Crisp

We have all been on a journey of many many years There has been a lot of joy, but there have also been some tears Sometimes I hear an old song, maybe riding in my car It makes me think of you and I wonder how you are Sometimes I want to pick up the phone, but I’m unsure of what to say So I just say your name to God when I bow my head to pray When I pray I thank the Lord for all the friends I’ve had For thinking on the times we shared makes my heart so glad I know I have not kept in touch, but don’t think that I don’t care For so many things rob my time as life takes me here and there We have all be through some stuff, some have loved and lost We have all made some choices and we have paid the cost The choices we make are tough, some are right, and some are wrong I’ve learned that it’s the hard things that prove to make us strong There are friends and acquaintances who don’t have much to say But then there are true friends who make years seem as yesterday I like to think that we are that kind, ones who melt away the years The ones who are there through the happiness and through the tears Through the years it seems we have all grown so far apart But it is only in time and distance, for you are still here in my heart…

18 Because of Who I Am Amber Hornsby

Boarding the train feeling dazed and confused, My heart begins to beat fast, Unsure, crowded, and cold- My body becomes still, hard and emotions flare. As the train goes faster and faster - I cry out… It is so loud, make it stop. Through the tunnels and across the miles- I was taken and confined. Stripped of my identity-they left me.

Photo submitted by Manali Patel 19 The Same Lauren Link

You dress different from me. And pray in a different language. Your clothes, they make others nervous “Terrorist”, “Evil”, “Radical” but it’s not hard to see how you and I are so the same. We cry, we laugh, we feel in the same language.

Photo submitted by Lita Connolly-Brown 20 My Lost Tennessee Home Ashley Herrod

Oh how I miss your melancholy hill You made my reality almost still Oh how I miss the silver moon, the golden stars If I could see you once more it would ease my heart Oh how I miss the dancing of the crystal creek And the sweet wind, how it would kiss upon my cheek. You were mine all mine I would look on with pride I thought we would be together till the end of time But you were in someone else’s name, I have no claim to you Then I barreled my soul in you though I had loved you I would have died and lied for you, but it wasn’t enough To a man you were the perfect price But for me, you saved my life. Now where I resign the Lights never die Cars never stop while I let out a shallow breath out into the fog Oh how I miss your sweet aroma when it would rain I cannot help think about yesterdays My beautiful place, the place the new me dwells You never made me feel alone Oh how I miss my lost Tennessee home

Photo submitted by Heather Ruzic 21 Looking for Happiness Ashley Herrod I knock on the door No one welcomes me in The faces are hard and cold as the wooden floor I want to sing a song, but no one sings along I want to praise your name They look at me like I am insane Have I stepped into the wrong place There is not a trace of happiness on their face I must be wrong I must turn around I must find the place Where people sing Amazing Grace Because if you’re in their heart Happiness will be on their face

22 Unknown Soldier Ashley Herrod

Nobody knows your given name Nobody knows where you came from Nobody knows whose mother to comfort Everybody knows the pain you might have suffered The Unknown Soldier in the marble tomb The Unknown Soldier who fought for the red, white, and blue You were brave, you were strong, you kept marching on We lay a rose at your grave for the price you paid We solute you, Unknown Soldier, in the marble tomb Nobody knows the color of your eyes Nobody knows if you were afraid when you died Nobody knows if you were a husband or just a son Everybody knows you were someone’s loved one Arlington is now your home Arlington is now where you lie in a stone We come to you with respect and thanks While a soldier watches over your grave

Photo submitted by Ashley Herrod 23 Forgetting the Real Reason Ali Brackett

Forgetting the Real Reason The sky is clear. There’s no more rain. Everyone is so happy. So I don’t show the pain. Nobody can wait, for the holiday to come. They need to slow down or they will forget about the ONE. They don’t seem to remember, what it’s really all about. We should be celebrating Jesus, instead people just want to pout. They didn’t get what they wanted. It isn’t the right one. They all got caught up in the moment, instead of remembering what was done. They all forgot about the victory, when Christ died for you and me. They just went about their business, instead of pausing to see. They all forgot about the real meaning. They all chose to turn away. I choose to remember, because I know where I will go one day.

24 What I Really Want Leilani Vidrine

All I want to do is sit on a side bench at the park to mend my broken heart All I want to do is jump in a car, drive far away and maybe change my name All I want to do is paint this old town new and then I can get rid of you All I want to do is smile once again, hang with my friends and not think of you Really what I want is for you to walk into my house Tell me you do need me and be a man, not a mouse Really what I want is to be in your arms and for you to keep me warm What I really want to do is be with you All I want to do is kick you to the curb and be as free as a bird All I want to do is laugh out loud and not be found All I want to do is ride a mechanical bull and forget about you fool All I want to do is shop, shop, shop until you drop Really what I want is for you to walk into my house Tell me you do need me and be a man, not a mouse Really what I want is to be in your arms and for you to keep me warm What I really want to do is be with you

25 Alaska Andy Panter

Alaska is cold. The trip is one of a kind. Eagles, bear, fish, moose.

Photo submitted by Andy Panter 26 A Black Woman Kaneeshia Young A black woman so proud and true There is nothin’ that she cannot do She is not afraid to take control She is smart, strong, and very bold Her brown sugared face shows the wonders of her grace Her skin is dark and sleek as the sky That’s somethin’ she’s proud of and not afraid to hide She has hazel brown eyes that tell a story When she enters the room, the sun of her smile makes the guys bask in her glory Curly, braided, straightened, or kinky are the styles of her hair She has all the guys in the town wantin’ to stare From her clothes to her shoes Her style Fendi and Prada and such Dolce and Gabbana Dooney Burke Vondutch Shows that she has a passion for fashion Her high class diva style personality shows she knows how to dress to impress, but never too classy She still knows how to step out on faith and be a lady and be sassy The manner in which she speaks she’s out spoken, never meek She carries herself with dignity and pride And she never walks without a stride Intelligent and independent without any fears And to make her all these things she had to shed a few tears But still a black woman she is

27 Good Bye for Now Ashley Malone

My eyes are swollen from all the tears, this was one of my biggest fears. The grace of God took a friend away, now all I can do is pray for the family to be okay. You never know what life will bring, Heather Hirt now has her wings. She left her family and friends here on earth, we will see her again when the world has a new birth. (To the Hirt Family )

Photo submitted by Audrey Beaver 28 My Special One Malia Scott It was a hectic day, the day after Valentine’s Day 1998; and my sister went into labor 4 weeks early. As family members arrive, we all took turns starting conversations to keep the fear from becoming overwhelming. I am the big sister to Elizabeth by 10+ years. I was her coach with her daughter Haley’s birth. Patience and waiting are two things that I never had enough of. The doctors did some tests and felt it would be best to allow Devin to be born and taken to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at East Ridge Hospital. Devin was born, and he was small and had breathing problems. I was glad they sent him to East Ridge NICU. With the medical problems Elizabeth had, the doctors wanted to watch her for about a week. This would mean they were going to be in two different towns. Knowing that she wanted to see and hold her baby son broke my heart. Because I lived in Chattanooga, I would go every couple of hours to do his feedings. The feedings were hard. Devin struggled to suck and swallow properly, so the doctors asked us about entering a feeding tube because he was not getting enough on his own. I would rock Devin and promise him all the chocolate milk he wanted if he would finish this bottle. Devin slowly improved, and we never had to discuss that again. At 2 weeks old the doctors called the family in for a meeting. Devin had endured a lot of tests, and we anxiously awaited the news. While sitting there next to Elizabeth, waiting for the results of the tests, I could feel my heart beating through my chest. The news the doctors gave us was awful. They said he would not walk, talk, or function in a normal setting. After the initial shock and tears, we talked about our options. We knew Devin would have a strong support system, starting aunts, uncles, and grandparents on both sides, as well as cousins. Devin came home, and we had to get him into a routine. His paternal great grandparents were the best caregivers along with grandmothers and aunts (by birth or not). Elizabeth needed this being a single parent and having his sister in the house. There were hundreds of doctor visits, tests, and therapy. For each of these we tried to have two people go, so no information got missed. Some of the other most simple things like, when changing his diaper, do a running motion with his legs to strengthen them. He continued to grow and learned to talk and walk, and now he runs. It has been a hard road for him, yet he remembers to take his medications. With every challenge that comes along, Devin smiles and keeps going forward. He has a great love of animals, even my 100+lb bull mastiff. They play so good together that we got him an English boxer that he loves dearly named Sadie. Occasionally, he has a seizure and requires a hospital stay, so we made it a fun thing. When he is in the hospital, we get him a gift. Remote control cars are probably the best liked item. An example of his love, my husband gave us a scare a few weeks ago and ended up spending a night in the hospital. And guess what he got, a teddy bear and a car magazine from Devin. He is now 11 years

29 old with a birthday just around the corner. I spend some weekends keeping Devin. We work on building or making something. He loves making some crafts for mom, grandma – Sue. He does good at his classes at school. He surprises me every day; for example, he will text me because my number is programmed into it. He cannot spell, so my text will be a bunch of random letters and numbers. That’s the best text I could get. When I have him, he must carry my phone with him; it’s so sweet. When I became disabled this past spring from an on the job injury, I thought and prayed as to what I should do. I loved my job for the past 20+ years in Auto Parts but knew I could not do that again. It came to me after handling vacation bible school that I needed to go into a career that allows me to give back to the children of this world. I have started college here, and I am working on my basic classes. When I have a rough day, I think about him and know that’s the reason I’m here!

Photo submitted by Malia Scott 30 Grazing the Surface Anonymous we took a trip and you looked at me you said let’s do something crazy we made a plan to build a life I’ll be your perfect wife and I was not same after that we had two good years, when did it change maybe it was boredom you put in your veins blinded me with reasons and lies maybe you wanted to protect me from yourself you promised things would be the same after that you must have fallen out of touch with the love that we planned to have there is still so much more to give then I saw you lying on the floor how could our lives be the same after that I said all the words that I knew would hurt for the pain I didn’t want to feel alone tears don’t take that away words won’t help you did that to me you had to better yourself so you went away for a while I never closed the door all the way but it will never be the same after that

31 Getting Down to Business Cheryl D. Coffman

Thomas Johnson let out a slow groan as he rolled over in the bed attempt- ing to squeeze a few more minutes of sleep into his night. His body ached, and his hands were cracked and sore. He slowly opened and shut his hands and felt something sticky pulling away in his left hand. Thomas let out another groan as he kicked the covers off and tried to focus his eyes on his left hand. Sure enough the scabs on the blisters cracked and bled during the night. He slowly spoke the words that had been swimming in his mind for days; “Why in the world did I promise Mother that I would help Pops this summer around the ranch?” In the back of his mind, Thomas knew why he was helping. Pops was pay- ing a large part of his college tuition so that the only grandson could fulfill his dream. Pops was never able to finish college, and he wants Thomas to have a quality education. There came a tap on the door. “Thomas, I have breakfast on the table.” Pops poured the coffee while Thomas reached across the table to stab two buckwheat pancakes. His hands were stiff, and he dropped a pancake on the table and spilled his glass of milk into Pop’s empty plate. Pops grabbed the glass and laughed. “We are lucky today it all went onto the plate.” Thomas groaned, sat back down, and said, “Sorry Pops, I’ll get you a clean dish.” He cleared his throat as he placed a clean plate in front of his grandfather. “What’s new for today, Pops?” “Well, we won’t have anything new for another week .We will have to complete cleaning out all the barns, spread chicken litter, lime, and fertilizer on the hay and corn fields, and then move the heifers to the east pasture. Sometime before Friday afternoon, we will need to load that big Hereford bull and carry him over to Loudon. I told Daniel Sims that I would have him delivered by the end of the week.” Thomas attempted to hide his left hand from Pops’s eyes, but that was impossible. For an old man in his 70’s, his eyes were as sharp as ever, and nothing missed Pops’s inspection or comment. “When we are finished eating, I need to look at your hands and work some ointment into those cracks.” Thomas felt ashamed. Pops had bought him a gift of an expensive pair of leather work gloves for the summer. He bragged that he was able to work and did not have to wear those hot gloves and then tossed them in the back seat of the Jeep. Pops looked at him and never said a word. “Pops, I guess I was wrong about not wearing the gloves, I’m sorry.” “Thomas, this summer you will find that working on a ranch will change a lot of your ideas about this world and the importance of work.” “I still want to go into business when I graduate in a couple of years, not shovel out barns. I am sure that this ranch work will not change my mind.”

32 “Thomas, your childhood summer visits only gave you a peek at the ranching business. Your mother knows from growing up here that ranching is all business and hard work. You have to be a smart business man or you will lose your shirt as well as the farm. Why do you think your mother agreed for you to spend the summer working here instead of going to summer school?” Thomas laughed; “Because I was flunking history and psychology, and she wanted to punish me for the entire summer?” As they walked out the back door, Pops put his arm on Thomas’s broad shoulder and said, “Your grandmother died too soon, and I was too busy to see how sick she was. Her life insurance money enabled your mother to go to dental school and open her own practice. Your mother has worked very hard and long to build up her practice. Thomas, we all have worked hard through the years. Your parents see so much potential in you just as we all do. It is your choice to suffer through this summer or learn to enjoy the hard work and what it has for your mind, body, and soul. God is here and willing to bless you, son. The choice is yours to make; be miserable or content where God has placed you.” Thomas looked down at his gauze wrapped around his left hand. He flexed it and felt pain as the ointment seeped into raw flesh. Pops pulled the truck up to Barn A and looked over to Thomas. “It looks like your day will be slow working with that hand. Now this job that you detest will be prolonged for another day. Thomas, we must have the barns cleaned. Disease breeds in dirty barns.” Thomas reached in the back seat for his gloves. “Pops, can I use the Caterpillar to work in the barns today?” “I’ll tell you what, for today you can load that pile of chicken litter behind barn B into the dump truck and then drive it out to the back pasture and spread it. I’ll finish up in here.” Thomas felt a sense of dread by the tone of Pops’s voice; he had a gut feeling that this job was not going to be any easier than cleaning out barns. By noon, the diesel fumes from the front end loader and the foul smelling litter that blew back in his face when he lifted the scoop over the side of the truck had taken its toll. His head ached, and his hand had bled through the bandage and the glove. They sat on the porch keeping their dirty clothes out of the house. The ceiling fan kept them cool while the iced tea washed down dirt and grime. When they had finished eating their sandwiches and the bandages were changed, Pops spoke, “Thomas it looks like you are all in but your shoe laces. Let’s take off to town this afternoon and deliver that bull. We can take in a movie at the mall and then eat pizza.” Thomas jumped up when Pops suggested an afternoon diversion with a break from work. By the time he reached the handle of the screen door, he stopped and looked back at Pops. “This is a trick, isn’t it? If we spend the afternoon in town, the work won’t get done, and the rain is coming Friday evening. We need to have all the litter

33 scattered before that load of lime is spread tomorrow. You can deliver the bull, Pops. I’ll stay here and finish.” Pops stood up and smiled at Thomas. “Now you are thinking like a business man, Thomas. You are right; everything on a ranch has to be done in its own time, no matter how tired we are or how much our hands bleed. The bull can wait until Friday.” *****************************************************

Thomas carefully climbed down the side of the brand new John Deere combine. Matthew, one of the summer interns, quickly followed down the ladder, and they walked together over to the university owned Jeep Cherokee parked in the shade. Thomas removed his gloves, shook off the dust, and then reached inside the large orange cooler and retrieved three cold soft drinks. Matthew grabbed two and opened one and let the cold contents splash all over his hot face. Ashley called out, “Hello, you two hard working men!” Matthew walked over to the window and offered Ashley the other cold drink. “I have been sitting up there bored watching Dr. Johnson combine these beans all morning. What have you been lucky enough to do?” Ashley looked away and spoke, “Dr. Johnson, the commodities report that you wanted came in this morning. I thought that you might like to see it. It looks like the beans here on the university campus will meet the prescribed quota, but the two experiment fields in Dixon are way below production goals. What does this mean for the research project?”

34 Thomas smiled at his intern; “Ashley, where did you learn to read these reports?” “My grandfather taught all the grandchildren a lot about ranching and our family business.” Thomas closed the back of the Jeep and then walked around to the other window and took a long drink of his sports drink. “Good for you, Ashley. I too was blessed to have a wise grandfather that taught me valuable lessons about life and ranching.” Matthew, eagerly trying to impress Ashley, asked, “What were some of those lessons you learned, Dr. Johnson?” Slowly, Thomas looked over at Matthew’s soda stained face and then back at Ashley. “Well first, don’t be in such a big hurry and spill your milk, and no matter the job, always wear your gloves. Matthew, the third one was a hard lesson. If you want to make a good impression on the boss, your professor, or a pretty girl, you must first learn how to do the job correctly. Save your flowery words for after you have proved that you can work well.” Ashley laughed out loud and said, “Those were my grandfather’s sentiments, work first, and talk later.” “Now let me look at that report. You must remember, Ashley, that this is only one piece of information in a complex process. It may tell us a lot or it may continue to be just another piece in the research puzzle.”

Photo submitted by Barbara Schooley 35 An Injustice to Yourself Audrey Beaver

Why is it so difficult for churches of the same faith and belief to unite? How come there is a church on every corner preaching the same discourse out of the same book? Different interpretations, you say?! Blasphemy!! Just one central idea is what they wish to convey, give us your winnings and join our association... don’t go to the other guy, we pray! Like a huge billboard advertising a business, let’s build a skyscraper so I can say mine is bigger than yours! What happened to worship as you see fit and a personal relationship? It has all turned into a political feast of fortune. The charm, luring you in from all directions, just waiting for the helpless and vulnerable. Will you succumb or be steadfast to your creed? For you, they will try like hell to do the deed.

Photo submitted by Delota Litte 36 Cloud Watching Audrey Beaver

Brown eyed and starry eyed two cats, a husband, and a home is where we all reside. Too many thoughts running around upstairs got to jot them down just to be prepared. Managing life in the fast lane not an easy task, have no time to explain. Of average height for an American I suppose, wish I could travel the world is what I propose. Easy going and down to earth but double-cross me and you are liable to get hurt. Do everything with passion and love is the name of my game, garbage in garbage out, it’s all the same. Thinking of my future and hope what lies in store is a career in teaching, the money doesn’t matter any more. Some things are more important like educating the present, OH LOOK!!! There goes a pheasant! Anyway, as I was saying... No, I’m just a simple gal with good morals and values alike, if you will excuse me now, I think I’ll go fly a kite.

37 An Instructor’s Fortress of Solitude Audrey Beaver

There are many upstairs and down, I chose to go up since everyone else went out and around. In one of the cold corridors there lies a room, cooler still. The hum of a space heater is trying to shake the chill. It is a small space, that’s for sure, however, bright and uncluttered (one of the few) I’ve endured. Papers filed away, books placed neatly on shelves, but by the end of the semester it will be a different story to tell. While classical music plays softly in the background, I reposition in the squeaky, worn out chair that is definitely showing its age. With the scent of taquitos freshly nuked to perfection in front of me, my taste buds ignite at the sight of the sodium filled delights. The smooth sleek feel of the desk is where countless hours have been spent, grading papers, typing emails, and in short enriching my life is the intent. An educator’s job is never done, Every day it has only just begun.

38 Destiny Awaits Audrey Beaver

Once there was a bag In a vending machine, he did hang. Surrounded by other snacks, “I want out!” they all sang. Now this bag watched as person after person would drop their money in for a treat, but no one would pick him..... so he sighed in defeat. But what’s this?! A little girl asks mommy for some change, her fingers reach to push the magic letter and number combination. “Look! I’m free!”, he exclaimed. As he pushed forward, “Oh no!” he cried. For the rings would not let him go. “I’m stuck,” he says, while swinging to and fro. Suddenly, there is a loud bang from up above. The machine is moving back and forth from side to side. “What is happening?” he cries. And then he drops down to the bottom where a hand grabs at him anxiously. A thing of joy this bag be. But only to be consumed by a child. What a pointless destiny...

39 Running Behind Audrey Beaver

Late again for class Running as fast as you can The door locks anyway

Photo submitted by Tabatha Summers 40 Issues Audrey Beaver

You hide from me and from others I suppose You emit darkness all around But a light that I chose I told you I would never change you unless you got in my way Back and forth we go throughout the day Why do you stand there? Have you nothing to say?! Move aside curtain, it is the start of a new day!

41 Mysterious World Unknown Audrey Beaver

Among all the painted faces Beyond the colorful costumes Contortionists are not the only sights to behold Death defying feats Emotional skits abound Fortune tellers hold your future Grasping the concept is not as easy as it seems Hot flames put out by fire eaters I wonder what it would be like to join Jugglers flair with precision and delight KOOZA is my favorite so far Lovely artistry being played out effortlessly Magic is definitely in the air Never forgetting the danger at stake Oh please, encore if you dare Playfully touching at imagination within my mind Quickly eager to return with more Renewing the sight of beauty in human art forms So graceful how they all fly Tightrope walkers balance on chairs while on the line Under the Grand Chapiteau Voices sing up to the heavens Waiting for the next wonder to arrive Xenophobia does not exist among the troupe Yearning to be a part of this world Zealous to witness more

Photo submitted by Meagan Frey 42 An Every Year Affair Audrey Beaver

Out I say! To the annoying germs inside me today. Out I say! Why won’t my white blood cells keep you at bay? Out I say! Tissues and cough drops are the remedy every day. Out I say! I am tired (literally) of feeling this way. Out I say! Up all night with you at play. Out I say! When will relief come for me? I pray. Out I say! What point do you have to stay? Out I say! My body is beginning to fray. Out I say! My immune system stands to fight and for you , germs, it will come to slay. Out I say! On my tissue, there you are on display. Eww!!

43 Unwanted Knocks on My Door Kayla Cantrell

I hear a knock on my door And my feet do hit the floor From where I jumped off my bed Now dizziness is in my head I run through the house Being rather loud I open the door and who’s in front of me? Not anyone I want to see I slam the door in their face And hope that they will leave this place So I lie back on my bed And thoughts run through my head I guess I should have helped that guy He looked as if about to cry But then there’s another knock on my door My feet again hit the floor I open it and who’s in front of me? Not anyone I want to see Instead it’s just a little girl She looks like someone’s crashed her world The word “help” comes from her lips But I remember how I hate kids So once again I slam the door in her face And hope that she will leave this place Then as I pick my feet up off the floor Another knock comes from my door This time I do not even run My legs feel like they weigh a ton So I open the door and who’s in front of me? Not anyone I want to see This time it’s an old lady I look at her like she’s crazy Because I’m sick of random people showing up here But then I notice that she’s in tears But I tell her I can’t help her out Because my own problems are what I’m worried about

44 So I slam the door right in her face And hope that she will leave this place Before I even turn around A knock comes that sounds so profound I open the door and cry out, “What?” Then realize who is standing in that spot So who is here in front of me? Someone I’m ashamed to see Because I’m afraid He’s seen what I’ve been doing And realize there is trouble brewing Why do I feel shamed alone? Because Jesus is standing in front of my home But instead of yelling He gives me a hug And all I see around Him is love Then I become completely meek When these words Jesus Christ does speak “Kayla, you’ve really let me down But I still don’t want you to frown Because I know you feel bad in your heart So there at least that is a start And I still love you through it all Though lately you have seemed to fall But now it’s time for Me to go But I simply wanted you to know That you’re too preoccupied with everything else to see That all those people you didn’t help were Me.”

Photo submitted by Peggy Crisp 45 OUT OF SIGHT AND OUT OF MIND Kayla Cantrell

I know you sin I know you lie I’ve seen remorse I’ve seen you cry But, daughter, please tell Me How can I prove That I have forgotten So why haven’t you? I know your requests I’ve heard your prayers I see how you feel I’m completely aware But, daughter, please tell Me How can I prove That I have forgotten So why haven’t you? You’re not a bad person Though you think you are I love you no matter Your flaws or your scars But, daughter, please tell Me How can I prove That I have forgotten So why haven’t you? You know I’ve forgiven you You know that I love you You know all’s in the past I got over it fast So, daughter, please tell Me How can I prove That it’s done, over, forgotten? So why can’t you forget too?

46 And He Shall Be Called…The Great I CAN Kayla Cantrell

Why are you sitting there crying alone? Why should these feelings be written in stone? What makes you feel lonely and your face look sad? Why are you focused on only the bad? Because, daughter, don’t you see that right here I’m sitting beside you ready to wipe away all the tears? Why do you think something’s wrong with you? Why do you wonder what to fix this you should do? Why are you so angry and mad at everyone? Don’t you remember the world was conquered by My Son? Because, daughter, don’t you see that here now The world sits in My hands while the angels bow down? Why do you harm yourself and hurt what I’ve made? Why do you keep forgetting that your soul I have saved? Why do you avoid speaking to Me because you’re ashamed? Why don’t you realize that I share in your pain? Because, daughter, don’t you see that at this moment I’ve already given all your sins My atonement? But, wait, before you answer these questions yourself Please answer the biggest one that I have yet dealt Daughter, why do you wonder and still not see That none of these questions are as mighty as Me?

47 Girl, You Need to Shut Up Kayla Cantrell

Today, all day, all it did was rain And today, all day, I just complained But somewhere out there where the rain poured Was someone who needed the rain from the Lord And what did God do to add to my luck? Well, He said, “I love you,” instead of, “Shut up” There are people out there starving with broken hearts And I complain because we don’t have strawberry Pop-Tarts But somewhere out there were people to help God gave His people caring hearts that at sadness would melt And what did God do to add to my luck? Well, He said, “I love you,” instead of, “Shut up” Many people died today and went straight to hell And I was angry because I broke a fingernail But somewhere out there are people to witness They help all the lost get good spiritual fitness And what did God do to add to my luck? Well, He said, “I love you,” instead of, “Shut up” So thinking of this I’m changing my mind I don’t have it bad; there’s no reason to whine So now God’s throwing me a well needed curve He’s saying, “I love you,” Instead of the, “Shut up” that I really deserve

48 Help Me Lord Lauralyn Anderson

Help me Lord to let him go The thoughts that anguish me Why do I think upon his ways When you have set me free So many questions I want to ask Answers I may never find Somehow believing if I know his truth He’ll fade far from my mind It shouldn’t matter what he does Our life together is done Clearly he’s made another choice You have given me legs to run Run into your open arms Yes, that’s what I should do Why do I stop and hesitate After all you’ve seen me through I need healing for this broken heart My mind to be soothed with peace Then I can look ahead with promise And celebrate my release I believe that now I can let him go Thoughts no longer afflicting me Not focused on his reckless ways But on the way from You to me

49 Poor Pretty Blonde Lauralyn Anderson

Poor pretty blonde So ignorantly misled Some cowboy Casanova Has filled her dreamy head Loaded his possessions And moved right on in Why’s that pretty blonde Wasting time with him? Here’s a big stone Hang it round your neck Sure to end up sinking Cowboy brings a shipwreck Now fun and the dance Keeps the blonde in tow But when the music ends Time to reap what you sow Poor, pretty blonde Her life is now cursed Soon she will realize She should have called the nurse

50 Tuesday Morn Lauralyn Anderson

Sitting at my desk On this Tuesday morn At peace and feeling happy This hasn’t been my norm It seems so many things In my life have not gone right Yet, today I’m loving life Flying high as a kite It’s not my circumstances Didn’t win the lottery But somewhere deep within My soul is burden free Living for today Learning from my past Looking to the future Believing love will last

51 Mother Dear Lauralyn Anderson

Mother, Mom, Ma or Mother Dear, However you say it one thing is crystal clear. Mother is giving, unselfish to the bone, Still loves me as a child, even though I’m grown. A protector, a fortress, always lends a helping hand; And when I’m falling down, she pulls me to a stand. While at times I may have thought she was a little tough, It was only because she knows life and times are rough. We’ve had our disagreements and waged our battles too; But one thing remains our mother-daughter love is true. With fondness of heart there is one thing I pray, Her life be richly blessed each and every day.

52 Speed Dial Lauralyn Anderson

Always on the other end Never misses my call There to lend a helping hand Lifts me when I fall Listens through the tears Gives me needed strength Helps me overcome my fears Goes to any length Speaks the truth in love Even if it hurts God’s gift from above Off her back she’d give her shirt When I am rude And neglect how she feels No matter what my attitude Her love for me is REAL I can only hope these words On this day to honor mothers Let her rest assured Wouldn’t have any other Thank God for speed dial My lifeline through it all Hanging up with a smile So glad that I called

Photo submitted by Meagan Frey 53 Bermuda Blues Lauralyn Anderson

Desperate for a vacation Wishing I could fly right out of here An issue with my cash flow Craving water blue and clear Decided I’d make my own plan No need to fly high on that jet Seeking the pools of blue Bermuda Perhaps a vacation yet Oh, shades of blue Bermuda Need to find some Bermuda blues No sense wallowing and fretting If there’s a pool to dive into Now please don’t get me wrong Just looking for some time away And if Bermuda blues provide that I’ll get lost in blue today As if looking into the ocean Standing on the island shore When I need another vacation I’ll come knocking at your door Oh, shades of blue Bermuda Need to find some Bermuda blues No sense wallowing and fretting If there’s a pool to dive into No sense wallowing and fretting When Bermuda is so blue

54 Street Glide Lauralyn Anderson

Street glide Ridden with pride Humbled By the rumble Water wings Merriment it brings Sun streaming down Cruisin’ the town Helmet hair Who cares? Black leather Tames weather Sittin’ pretty Touring the city Pause for a few Draw in the view Smoothly swerve Maneuver the curve Lovin’ the ride Street glide

55 Trunkin’ Lauralyn Anderson

What is another man’s treasure They say is one man’s junk We gals call it trunkin’ Cures our momentary funk Buzzing through the thrift stores What might we find there? But to me of most importance The together time we share Swapping out our treasures In her home then in mine Fun with my trunkin’ buddy A treasure hard to find Today she spies a bargain Half price always brings a smile Sharing in her excitement She goes the extra mile Tomorrow may be my turn For my score she is glad So thankful for my best friend And the trunkin’ times we’ve had. Looking forward to the next time And what things we may acquire Knowing nothing is a valuable As the friend who I admire Here’s to what is priceless A bargain which cannot be bought Thanks to God for His great blessing Giving me the friend I’ve sought

Photo submitted by Amber Hornsby 56 Fashion Statement Lauralyn Anderson

Hail to assistants everywhere! Connoisseurs of hat fashion with extra special flair. An array of diverse hats we so fashionably wear; Because of us, some bosses still have their hair. Most days we are more than happy to serve; But truth be told, you can get on our last nerve. Sometimes we’d like a little pat on the back; But don’t you worry, we’re not about to slack. Now don’t get me wrong; we’re thankful for our work. And we’ll manage to put up with co-workers’ little quirks. Multitasking is our specialty, but not our only one; Oftentimes with gritted teeth, we get the job done. If you are privileged enough to enjoy the work you do, You’ll find yourself fulfilled when the work day is through. But, if in sheer frustration you’re pulling out your hair; Make a fashion statement – give the boss your hat to wear!

57 Alphabet Poem Lena Osment

Accounting bites! Constant, damned, excruciating, frustrating, growing headache! It’s just killing Lena’s mind now. Obtaining peaceful, quiet, restful snoring through unexpected, vaunted, wonderful Xanax! Yes—Zenith!

Photo submitted by Meagan Frey 58 The Knife Lena Osment

The Hustle, the bustle, why was life so busy? By the end of the day, her head was dizzy She was unstable she knew, too many responsibilities and a kid She never got a break, so her emotions she hid She drove them down deep, some painful, most bad But she appeared every day, not a worry, never sad She became almost robotic, no emotions, just stone But at night she would cry herself to sleep all alone Finally, no longer could she take this life’s strife That’s when she fell in love with the knife Little slices and cuts made her feel so alive This was her release from her troubled life’s strive Soon, it became hard to hide from the scar Was she addicted to the knife, had she taken it too far? She didn’t know how to release her feelings, the knife she could not quit So her lover, her knife, killed her with that too deep of a slit

59 Haiku Lena Osment

Sun Coloring my skin Gleaming, shimmering, so warm Oh sun, I love you Water Refreshingly cool Clear, crisp, clean, healthy, and smooth Wonderful water Air I need you to live Without you I would be dead Air, you make me live Earth They call you mother You have suffered a long time Be nice to our earth

Photo submitted by Donald Burk 60 Dark over Light Lena Osment

The sun rises wearily, painting the land, Turning night to day; taking earth’s cooling shade, Leaving its shadows, beckoning them to fade. Progressively heating as bare feet in the sand, Bright, piercing, like a loud trumpeting band, Blue skies, radiance; no darkness to wade. The earth feels dirty, like the color of jade, Perspiration secretes, it’s wretchedness to stand. At last, the glowing fades as if defect; The sun is drifting, inferior to what’s imminent in the sky; Dusk devours the earth like a vampire at a neck, As sunlight says demising day’s goodbye. Again darkness invades, a welcomed spec; Night’s dark engulfs–and may it never die.

Photo submitted by Chase Wyatt 61 Letter Poem Lena Osment

Dear Retirement, Although we are years apart, I will need you one day When I grow old, fragile, and my hair turns grey I should have thought of you sooner and been saving for you I wish I had started earlier, at the age twenty-two I’m sorry—I’ve only been back to work for a few years, I spent years raising children, which I hold so close and dear It’s back to college, and to work, to find that one position That will fulfill future needs; I think it’s a good decision Life threw obstacles in my path and in my way I’m trying to save for you now, out of my pay I don’t have a 401K, (I wish I did), or a special plan I hope to one day, so life doesn’t spiral out of hand Most people depend on the government for retirement cash Before I turn 65, that system will probably crash I hope you’re waiting on me, in several years we’ll be together I hope you’re large enough by then, to take care of me forever Your Future Retiree

62 The Age of Seasons Lena Osment

We think of spring as new life, As an infant in the womb We think of winter as death The dead being entombed We think of youth as summer; Hormones making us dumber Adulthood would be like fall, Aging, changing, for us all

Photo submitted by Alex Clark 63 Just Another Girl Tabatha Summers

Put on your brave face Hide your tears from the world Make them all think That you’re just another girl Because they can’t stand your pain They can’t see your heart And they don’t realize That it’s been torn apart No one sees the fear No one can know why And they won’t believe that Such a strong girl can cry Because that mask you wore Has become who you are Your shielding wall has turned To crush your own heart So just pretend you’re strong That nothing gets you down And paste that confidence Right over your frown So that they’ll never know So that they’ll be surprised The day that you’re gone And they never realized You just put on your brave face Hid your tears from the world Somehow made them think That you were just another girl

64 What It Means to Remember Tabatha Summers

He always seemed unbreakable As strong as steel A commander of respect Who bowed his head before a meal He tried so hard to teach us Though not all cared to learn But now, if we have questions, To whom may we yet turn? He spoke the truth in candor Yet encouraged us to weigh Those truths we chose to accept And what we cast away He could impose order Even on our crazy crowd And when he said “Good evening,” You had to answer loud. By word and by example He taught us how to live: A sober tone, a smirk and laugh, Help and advice to give. So I wonder, would he be proud Of all that we now know? Or would he wish for one more chance His wisdom to bestow?

65 My Hypocrisy Tabatha Summers

I smile and I even laugh while my heart within me bleeds I stand straight and proud and tall but inside I’m on my knees I joke with those I love but in my mind I cry I look so free and full of life while behind the smile I die People think I’m strong but I’ve never felt so weak They say I’m never at a loss but I can’t get what I seek I seem to speak my mind though my heart itself is dumb You see a girl enjoying life when I really feel so numb The retorts you take as wit are to hide the stabbing pain You say my smile brings sunshine but to me, it’s always rain I act like I’m straightforward as I hide myself away I retract but don’t regret the things I sometimes say The reason that I never cry is that I have no tears left to shed Physical wounds are nothing because of how my heart has bled And lifted high above it all is my claim of honesty My words are true but my actions prove my own hypocrisy

66 The World Tabatha Summers

The shadows all about us Still try to draw us in To make our hearts to sorrow To break us down like them We walk through this world In a crowd but all alone The people all about us Have come and they have gone There is no greater constant Within the world than pain For everyone must feel it And most will pass the blame From the lips of trusted mentors Deception can be heard; And do not our lifelong friends Most hurt us with their words? Self-righteous lies flow freely But the truth may still be heard: Each of us has our own dreams And one can change the world

Photo submitted by Brittany Allen 67 Willow Tabatha Summers

O beautiful willow Why do you weep? Is it the burden Of secrets you keep? Or perhaps you gather Unspeakable fears Over the passing Of uncounted years Your flowing branches Now hang limp and bare Where before tiny leaves And sparrows were there With the coming of winter You always look sad Did something once happen To make it seem bad? But you do not answer Your secrets you keep So still I must wonder Why do you weep?

Photo submitted by Caitlin Swanson 68 Desires Tabatha Summers

Nothing ever lasts As long as humans desire We desire too much

Drawing by Brandy Baggett 69 Fidelity Tabatha Summers

Hearts should be guarded by walls of steel From arrows of others’ untrustworthy souls For they have the power to leave gaping holes That only most masterful hands can heal. Smooth-talking predators deliver their spiel, Thinking themselves kings while really they’re voles, Playing their parts like good little moles, Forming villainous threats that are oh so real. Yet we trust those who have not yet earned That virtue whose worth is more than their lives; We hand out our hearts to those who have yearned To get in close, hoping we won’t be spurned. And so despite the odds, humanity thrives, Healing ourselves every time we are burned

70 Sweet Memories Tabatha Summers

Your gravestone I carved by hand The letters clearly wrote So others could forever see Your name beneath the note “Loved by all” indeed you were And you shall be long missed For all your dedication and The sweetness of your kiss Now I set up the stone and even Bird-songs seem like cries For there beneath the headstone Your body does not lie Gone but not forgotten You shall always be And no one shall ever Take you away from me Because cupcakes just don’t have The same maker to meet But every memory of you Shall always be so sweet

Photo submitted by Lita Connolly-Brown 71 The Beat of the Student Center Tabatha Summers

The couch beneath me softly creaks It knows quite well my weight For this is the place I sit Each and every day Across from me, a plain white wall But above that, windows clear And through them, I see the sky Each day of the school year From my right, I smell fries, Hear Sasha’s voice ring Taking orders and cracking jokes As the cash register chings Occasionally, a clacking sound Is heard above the noise With the swearing and the laughter; The pool table’s playing the boys My fingers tap on leather, Cool and cracked but smooth Ever since they moved the snack machines, My sweet tooth’s more simply soothed But now that I think of food, It seems much more divine The microwave beeps and up I leap - This time, the food is mine!

72 A Walk through the Woods Tabatha Summers

A blanket of pine needles coats the ground Too soft and damp to make a sound Browns of needles and fallen trees Encompass all that the eye sees Up to the sky and its cool gray And tiny green shafts pushing needles away Even in winter, the trees are alive Over the years, they’ve learned to thrive The branches snag and pull at my hair The briars catch my clothes, trying to keep me there Still I walk in silent boots through the hollow Taking the trails that no one else follows The beautiful silence is broken by the wind Scents of wood and leaves it carries within And the dull roar of engines calling me away Though it’s here in the forest that I long to stay I lift my eyes to see over the pines And see the buildings looming beside Nature encroached by concrete giants And tainted by refuse of noncompliants I pick up the litter and stand with a sigh It’s painful to see treatment of nature so awry But I am one person; there’s little I can do Without the help of others like you

Photo submitted by Jigna Patel 73 Bleeding Wrath Tabatha Summers

Anger breathes crafty demise, Etching forthcoming gravestones, Hoarding introverted justice. Knives leave marks Never-ending, only permanent, Quickly reaching satisfaction - Triumph - Ultimate vengeance. Withered xenophobes; Youthful zealots.

Photo submitted by Christy Young 74 No More Tabatha Summers

Baby, please just stop your yelling I ain’t buying what you’re selling No more, no more You still want me here beside you But I won’t be undervalued No more, no more Though I don’t like feeling hated I won’t be manipulated No more, no more My heart inside me is yearning These tears in my eyes are burning No more, no more Because I’m alive and I am free And I don’t want you next to me No more, no more No more fighting, no more hurting No more thinking that I’m worthless No more, no more Let it be over, let me go free Loosen your cold death-grip on me No more, no more Or I will end it forever You won’t be my puppet master No more, no more

75 Prose Poem Paragraph Form Anonymous

Dear Forbidden Fruit: I passed you by at first never noticing your brilliance. I never noticed anything special about you really. As I walked by again, you fell in front of me, rolling gently across my path. I reached over and picked you up, and the sun’s reflection formed a smile for you, as if you approved of your rescuer. You were cold to the touch, and I almost immediately put you back down into the bowl from which you had fallen. Yet, that sunny “smile” caught my eye, forcing my gaze upon the window from which it had been stolen. The warmth of the rays engulfed me as I held you in my hand, and for a brief moment, it was just me holding you and wondering, “Is this forbidden fruit? Is it mine or has someone else left it behind by mistake?” By the time you had warmed up to my touch, I glanced back down and realized you were meant to be mine. Why else would you have rolled into my path? Then, because my stomach’s hunger screamed away my reluctance, I bit into you. Immediate satisfaction came over me, as I had never tasted anything quite like you. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sweetness, juiciness, texture; all were like no other fruit she had ever experienced. Yet each one spoke to different parts of her needs. The sweetness spoke to her taste that had experienced nothing but sourness lately. The texture was new and different, and she was amazed at how quickly she adapted to it. The juiciness was the most amazing part of all – causing her mouth to water, spilling out over her chin like an out-of-control river. All three just made her want more and more. Therefore, she quietly walked away, hiding the apple in her hand in hope the rightful owner didn’t see. She knew it would be reclaimed quickly even if the bite were taken out of it. She made her way to an empty room and consumed her treasure slowly to savor all that she had experienced in that first taste. Each bite to her amazement was tastier and more filling than the last. She knew she would ruin her appetite for the nutritious meal waiting at home. Nevertheless, it was leftovers, and she planned on picking at it without being obvious that her appetite had already been satisfied. So she took it all in and knew the apple had wanted her to find it because it had gone to great extremes to seduce her grasp, and with the sunny “smile,” it helped convince her that she was indeed hungry even though she had no appetite before this. She smiled as she realized all she experienced, and how satisfied it made her feel. Never before had she felt all her nutrition had been met from such a small meal. That night as she faced her leftover meal from the night before, she tried to be hungry, but all she could think of was the magnificent apple. Her mind let her relive every bite – so much, that her mouth watered to the point of once again, dripping off her chin.

76 She blinked and her leftovers were staring back at her making her realize she was losing her mind over something so small, something that wasn’t even hers to take to eat. As she sat there in disbelief of her silliness, her stomach began to burn. Then it began to make noises she had never heard before. Soon, she was bent over in pain, tears now dropping from the chin where succulent apple juices earlier had made their grand appearance. She felt she was being poisoned. How could something so good hurt her so much? Her bowels moved like platelets in the earth causing her to shudder and shake like she was in an earthquake. She screamed in pain and blinked away tears through which she could still see her leftovers. Why did she reach for that apple? Why did she believe it was hers for the taking? Why did it fall in her path if she wasn’t supposed to take it? And why was it making her so violently ill? Maybe it was because she knew better. She knew her loyalty was to her leftovers – her husband. She knew that the apple – her lover – belonged to someone else. It was a gut wrenching lesson she would never forget. He looked like all she wanted. He felt like all she needed. He was a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It was he that had devoured her and not the other way around. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ And so Forbidden Fruit, I know you are not what you seem. I know you are poison with a grand smile. I will not bite again. Instead, you will rot in front of me if ever you cross my path again. Good-Bye, Your Dismissed Opportunity for Happiness

77 ABC’s of What Is Real Anonymous

Another day has yawned to life Beckoning more thoughts of you Can’t stop these constant visions Don’t have control of my own feelings Exasperating memories flood into my soul Floundering to achieve normalcy of life Grasping at the truth, trying to make sense of it all Hoping one day you will explain why you are gone Ignoring all notions that prove you were fake Justifying my actions that were all so wrong Kindness in your eyes was what captivated me Loving you breathed life back into my being Mesmerized by every word you spoke Never thinking it would all come to an end Opposing anything that stood for reasons to say no Provoking you to see me time and time again Quick to hush the moral voice within Repulsed by thoughts of losing you Seducing moves that we both made Tantalizing each other into submission Under pressure from our real responsibilities Vicious judges spouting hate for what we had Wanting it all to be so easy and okay X marking the painful heart you left behind Yearning for one more chance to be in your arms Zero time spent together, knowing real is all that’s left

78 Life of a Tree Lita Connolly-Brown

The green emerges From your branches You stretch and yawn Reach to the sky The days grow hotter You bloom and grow The fragrance engulfs you Full and bright Grows ever colder The nights are long You color fades Your blossoms gone Now you chill Your leaves have fallen Branches bare Dormant sleep Wait for weather That of your liking To spring to life And grow anew

Photo submitted by Peggy Crisp 79 Truth Lita Connolly-Brown

Blooming With Delight Tries to thrive but has to fight Burns without a chance

80 Perspective Lita Connolly-Brown

That which of love we perceive It wraps in its embrace What is it that we face? But with our life what we receive What color is our sleeve? Of that we chase The gentle brush of lace But do they always leave This thing we have What does it mean? They love and then depart But never is it drab It is what I’ve seen The beauty of my heart

81 Do You See Me? Lita Connolly-Brown

Do you See me? I loom over Your life every day but do you notice That I am there? I cause the shadow hanging Above you. But do you ever stop to think of Me? I have watched you day by day I see you cry, I see you Laugh I have your life before me I have Watched You grow From very Small. I’ve Seen you age You go through Life and I stand watch But have you ever noticed me?

82 Voiceless Lita Connolly-Brown

The heart has a voice It has a will It has a choice I have no voice I have no will I have no choice

Photo submitted by Laura Cash 83 The Fyre Eli W. Beard (with apologies to William Blake)

Fyre, fyre burning bright, In the forest late at night, What familiar talking bear Could kindle you deceptively? In what hollow tree trunk lies, Books of matches in disguise Waiting to be struck by him, The “smoky bear” with hat green-brimmed? Pyromania is his art, The burning craving in his heart A hypocrite, he is a liar He says, “Prevent the forest fire.” What’s his fuel? Gasoline? Is his conscience pure and clean? What the lighter? Is it Bic? That tempts his paw a spark to flick? When the rangers come a-racing, Forest now no longer blazing, Did they smile, or did they see, The plan for job security? Fyre, fyre burning bright, In the forest late at night, What familiar talking bear, Dare kindle you deceptively?

Photo submitted by Michelle Williamson 84 Ode to Alcoholism Logan Gibson a beer can drains empty, fear gains, hope initiates jealousy kneads leaving me needing one pint, quickly, red stripe, that’s unopposed vastly waiting XO yearning zen

Photo submitted by Meagan Frey 85 ABC’s Of You Savannah Cass

Amazing right down to the core Breathtaking to be in your presence Caring in ways I never thought possible Dedicated to me in ways I don’t deserve Everything I will ever need or want Flexible to meet my every need Gorgeous with those big brown eyes Happy with the simple things I do I honestly think I’m still falling for you Joking and laughing at my corny jokes Knowing you’re the one who loves me most Looking into my eyes knowing this is where you belong Mocking me so I’ll smile or laugh Never knowing how much you mean to me Open to new things and want isn’t you Promising to make me the happiest I’ve ever been Quietly whispering the words I need to hear Resting your head on my shoulder when you begin to cry Sleeping next to me silently beautiful Touching my cheek softly with a grin Underneath the spell I’ve casted Victories in our silly games Wonderful in your own special ways X-mas morning, perfect gift of God Yawning as you wake Zipping your jacket because you’re always so cold

86 Questions for HIM Abby Fuller

We’ve all heard the expression, once a cheater always a cheater Little boy is abused as a child, grows up to be a wife beater We learn from the examples of others Forgetting that we’re all sisters and brothers Sometimes I think I’ll never know the answers What happened to the inherent good in people? We try to find our answers in a building with a steeple They say HE made us this way Good and bad in different shades of gray Sometimes I think I’ll never know the answers What we see on the outside is almost always fake People are out for themselves, what is not given they take I’ve been promised things a time or two Only to have them take it back and say that they’re through Sometimes I think I’ll never know the answers A baby is killed because of someone’s mistake Teenagers with guns choose their peers’ fate Men, women, and children killed because of their race Everyone oblivious to the consequences they face Sometimes I think I’ll never know the answers HE gave us a guide for us to follow People kill themselves because they feel hollow Men plot to take a plane from the sky Crash into a building so people will die Sometimes I think I’ll never know the answers Fathers have mistresses, mothers have lovers They lie and try to keep it undercover People pop pills to take away their pain Drug companies stop at nothing to gain Sometimes I think I’ll never know the answers You can get porn anytime you please Girls wear short skirts, boys call them a tease Sex sells more than anything they say Give yourself up, get a shot at fame

87 Sometimes I think I’ll never know the answers Parents have a meth lab in their living room Their child ends up encased in a tomb Governors with scandals make hasty retreats Our country’s war veterans all live on the streets Sometimes I think I’ll never know the answers But they say love will find a way Make all the stuff in this crazy world go away

88 Love Abby Fuller He shows me love with his fists The first blow YOU’LL ALWAYS BE MY LITTLE GIRL The second blow I’LL ALWAYS LOVE YOU The third blow I’LL NEVER LET YOU DOWN Then blessed unconsciousness When I wake Daddy is sitting in his worn out recliner Head in his hands He is making a choking noise I swallow back my own blood Try to make use of my swollen tongue, cracked lips Daddy, are you ok? BABY, YOU KNOW DADDY LOVES YOU SO MUCH Daddy is crying Tears rolling like a river I go to him, curl in his lap I’ll make him feel better It’s ok, Daddy. See, I’m fine Daddy cries harder I know it’s not your fault. I know you love me My daddy just shows his love different than other daddies.

89 Finding You Shannon Marrie

While I waited for you centuries seemed to pass Life was an iridescent shade of blue Giving hapless hopes and dreams to the mass Perception of beauty seemed to ring true! My heart so distorted, frozen from exposure Even Cupid’s arrow could not pierce. Playfulness echoed a uniform disclosure, Then animosities could no longer stay fierce. A yearning began to linger within my soul Your green eyes enticed desires within, Words silk and smooth began to roll And your touch sent tingles into a spin. Now a beautiful bouquet of passion has bloomed, And your love has me completely consumed.

Photo submitted by Julie Fulbright 90 Untitled Jason Davis

He was born naked. They wrapped him in swaddling clothes. His cries were feral.

Photo submitted by Amanda Tucker 91 Kitsune Jason Davis

Beneath a spotted sky, the pregnant moon Unveils a curtained fox-trail through the fen. A ribbon-trace of silver river wends its crystal melody through blackened dunes. A vulpine shadow through the woods unhewn, Her path is thatched with brambled cocklebur. Her nine-trained gown a drape of frosted fur, Her footfalls gather dew, her breath keeps tune. With havocked cries, her cousins take the chase— Her trail is mist, she taunts and baits and shunts. At crimson dawn the hunter falls apace Enthralled with lust, enraptured by her scent. Exhausted, weak, and trembling from the hunt, Kitsune slips again—in Death’s embrace.

92 Waste Jason Davis

Gold spills in, roiling with dust stale cat vomit on the thin, dark carpet discarded cans, pizza boxes— I shut out the light. Empty pages, blank canvas yellowed with time litter the bed. Blank screens absorb light; glowing screens absorb thought. This nineteen-inch blue world. Time sloughs away through portals and thought-holes and memory chutes to the steady tick-tock, tick-tock, tick-tock of a heartbeat.

93 Sonnet III Jason Davis

The hours simmered past on digital alarm clocks, sordid dials of red and blue. My limbs fatigued, my weary senses dull, but latent thoughts foamed forward, mind astew. I lay awake, unsettled and alone. Cacophonous, my mind cannot find rest— So many things for which I can’t atone, Regret a netted weight inside my chest. But sensing my despair, Miroku rose, then arched his back and nocked his black-furred tail. Persistently, he clawed and poked his nose Until I let him gain the quilted vale. He rumbles in my arms, entwined within— This one small love enough to sate my sin.

94 Judgment Jason Davis

He will not see my face, his countenance is etched in blame. They pare their dual wicks, two rusted husks of apathy. Her burning eyes bore into me, a look of doubt and shame. My father’s weather-hardened gaze, his morals staunch, unmaimed— I can’t recall if this is why I fled to Tennessee. He will not see my face, his countenance is etched in blame. We sat together, scrutinized, our blackened souls the same, This whore of Babylon, they said, this sinful spirit free— Her burning eyes bore into me, a look of doubt and shame. Electric hands ran down my thighs—I would not say his name. A frantic scramble in the dark, our hollow ecstasy. He will not see my face, his countenance is etched in blame. Her breathy touch was velvet-soft, enraptured moans inflamed. An Atlas-yoke of bound regrets presides through evening tea— Her burning eyes bore into me, a look of doubt and shame. And there before the golden throne and blessed notre dame, The holy Child recounts my sin, my crimson agony. He will not see my face, his countenance is etched in blame. Her burning eyes bore into me, a look of doubt and shame.

95 Meat Market Jason Davis

Industrialization killed the glory of the one; A belching, smoking factory produces wholesale meat. Fillet mignon production not by flavor but by ton, Industrialization killed the glory of the one. Assembly-line production of an automatic gun— A hundred thousand soldiers die without a clear defeat. Industrialization killed the glory of the one; A belching, smoking factory produces wholesale meat.

Photo submitted by Tabitha Stone 96 Untitled Jason Davis

Amphetamines, barbiturates, caustic drudgery, ecstasy— Feel gilded, hallowed, ignorant. Jaded kindred lovers metamorph nightly On Prozac, quinine— Ricocheting souls that undulate vehemence. Withstanding xenophobia, Your zephyr—

Photo submitted by Meagan Frey 97 Of Man and Men Mitchell Poore

For one to believe he will always exist Is four courses in a meal of conceit. But for me to believe that the world is a mist, Is wrong and I’m incomplete? To constantly fear and repress inner thought, Is in no way an extent his of love. But for me to express my true love newly wrought, Is a sin in the eyes from above? For man to build structures that constantly praise, Is to kill earth and heaven sent stone. But for I who loves nature and enjoys all my days, Will burn in the brimstone alone? To seek favor and glory is not in the heart, To love and be happy is the true maker’s art.

98 As Red as Rain Dustin Housley

As red as rain When rain is red When filled with bloody tears Wash away All things today All pain, all hopes, all fears We, disconnected from the rest Vice-Versa, one and all Babel is brought down again Rain continue, fall Reality, the Tapestry Can only fray so thin Before it snaps and all is trapped in the abyss that lies within Bloody rain fall and wash all in kind of sin Now start, now go, we begin to sew And we all begin again.

99 Suffer in Ruin. A Guiding Light? Dustin Housley

Meeting you has meant the world I once knew is crumbling down. Around me ever faster whirled, A lady twirling in a gown. .. .. But the ruins all around me Are reconstructed with your face. Everything I now can see Is filtered through your grace. .. .. But something stands before us now Trying to tear apart my home. And all myself, from toe to brow Screams, “I don’t want to be alone!” .. .. Easy would this problem be But I don’t know what to do… For the thing that will not let us free You can’t help but love them, too! .. .. And see you not my dilemma? If we are forced apart… If again my city is destroyed… I won’t survive my heart. .. .. Is there a solution? Please tell me there’s a cure. Cause I don’t know what I will do If I can’t see you anymore. .. .. Though I keep my features strong And I don’t break down and cry. I swear if this continues, I swear I’m going to die. .. .. And this is my true feelings, And I hate it to be so. I truly hate for my good state To be constantly brought so low. .. .. But digress I will and fast

100 For I don’t want to dwell upon the spite. I only wish that you were here, to be my guiding light. .. .. A streetlight down the highway, The moon full late at night. Guide me to your haven, Make everything alright.

Photo submitted by Kasara Croft 101 Another Day in High School (Alphabet Poem) Taylor Dixon

Another day in high school boring and dull clock goes off early in the morning detention is calling everyone shuffles to class forgetting our homework, as usual getting scolded by Mrs. Jones how much longer until lunch? I can hardly concentrate just a few more hours left keep staring at the clock learning was never such a bore Mondays are especially long now I’m getting restless oh the places I’d rather be pitifully dragging down the hall queen bee Lisa pushes right past me reading a book in the library silence is the key the bell rings once again universal signal for “run” I guess Veronica announced homecoming queen when will the torture end? X, y, and z.. 1, 2, and 3 yes! Its almost over! Zero fun at school today

102 To High School Lynsie Holder

Dear High School, I want to thank you for everything you have done for me. From sheltering me when I needed to be, to letting me be my own person, independent if you please. You taught me lessons I will never remember. And let me meet people I will never forget. Learning the way around your halls was tough at first. Then I got to know you and said, “This is kid stuff.” Show choir trips and Dance Team events. Football games and dancing the night away. Then graduation came. What a day that was. With all of my friends, we walked across that stage. It was grand, it was great. But now that I think about it and take a step back. You, High School, were never really that bad. So I want to thank you for everything. You taught me to be who I am today. Yours Always, Lynsie

103 Warm Summer’s Day Lynsie Holder

I love a warm summer’s day. Seeing the flowers dance in the breeze. It’s almost enough to bring me to my knees. I love a warm summer’s day. Watching the little kids play in the grass. It brings back wonderful memories of my past. I love a warm summer’s day. Splashing in the pool with friends until night. That is always to me a joyous sight. I love a warm summer’s day. But it’s winter, still too cold to do all of those things. I guess I’m going to have to wait until that warm day is here. And then I finally get to see what that summer’s day brings.

Photo submitted by Jana Pankey 104 Fall Jileen Farley

Little girl laughing Yellow, Red, Orange, Purple, Brown All the leaves falling.

Photo submitted by Jileen Farley 105 In This Place Donna Harkins

Here I am , in this place Of my inner tormenting Day by day goes by I wish to fade away I’m where I shouldn’t be So, I attempt to live, in this place So-called victories plaguing me Wearing the expected mask I wish to fade away I’m where I shouldn’t be So, I struggle, in this place Drowning in all the right and wrong Decisions push me down I wish to fade away I’m where I shouldn’t be So, I drift about, in this place My failures closing in Obvious flaws in my face I wish to fade away I’m where I shouldn’t be Here I am, in this place Exactly where I’m supposed to be The wrong person, in the right place I wish to fade away I’m who I shouldn’t be

106 Mortal Dungeon Donna Harkins

Swirling Black Hole Vacuum of my soul Cold empty shell My prison cell Can’t move because of chains Embedded in abandoned veins Long forgotten is my sight Hear an echo in void of night Hand gently knocks On my frozen blood box Pleading grievous voice Not to listen was my choice Swirling Black Hole Human mind destroyed my soul Cold empty shell All that’s left from when I fell

Photo submitted by Jana Pankey 107 Sweet Innocence Donna Harkins

Sweet Innocence You waved goodbye so long ago Slipped out silently on your way I wish you would have warned me more Before you became a memory of yesterday Sweet Innocence You left me with my thoughts Unclean things now wandering through my mind I wished you would have warned me more Before you became so extremely hard to find Sweet Innocence You traveled so far from me My only companion now an improper fantasy I wish you would have warned me more Before you became a childhood legacy

Photo submitted by Jana Pankey 108 Who Am I? Donna Harkins

I am a dreamer I am a seeker I am a wanderer I am a lover of adventure I long to ride the wind around the world I feel impotent when alone I feel the need for supporting arms I feel a fear of bypassing my purpose I am born of blended cultures I am a resident of this planet, Earth I am human I am me.

Photo submitted by Meagan Frey 109 Letter Poem Donna Harkins

Dear Muse, I just wanted to kindly let you know I am a bit upset with you. We’ve worked together off and on for several years now. We really do go way back, don’t we? Why, I was only eight when I made your acquaintance. At first you were very flexible in will- ing to work with whatever; maybe you were merely putting up with my childish curiosity? Because after that, your visits have always been fairly sporadic. Now it seems we only do things on your time, with disregard towards what I must get done. So, maybe you see why I declare I am upset? Honestly, this is a note of warning. If you want to continue working together, show up more often and be a bit more cooperative. If you don’t, surely there is another I can find more suitable than you? At wit’s end, Donna R.

Phooto submitted by Jonathan Otto 110 As the World Turns Amber Daugherty

Enlightened by a new perspective I have found warmth in the cold Though my body shakes It tells the story that needs to be told Crossing of the fingers Keep the lips moving in a whisper To the sadness that always lingers Rain falls to wash away sin To create a new beginning That will never end Change creates fear But can be brought to rest With a finer new year And as the dim lights illuminate The buildings become focused Life begins to escalate A stretch to the world.

111 Divorce Anonymous

Laughter turns to silence, Emotions run high. You feel worthless, And start to cry. The Ending begins, The Marriage Ends. You both agree, You will be friends. Time heals all wounds, Or so they say. I hope they’re right, For this I pray.

112 Letter Poem Eric Harris

Dear Creativity, Why is it that you neglect me when I request your presence? You only come out to play at night, When you know that I can’t join you. So why don’t you show your face in the light? You’re always great company, Ecstatic in your demeanor. Sometimes you manage to surprise me, When you whisper secrets in my ear. So now you’re not here. Ugh, so typical. You just love to run off, And leave me standing here… a fool. You can never help me when I need it, Or give me advice when I’m in a rut. You just kick me when I’m not looking, Only a bruise left by your foot. Luckily though, the bruise reminds me of you, And the things you have said. So at times I can put you to use, And in your absence, I am led. So now I must say, That which before, I could not. Creativity, you’re an awful friend, Though futile you are not.

113 True Colors Eric Harris

Autumn holds truer than any other season. Between Summer and Winter, it’s a sincere transition. Dancing are the leaves as they show their true colors. Giddily do they float down to meet the others. Prissy they seem, as the wind pushes them away. The leaves throw a tantrum, they just want to stay. Pain is the sensation that all the trees feel. But just a few more months, and all will be healed

Photo submitted by Jonathan Otto 114 Instruments of the Orchestra Eric Harris

Smoothly Pacing, Rhythmically Awkward. The background works against him. His voice lobs every word The music that fills his head Spills out across the terrain. The occupants soak it up, Yet none of it will they retain. For as much effort as he exerts And as red as he paints his face, Those in his vision that surround him Will soon vanish without a trace. Awkwardly Pacing, He smoothes out his rhythm.

Photo submitted by Meagan Frey 115 Girlfriend Meagan Frey

My name is Girlfriend. I tread a fine line between Good and pathetic.

Drawing by Cheyenne McDonald 116 Carnival Newsletter T. Jan Rogers ACADIAN TRAVELS – NEWS LETTER CRUISE ITENERARY – MYSTIC SEA

Boarding time May 6, 2010 11:00 A.M. Sails out of harbor May 6, 2010 4:00 P.M. Greetings from the Mystic Sea, we know you are anxious to begin your adven- ture with us on this unusual ship! For those of you who have sailed with us be- fore and to all of our brand new guests that will be with us for the first time, we say welcome! The Mystic Sea has been totally refurbished and is just dripping with Cajun elegance. This newsletter will give you some wonderful information about how this marvelous vessel came to be and the inspiring family that never gave up on their dreams. We know that the Mystic Sea will take you for the ride of your lifetime over the vast ocean floor. The ship was first built in 1996 by two students that were attending the Distinc- tive Ship Building School. Jacques and Pierre LeSnotz first dreamed of building a ship when they were small boys! They both worked hard to make their dream come true. They have now been working in the shipbuilding trade for the last fourteen years. Their motto is – work until you can get it as close to right as you can. They now have their own cruise ship company at the prestigious shipyard, Louisiana Dry Dock. The worthy school they attended was located at the same shipyard. To their dismay, there was a gas leak, and the school exploded into oblivion. This sad catastrophe happened only days after the boys had received their certificates, proving them to be legitimate graduates of the Distinctive Ship Builders Anonymous Class of 1996. But never fear! School was not in ses- sion on that unfortunate day. They want each of you to know that they feel sure all the glue and nails stuck just right! Their proof is in the Mystic Sea herself because after fourteen years, she’s still floating. Although, there was that very miniscule problem on the last voyage, but we don’t have to get into that right now. All you need to know is that the problem was fixed. Jacques and Pierre were flown by helicopter out to the cruise ship’s location and were able to find just the right size plug to correct the problem. You’re safe on board a ship built by these two upwardly mobile great men. They have brought many of their family members into the cruise ship business. Why only last year, they recruited Little LeSnotz, their beloved 80 year old mamere (grandmother), to teach the great chefs on your very ship the smooth and silky buttery cream desert called Pistachio Fling. The great chefs found Little LeSnotz’s Spicy Gumbo Soup recipe that’s made from edible leftovers, an interesting hodge-podge of secret ingredients too secretive to describe. In her cooking classes, she often tells her students that good Cajun cookin’ is like good lovin’, slow and spicy, and that Cajun spiced odds and ends are the tidbits of culinary bliss. So just to make your mouth water, here’s a few more of the 117 delectable Cajun Creole culinary treats you’re in over your head for – Gator Tail Etoufee, Crawfish Pie, Turtle Bisque, Blackened Speckled Trout with Black- eyed Peas, and Real Dirty Rice is a staple with every dish. Pickled Pig Lips and Pork Cracklings are great Cajun snacks, and for desert, Lost Bread with Bananas. Also on board will be the old sea dog, Big LeSnotz, pepere (grandfa- ther) to all the clan; he is going to be there to welcome you in French Cajun style upon boarding. But a warning to all the pretty lassies, old sea dog was a bit of a freebooter in his younger days! Well, now you know how we feel about the inspiring LeSnotz family. We just wanted you to be as proud as we are that you will have the opportunity to walk on the Mystic Sea’s gain plank. A gain plank dedicated to the LeSnotz family historic trail. Last but not least, for an extra fee of $10.50, you can have your picture taken with the LeSnotz Family Cardboard Cutouts. Most folks find it an unusual and one of a kind souvenir to take home. Note of interest – Take the famous LeSnotz’s Louisiana Swamp Tour before or after your cruise. See our neighbor, the gator, in its natural moss draped Cypress habitat. During this two hour tour, your swamp guide will attempt to feed a few gators, so that everyone on board will be able to get a great close-up look at this magnificent reptile. If it’s Crawfish season, we’ll check our traps for these fresh- water crustaceans that look like small lobsters. Other critters commonly sighted on the swamp tours are snowy Egrets, raccoons, water snakes, and Nutria Rats. Even the near extinct Louisiana Black Bear has been spotted on a lucky occa- sion. The guide will also tell you the Cajun folktale story about “Old Stubborn Fanny Mae” and how it is said that she liked to have her way until she swam with that gator on her last ill-fated day. At the end of the tour, for an extra fee of $10.50, you can have your picture taken while you’re holding a small gator. Only gator grins allowed! Acadian Travels along with the Mystic Sea’s team would like to express – Lais- sez les bon temps flotteur! Which stands for, Let the good times float! Your ship’s itinerary is attached, along with a short message from the FCSS (Federal Cruise Ship Security). Also attached is some comments from previ- ous guests that have vacationed on the Mystic Sea. Remember, if you have any other concerns or questions please call us at 1-800-011-9011. Anchors Away, Zachary Taylor Acadian Travels – President Mystic Sea – President Mystic Sea Cozumel, Mexico Western Caribbean Homeport of New Orleans

118 Thursday – May 6th Board 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

1:30 – First on board buffet (All you can eat Smorgasbord of Cajun Delight) 2:00 – Tour our ship (See the first nail head Jacques & Pierre drove home) 3:00 – Life preserver drill (Life vest are color coded for sizes) 4:00 – Sailing away from the harbor (Adventure of a lifetime begins) 6:00 – Main dining (Predator Night – Shark speared just for you) 8:00 – Show time (Cajun Re’jouissance – brilliant young Cajun Band) 9:30 – Activities (The all you can eat Dirty Rice Mouthful Competition) 12:00 – Late Night Buffet (Eat at the Smorgasbord of Cajun Delight again) Friday – May 7th 7:00 – Breakfast (Smoked Sausage with Coush – Coush) 9:30 – Sing along (Cajun Anthem – “Jolie Blon” on main deck) 10:30 – Activities (Play the game; Hunt the Peeshwank, for a chance to win big) 12:00 – Mystic Lunch (Yummy! Yummy! You can’t get enough of that smoked sausage!) 1:30 – Tummy Help (If you’re seasick – Visit the Traiteur Shop for a fragrant herbal remedy) 3:30 – Free Time (Just an Idea – Little Le Snotz’s Cooking Class – My-nez & File’ Gumbo) 6:00 – Main dining (Cajun-Toga or Semi-formal – We’re cooking the whole pig) 8:00 – Show time (Amazu, the famous magician, will ask some lucky sailor to assist him) 9:30 – Activities (Get the gambling Fever at Casino Night, 1st 3 drinks free!) 9:30 – Activities (Mystery Theater – Participate in this spooky clues game of murder and mayhem) 12:00 – Late Night Buffet (Eat up the outcomes of Little LeSnotz’s Cooking Class) Saturday – May 8th

6:00 – Docking at port of call – Cozumel Mexico (Get your land legs to moving) 7:00 – Activities (Early bird snorkeling class – breakfast on the go is provided) 7:00 – Breakfast (Smoked sausage with grits) 9:30 – Sing along (Cajun Anthem – “Jolie Blon” on main deck) 10:30 – Activities (Straw Market by van – get instructions on how to bargain with vendors) 12:00 – Mystic Lunch (Dogs on the deck) 1:30 – Activities (Rent a Volkswagen to Beach – get sand in your undies) 4:30 – Activities (Fais do do – Louisiana Dance party with Cajun and Zydeco music on deck) 119 6:00 – Main Dining (Captains night – a musical and culinary tribute to Jacques & Pierre) 8:00 – Show Time (The Cajun sorceress herself – Ms. Honeyvile temptress of the night) 9:30 – Activities (Beach campfire – scary & funny Cajun stories and marshmal- low smores) 12:00 – Late Night Buffet (Slurp up the sweets brought on board from down in the Bayou) Sunday – May 9th 6:00 – Leaving port (High seas ahead!) 7:00 – Breakfast (Try Little Le Snotz’s omelets – everything in em but the kitchen zink) 9:30 – Sing along (Cajun Anthem – “Jolie Blon” on main deck) 10:30 – Activities (Visit the day spa – Specialties are the Crazy Hands Massage & Mud Wrap) 12:00 – Mystic Lunch (Bite into out famous Catfish Po’ Boy) 1:30 – Activities (See the movie, Swamp Country & the Terrors Beneath) 3:00 – Activities (The Louisiana Low Land Waters Club perform defensive synchronized swimming) 4:00 – Activities (Power-saw ice carvings of backwater creatures – keep your distance please!) 6:00 – Main Dining (Jazzy Night – Turduckens with sweet potatoes are always the favorite) 8:00 – Showtime (Live Jazz and Tap dance performed by the New Orleans Musical Steppers) 9:00 – Mardi Gras Celebration (A five feet tall Mardi Gras King Cake that glows in the dark) Monday – May 10th 6:00 – Docking at homeport of New Orleans 7:00 – Breakfast (One last Time! Smoke that sausage!) 9:00 – Clear Cabin (Please leave stateroom and go to the specified disembarking area) 9:30 – Disembark (wait for your number – please be patient) A message from the FCSS Be on the lookout for some shady characters. We feel we are close to nabbing them. We call the male suspect bulging eyes, and he has a female partner that we just call – the female partner. They seem to enjoy cruising, and the male suspect cannot resist the top deck where the lovely ladies like to relax in the sun. Please do not try to apprehend these individuals! Be aware that they are great con artists. If you have any suspicion that they might be on your cruise, contact the ship’s security immediately. We do not believe that you will be in any danger

120 during your trip. They have used aliases before such as: Jack and Jill Pailwater Derived from the female suspect’s favorite nursery rhyme Elton and Judy Diamonds Derived from the male suspect’s fetish for the fancy eye glasses that Elton John wears while performing The FCSS will provide you with the needed security information upon boarding. The following are randomly picked comments from guest: Sailed on the Mystic Sea – June 5, 2005 I found this experience to be overwhelming and most unusual but in a good way. This was my first cruise, so I really didn’t know what to expect. The LeSnotz family made me feel right at home. My souvenir picture sets on my nightstand. I think I’m part Cajun now. Sailed on the Mystic Sea – August 1, 2006 My family, which includes my wife and five kids, wanted a brand new cruising experience. Boy oh boy, did we find that experience on the Mystic Sea. I can’t say enough about the Mardi Gras Celebration. That King cake was just, WOW! My wife got the piece with the little plastic baby, and my kids’ mouths glowed in the dark all night long. They thought that was really cool! Sailed on the Mystic Sea – October 20, 2007 I’m sure this is a fine ship. I only got to spend half of a day on board. Bad weather sent us back to port. I was really bummed out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sailed on the Mystic Sea – March 10, 2008 Before coming on board the Mystic Sea, I was considering becoming a vegetarian. I had just become disillusioned with meat. See, I own a butcher job in Queens, New York. But what can I say? That succulent pig just called my name. I know to some, seeing a full pig cooked with an apple in its mouth is repulsive. But to me, that was the most beautiful piece of cooked pork meat I had ever seen. Pork, in its true form like it’s meant to be. Now, I am once again excited by meat. I owe the enjoyment of my livelihood to everyone at Acadian Travels and the Mystic Sea who encouraged me to take this cruise. I can’t thank them enough. Sailed on the Mystic Sea – April 15, 2009 I took Little LeSnotz’s cooking class while on the ship. The My-nez & File’ Gumbo was out of this world. Little LeSnotz’s insisted that we call her mamere. She was just this spunky little woman full of fire and gusto. The funny thing was I only understood about every three words she spoke. It didn’t matter though, the food turned out great! In fact, everyone’s same dish tasted a little different. Mamere would often come by and throw spices into your pot. I asked her what they were and she just said, “Oh, liddle diz and liddle dat.”

121 Sailed on the Mystic Sea – June 21, 2009 Whew! Spicy! I was itching all over! That Traiteur Shop saved my life! The Cajun sorceress really freaked me out! Children under a certain age should not be allowed to see her show. I still can’t get the picture out of my head of her and that Cobra! Snake lovers freak me out! Sailed on the Mystic Sea – September 28, 2009 The game, Hunt the Peeshwank, was hysterical. My two boys were running me to death looking for Peeshwanks. (On the Mystic Sea, Peeshwanks are wooden figures of little old elves) It is said if you catch them before they turn into wood; they have to grant you a wish. Well, we didn’t get any wish granted but we have never laughed so hysterically. But enough with the smoked sausage already! Oh yeah, beach campfire is great for families. The scary stories are not that scary and the marshmallow smores were great! Take wipes, you’ll get sticky. For more comments, visit us at www.acadian/mysticseas/cruise/laisezlesbon=temps=flotteur

Photo submitted by Barbara Schooley 122 The Gridiron Jackie Black

Being on the gridiron, in the middle of the crowd with thousands of people watching you, your heart starts flying and you have one play left, you’re thinking everything that you did in the past doesn’t matter. One play left to leave a legacy. The gridiron is a test To see your change stand up to the challenges to see if you have what it takes to be the king on the gridiron.

Photo submitted by Debra Black 123 Those Eyes, Your Eyes Anonymous

Those eyes, your eyes green and intriguing. Those eyes, your eyes fearful of seeing. Those eyes, your eyes keep my heart beating.

Those eyes, your eyes could stop all time. Those eyes, your eyes say please stay mine.

124 Editor: Julie Fulbright

Front cover photography by: Jonathan Otto

Graphic Design and Production: Tony Bartolo and Donna Benton

Printer: Dockins Graphics, Cleveland, Tenn.

Copyright: 2010

Cleveland State Community College

clevelandstatecc.edu

All Rights Reserved

Cleveland State Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Ga. 30033-4097, telephone number (404) 679-4501. Cleveland State Community College is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Employment Opportunity (AA/EEO) institution committed to the education of a non-racially identifiable staff and student body. The college does not permit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religious views, veteran status, political affiliation, gender, age, national origin, orientation or disability against employees, students and guests in any college sponsored or hosted educational program or activity including, but not limited to, the following: recruitment; admissions; academic and other educational program activities; housing; facilities; access to course offerings; counseling; financial assistance; employment assistance; health and insurance benefits and services; rules for marital and parental status; student services; and athletics.

CSCC HS/10098/04/09/2010