Inspire - 4th Edition

Inspire Staff 2022-2023

- Editor-in-ChiefMs. Katherine Braun

- Editorial Committee -

*Dani E - 8th grade

*Molly M - 8th grade

*Theo P - 7th grade

Riley C - 8th grade

Violet B - 7th grade

Jennifer D - 7th grade

Grace H - 7th grade

Calla H - 7th grade

Kaiden J - 7th grade

Summer K - 7th grade

Zachary S - 7th grade

Henry S - 7th grade

- Inspire Workshop Committee -

*Angie E - 8th grade

*Zohaib K - 8th grade

Eva C - 8th grade

Lucas C - 8th grade

Rose H - 7th grade

Liam M - 6th grade

- Technology & Entrepreneurship Committee -

*Nisa G - 8th grade

Lizanette B - 8th grade

Grace C - 8th grade

Saori Q - 8th grade

Andres T - 8th grade

Zak H - 7th grade

*Starred names denote current leaders in each committee.

Thank you to the Lisle Education Foundation for sponsoring Inspire. Without your support, many creative voices would go unheard.

bit.ly/inspireljhs

Our mission is to inspire young adults to feel confident as they branch out their work and explore new styles of literature and art.

Goodbye Mom

Goodbye Mom

By: Wilson Wunder

By: Wilson Wunder

Dear Mom,

Goodbye Mom - Wilson W

Dear Mom,

For a while I thought you were fine

For a while I thought you were fine

But I knew you were on medication to help yourself

But I knew you were on medication to help yourself

But I knew that your health wasn’t the greatest

But I knew that your health wasn’t the greatest

I wish I could have seen you before I left

I wish I could have seen you before I left

I wish that I could have talked to you again before you passed on

I wish that I could have talked to you again before you passed on Reliving all of your joy through photos and activities we've Been through

Reliving all of your joy through photos and activities we've Been through

But I know you’d want me to move on and continue with my life

But I know you’d want me to move on and continue with my life

But when I saw you in that coffin it felt like my heart skipped a beat

But when I saw you in that coffin it felt like my heart skipped a beat And I felt like my life and time just stopped right there

And I felt like my life and time just stopped right there

But I just wish I could hug you one more time

But I just wish I could hug you one more time

But now I know that it’s time to accept your death

But now I know that it’s time to accept your death

And let you move onto the afterlife

And let you move onto the afterlife

And let you flyintheairlikeadove

And let you flyintheairlikeadove

And be withGodandyourpassedlovedones

And be withGodandyourpassedlovedones

Welcoming you to heaven

Welcoming you to heaven

But I just wish that God

But I just wish that God

Didn’t have to take you away from me and my siblings so early

Didn’t have to take you away from me and my siblings so early

And I just wish that you were still alive

And I just wish that you were still alive

And I just wish there was something

And I just wish there was something

To bring you back to me

To bring you back to me

And let you live out the rest of your days

And let you live out the rest of your days

And let you see your friends one more time

And let you see your friends one more time

I love you, Mom

I love you, Mom

And our whole family loves you

And our whole family loves you

Even the family on Dad’s side

Even the family on Dad’s side

And I know you love us too

And I know you love us too

You can probably see Uncle up there

You can probably see Uncle up there

Watching down on us

Watching down on us

Watching us go on with our lives

Watching us go on with our lives

From Kuya Wilson

From Kuya Wilson

In loving memory of Joycelin & Michael Paul

In loving memory of Joycelin & Michael Paul

Beloved parents of Wilson and Jackson

Beloved parents of Wilson and Jackson

May you both “flyintheairlikeadove…withyourpassedlovedones”

May you both “flyintheairlikeadove…withyourpassedlovedones”

“...reliving all of your joy...”

“...my heart skipped a beat...”

“...a spark of inspiration...”

Waves - Riley C

Page 19

OfCagesandKeys - Ms. Katherine Braun ......................................................................................................... Page 20

TheImportantThings - Sophie C

Page 21

Dream - Simon K ........................................................................................................................................................ Page 21

ContemporaryPerturbation - Theo P Page 21

Thalassa - Anonymous Page 22

The Water Boiler - Theo P ....................................................................................................................................... Page 22

The Burden - Henry S

Wishes - Bernardette W

Artwork

Page 22

Page 23

InspireSpace - Anonymous Page 19

Restorative - Mrs. Monica Blatchley

Kiara - Grace M. C ......................................................................................................................................................

InfiniteInspiration - Jennifer D

Sunrise Yak - Mrs. Monica Blatchley

Page 20

Page 20

Page 20

Page 21

Sunsets #1 - Molly M ................................................................................................................................................. Page 21

Sunsets #2 - Molly M

Winter - Violet B .........................................................................................................................................................

Sarah Cameron from Outer Banks - Grace M. C

InnerSpace - Connor R

Performance

Page 21

Page 23

Page 23

Page 23

Maher’s Clockwork - Simon K and Ibrahim S .................................................................................................. Page 23

- Ms. Katherine Braun

“...I just wish...”

“...one more time...”

“...continue with my life...”

“...reliving all of your joy...”

A drop of rain slowly traveled down the window. All the raindrops raced as if the world was ending. The car engine started, I buckled myself up, and we drove off. The quiet choppy radio went on and off. I looked off into the dark, foggy, gray distance and noticed we were slowly approaching the Humane Society. Once we came to a stop I jumped out of the car. Drops of rain fell quickly from the sky. Cold shivers ran down my arms.

I skipped inside and waited for the rest of my family. I was drenched in cold rain water, but I didn’t mind at all. I still had a huge smile planted on my face. My heart beat pounded faster as I quickly walked to the room dedicated to cats, I opened the door and walked to the kittens. Gentle weak meows coming from all over the room. You could smell the scents of chicken broth and catnip throughout the room. I peeked in the room and glanced at two black and white kittens huddled up in a tight cage. I started to look around, and realized there were some papers connected to the cage by a thin thread. I flipped through the pages and the first page said in bold, “Up For Adoption.” Then the rest of the papers had their information. I ran to my sister in joy. Once I told her about the kittens we ran back. I pointed to them.

“Look!” I said in a shocked voice. By the look of excitement on her face, I knew she wanted them, too.

We both quickly sprinted to the front desk where my mom was with a staff member. They were in the middle of a conversation so I sat on the bench in front of the front desk, while I stared out of the window into the foggy gray sky.

After about two minutes that felt more like a hundred years, the staff member led my family to a small, enclosed room. Before closing the door she said, “I’ll be right back.”

As the door slid across the marble tile, a chilly gust of breeze traveled across the room and gave me shivers. Eliana and I should have told mom about the kitten we wanted. I said in my head. About another 2 minutes passed and the staff member was back but this time I noticed the silhouette of two tiny dark figures in her arms. As she gently placed the creatures on the floor, I recognized the kittens. And then I suddenly remembered.

My mom approached the kittens and softly picked one of them up. She gently stroked the kitten’s neck, and the cat started to purr. My mom delicately passed her to me. The petite feline meowed shyly a couple times while I cradled her in my arms.

I asked my younger sister, “Want to play with her?”

My sister nodded and so I set the kitten down. The kitten waddled straight to my sister and hid behind her leg. Peeking out, the tiny cat looked into Eliana’s eyes and let out a soft, weak meow. After a few minutes we had decided.

“We’ll adopt her!” said my mom.

I was shocked! As I looked over at my sister, our eyes met and she squealed and jumped in joy. “But just one? We can’t separate them!” The words I said could barely express the rush of emotions I felt. It was like I was happy and disappointed at the same time.

“You’re right...I don’t want to separate them. I want them to be happy but do you promise to take care of both of them together?” I nodded without even thinking. All I knew was that I needed them.

Thank You, - Grace H

for always being right by my side. When my days are at their worst, when you are there they get better. Even on days that I am carrying the world on my shoulders, weighing me down. Down. Down. Down.

I know to keep going because you will always be there to support me. I don’t know what I would do without you.

Like that one time, when rivers were pouring out of my eyes. As I flopped onto my bed, knowing the world was over. Until I heard that gentle tap at my door, the world lit up again. Thank you.

And like that other time, when I tripped and fell down. I thought that I couldn’t get back up. But you were there to help me get back on my feet again. Thank you.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, for always being right by my side.

Hablando un Nuevo Lenguaje

Cuando estaba en México yo ...no savia

Como Hablar

Ingles

Cuando me moví a América

Yo conoci a mi verdadera mama Conocí a mi hermano Y mi hermana

Nuestros primeros abrazos fueron emocional Yo vi a mi mamá llorando de felicidad

Yo me desvele con mi nueva

Familia y ala mañana siguiente yo me levante

En la mesa y luego me tio vino con mi primo Y luego jugamos con él por veinte minutos

Aunque no savia como hablar ingles

Mi familia no le importo yo estaba feliz

Que luego de mucho tiempo yo estaba feliz

De finalmente

Ver A

Mi MAMA

Y yo sabía que iba a estar bien

Speaking a New Language

When I was in Mexico I didn’t know How To Speak English. When I moved to America I met my actual MOM I met my brother and sister.

Our first hugs were emotional I saw my mom crying of happiness stayed up all night with my new family then fell asleep on the table.

Snore

Then my Uncle came and I met my cousin Then we played with him for like 20 minutes.

Even though I didn’t know how to speak English... My family didn’t mind I was happy to finally Meet My MOM and I knew I will be okay

- Anonymous -

InspiredMs. Katherine Braun

A Winter Wonderland - Angel W

The car was humming, the streets were asleep, and I could barely hear a sound. It was as quiet as a house on Christmas Eve night. My family and I were getting closer to our new house in Lisle. Suddenly little white balls came down from the sky, and it looked like some giant was letting its dandruff rain down. My mom pulled over the car, got out, and opened my brothers’ and my door.

When we stepped outside the car, it was so cold it was like I was in Antarctica. “Wow, this is really cold.” I said as my teeth were chattering. Next, we started picking up the white, cold, and wet snow and started inspecting it with our hands. Because they were so cold, our hands were shaking like old people. After that, we got back in the car and it was perfect timing because a snowstorm almost swallowed us whole.

It felt like hours before the storm passed and we could continue on the road again. Sadly by then, the car was an ice cube. My dog Kesha had thrown up earlier and that started stinking up the car.

We didn’t have anything to communicate with our Dad. Luckily I spotted a U-Haul with my Dad in it driving to my new house. So my brothers rolled down the car window and started shouting at the truck. It had suddenly pulled to a stop, and once more we were reunited. My Dad got someone to help us bring the car to our house and we FINALLY made it.

I was shocked by the size of the house, my eyes widening and a smile growing on my face. It was like I was in a candy store or I got a really cool video game, but when we got in it became so hot I was sweating. Finally, we were all relaxed setting up stuff and unpacking our furniture. I went upstairs to look out the window and realized snowlookssomuchbetterwhenyou’renottrappedinit.It’slikeawinterwonderland fromuphere.

My Brothers came upstairs too. “Wow, our room looks so huge!” Gabriel said with excitement. “So where should this go?” Roman said, carrying a mini tv. I said, “Hmm, over there seems nice” pointing at the left wall of the room. So we agreed that my idea sucked and we placed it on our dresser. We plugged it in and we had Mom set up Christmas music.

It was amazing being with the whole family and setting up stuff while listening to the sounds of the music and the snow breezing. From then on we had amazing times in that house and some bad times like when I broke my ankle jumping off the bed onto a pile of pillows and blankets. Other than those times everything is awesome and I am still happy with where I live.

Inspire - Ms. Katherine Braun

When the words from my pencil flow–no matter how slow–and create an image that stirs the soul–

When the strokes from my brush paint a picture that penetrates the defenses of a dormant emotion that needs to wake–

When a quote from a book incites an intriguing insight that prompts the mind to perceive life in a different light–

When a flower from a bud blooms after everyone assumed it’s too late in the season; the bud’s certainly doomed–

When the words from your mouth spark a flame in my heart that brightens the spaces I never knew were so dark–

For me, that’s what ignites, inspires, delights; that’s what frees me, what lets me take flight.

Poems - Henry S

This is a poem about a poem. And that poem is about a poem

And even that poem is about a poem. Wow, that’s a lot of poems!

I dislike poems. Too much analysis.

That’s why this poem

Has absolutely no meaning whatsoever. Definitely. No meaning to see here.

I hope so, at least. Yet somehow, an English teacher Could probably Turn this into a poem

About Shakespeare. I hate Shakespeare. He sucks. Why couldn’t he just talk normally?

I don’t think anyone actually likes Shakespeare. Or poems. Or analyzing poems. Except for English teachers, of course. But I’m getting off-topic. After all, this poem is about poems. Not Shakespeare. But anyways, See ya later, alligator. Refrigerator.

Bad Poetry - Anonymous

I open the door

I see the meat of a boar

Which I really adore

The food looks yummy

In my tummy!

The meat is just sitting there

Then I see a pear

Is that a piece of hair?

I go to get silverware

The fork pricks me on the finger

Wait, is that the root of some ginger?

I start to drink a bottle of vinegar. My throat starts to close up.

I spit it into a cup.

I start to taste colors

Is that my mother?

UntitledHailey S

Or shall that be my brother?

I close the refrigerator

And that, kids, is the story of the liberator.

Dig-In - Violet A. K

While Isy is at Softball, I long for a school activity, Days, and days, and a few weeks. Then, the morning announcements say, Dig-InClubwillmeetthisWednesday, Immediately, I am filled with joy, Wednesday comes and I am super excited. But wait!

What if I do not know anybody?

What if everyone is mean to me?

Then my friend Corn tells me that she is going! Happy, we walk to the FACS room, Corn and I sit next to our classmate Alex.

The teachers who run the club come to introduce themselves, It is my literature and language arts teacher, the amazing Ms. Nelson, And the FACS teacher, Ms. Bryne. We start to garden, and I weed a lot!

I take home my choice of harvest and am profoundly happy! Next week, the day before my birthday, Is the next session of Dig-In Club.

My friends Mai and Ava are coming along, Isy’s softball practice is canceled, so she joins us. Today, we harvest the same crops and many more, I pick out a gorgeous orange flower. Then next meeting I cannot make it to, I have basketball tryouts, I make the basketball team!

Wait, now I cannot go to Dig-In, I love basketball, but I miss Dig-In. I miss another session of Dig-In because of a basketball game. The next day is the Halloween Dance, And Ms. Nelson in language arts lets me, Choose a succulent plant and an owl pot to paint. I choose a purple-ish plant, And a huge owl to paint. Ms. Nelson gives me, A paint set and brush.

And now there is a gorgeous succulent at home. Thank You, Ms. Nelson.

I Am Me - Anonymous

I am as bright as a sunflower. I am as blue as the sky.

I am as strong as a rock.

I am as bold as a rainbow. I am as quiet as a mouse. I am as sweet as sugar.

I am anything I wanna be.

I am as perfect as I make myself. I am unique.

I am my own person.

I am me

French FriesHenry S

all of your joy...”

Saylor BellGrace M. C

SunburstMs. Katherine Braun

Work Hard - Payton L

Often you don’t just get what you want; you have to work for it. I learned this lesson the hard way on a dreary day in December when I thought everything was going to be cupcakes and rainbows. That was the day I got the bad news...

It all started when I was sitting in the front seat of my mom’s warm car watching the bright red light and snowflakes dropping down from the sky. I was heading down the road to taekwondo.

My mom told me, “If you don’t get your journals done in time then you will not be getting your deputy belt.” When I heard this news I got shivers down my back because I didn’t know if I could finish them in time; if not then I was going to have to wait another 6 months to test for my black belt.

I told my mom, “I am going to get all of them done when I get home.” I didn’t think she knew that I was lying to her. I knew that I couldn’t get them done in time. I had to think of an idea quickly. I had to watch a video on how to type quickly because I didn’t want to not get them done in time.

After mom and I pulled into the place I got out. While waiting in line I thought of an idea. I’mgoingto stayuppastmybedtimeanddoallmyjournals, I thought.

That night I worked hard to finish all my journals and because of this, I was sure I was going to get my deputy belt the next day. So when I arrived the next day I was so happy to get there, but when they called my name to come out to the mat my heart dropped to the bottom of my spine. After a little while, all the taekwondo students grouped up and started to practice so we wouldn’t forget anything.

About thirty minutes went by and the test was about to start. I was having a lot of fun but at the same time scared. WhatifIdon’tgetmybelt?ThenI´llhavetowaitanother6monthsand ... All my thoughts were coming at me.

I ran into the bathroom acting like I have to go but really I have to take a mental break. I took a deep breath and told myself that I could do it and I could calm down. Three hours later I came walking out as I was so proud of myself.

My mom said, “You did it, Payton! You did it!” After the celebration, we got ice cream and it tasted so good. I knew it was worth it.

The Elegant RoseAnonymous

Dream-RoomViolet B UntitledJolie C

King’s Gambit - Mati I

Pawn. Every little obstacle that you come across becomes a BIG problem for you.

Knight.

You get overwhelmed very easily when there is a ton of work, and you always try to multitask but fail.

Bishop. Whenever there is a BIG problem you try to avoid it, and run away ` but you can never forget about it, and it... scares you.

Rooke. You are a strong person and you always like to do stuff with a friend. but whenever your “friend” isn’t there, you are frightened like a little kid on halloween.

FwitterDiego G

Queen.

You are the strongest and most scary person. When you say something, everybody listens to you. But you always like to work because it gives you a perk. But you only like to work alone.

You love to win, and because of this, it is hurting you.

King.

There are not many of you, and everything is handed out to you on a silver platter. You always need help from everybody, And you can not do anything yourself other than run away from your problems. You love to win, and when you lose you throw a fit like a baby. Then blame everybody else.

People like you are what is hurting everyone else.

Celestrix - Lincoln C, Jimmy M, and Graham P

“...my heart skipped a beat...”

Steve,

Insect

Creepy, black

Sneaking, crawling, spinning

Hunting like a cat

Spider

The wind is crisp, you hear a wisp. You don't think much of the fright, so you continue your night. You found a house, it is red, it is dead. You decide to walk up to the house with your feathered blouse. You see a figure, it's black, it is still. Before you know it, you are lying down on a hill. You wake up to find it was all a dream, then you went on with your Halloween.

Animal

Scary, soft

Meowing, purring, scratching

Dark as a tunnel

Black Cat

heart skipped a beat...”

Untitled - Athena J

Halloween Night - Mia D

UntitledRC S

UntitledVaughn E

SoldierZachary S

Dustin, and RobinGrace M. C

Chainsaw ManRyan C

Ghost Cat - Violet Berry

Goku BlackAlex M

Untitled - Mackenzie F

Haunted House - Anonymous

There was a tacit understanding that It was not to be messed with No one had to say it

Because everyone knew that Something was off with that house

Many people ventured Looking for answers

None lived to tell the tale

The locals called the house, Deimos After the God of Terror

When people got close to Deimos

They always felt like someone was watching their every move

It sent shivers down every spine

A timid boy named Orion

Went to school one day

And the name-calling started

Just like every day

They dared Orion to put a sign on Deimos

That read

“Come and get me Deimos, I am not scared of you”

This was not true

Orion was very scared of Deimos

But they thought that Orion was too timid to do so anyways

Orion was sick of their constant teasing

But there was no point in telling the teacher

He knew that there was only one way to stop it

He would have to do the dare

That night, at dusk, Orion came up to Deimos

He had never seen the eerie building

But only heard of it in the stories

Now he realized how ominous it really was

Cobwebs adorned almost every surface

The paint was chipped

It was a light sort of black that looked like it used to be a velvet black

Most of the windows were broken

And there were pinkish curtains that all looked sun bleached

There were holes in the roof and Small statues of knights that looked like they would come alive that any moment

Rotting wood framed some windows and the door

Orion froze

He was tempted to turn and run

It was not worth it

Orion wanted to run like the wind

Something held him in place

He walked slowly to the front door with the sign in hand

Itisjustahouse

Itisjustahouse

Itisjustahouse

Itisjustahouse

The second the sign touch the door

Orion was trapped

He could not move

It felt as if it had grabbed him

And were choking him

The next morning

They went to the front of Deimos

And saw the sign

Still taped to the front door

But they saw Orion Dead

They looked up and saw a ghost

White and pale

Laughing

They squinted thinking they had seen it wrong

But then it was gone

Untitled - Alessandra P

Pumpkins

Orange, spooky

Scooping, carving, lighting

Lite up like a lamp

Jack -o-Lanterns

Untitled -

Sorceress

Magic, unkind

Brewing, Cackling, Spelling

Warty like a toad Witches

I Am Frankenstein - Jorge C

I am Frankenstein

Creeping, moaning, arms out, slow It’s coming alive!

Untitled - Mia D

Is

The night sky, a dreadful black; Soon bats will rise up; The dead will come to life; The sun is no longer seen. Kids collect their candy, while parents chase after them; Parties are only getting started, Now this is Halloween.

UntitledZalaria H

Untitled - Jorge C

Untitled - Molly B

Kooper K

This

Halloween - Anonymous

Max Mayfield (Mad Max)Grace M. C

Ghost FaceAnonymous

heart skipped a beat...”

“...i just wish...”

I’m Sorry - Zoey B

Time. Time is like a pencil. No matter how much or how little you use it. No matter if you sharpen it to create the most perfect point or let it go dull. You will run out of lead eventually.

Last summer, I witnessed this firsthand when a treasured friend of mine’s pencil would be too short to fit into the sharpener without getting stuck.

Tears slivered down my cheeks from my puffy, pink eyes. Plenty splatted onto the floor, and while the choked sniffles and gasps of air were enough sound to fill the room, they were not enough to silence my family’s grief. The words, the six words my dad had said at that moment, were enough to empty any other thoughts my brain had occupied.

“Maxx has to get put down.” My eyes shifted their gaze as they landed on my dog.

“I’m sorry Maxx...I’m sorry...” was all I could whisper through my dry throat.

After the rest of my family had dispersed throughout the house, I took the opportunity to share a few words with my beloved dog. As I lay down next to him with my vision still blurry, I set my hands on his soft ear and began to stroke his fur slowly. I didn’t want to think of this as a goodbye, but more of a thankyou. Yet the more I thought of what to say, the more thoughts filled my head. All I could think of was ‘sorry’.

“I’m sorry for not wanting to play with you...I’m sorry I didn’t want to go outside and throw your toy...I’m sorry I didn’t give you the attention you needed...I’m sorry I got mad at you for making me wipe your feet after you had gotten muddy outside...

I’m sorry...

I’m sorry...

I’m sorry...”

Those were the only sentences my mouth could make, and then it was silent. I wish I could’ve stayed in that moment forever but I knew I couldn’t.

About an hour later I sat on the cold seat of my car while the houses, animals, and other greenery flew past. I glanced at my now whimpering dog lying in the back of the car. I know animals can’t talk, but through Maxx’s eyes, I could see what he thought. The words ‘I love you’ were the words that his eyes had shown at that moment.

As my dad picked Maxx up from the back and began carrying him to the vet, I let another wave of tears spill out, soaking a part of my shorts. After he was let go, I had the opportunity to come into the vet and say goodbye one last time, even though he was gone. I was torn, but eventually, I chose to stay in the car.

The drive back was the most silent ride I have ever been on, not one word was exchanged. Walking through the back door of my house was like pushing a brick wall, with my legs chained with 100-pound weights.

I think about Maxx often, along with the many more apologies I could have given him.

Time. Time is like an hourglass. No matter how long or short, the sand falls. No matter if you flip it, or if you leave it still. The last grain of sand will fall eventually.

Waves - Riley C

I love waves

I love the way they move back and forth

Up and down

I love the way they spray a mist of salty water into the air whenever they move

The power and intensity they hold

The pure, serene beauty they exude

But perhaps I just relate to waves

The way they move up and down

The way that I feel my life going up and down constantly

Never smooth

Never easy

Always a raging tempest

Always up and down

Back and forth

Like waves

just wish...”

Infinite InspirationJennifer D

Of Cages and Keys - Ms. Katherine Braun

Each day I yearned for the day that the cage confining me would o p e n so that I could fly away.

I wistfully waited while I watched others take flight, admiring their pose, their confidence, their height.

I circled my cage desperately, trying to imitate what I could see despite knowing in my soul that’s not how it feels to be free.

For, even as I raised self-imposed expectations, even as I pounded my wings more vigorously with each gyration, I couldn’t help but recognize that I was being left behind; I was being passed by.

And then came the day when in my frantic, feigned flight around my now familiar pathway, I happened to falter and fall against the cage’s door only to realize... it wasn’t locked anymore...

Yet, when it swung o p e n inviting me to fly away, I found myself securing it back in place.

It was in that moment when I tried to hide that I fully realized I am the sole keeper of my own keys.

Outside my cage lies anxiety, uncertainty, and oh so many fears, but there also lies love, creativity, and genuine originality.

So, armed with hope and faith, I nudged o p e n the door to the cage, perched on the entryway, and fully spread my wings for the first time prepared to truly take flight for the rest of my life.

Grace M. C

RestorativeMrs. Monica Blatchley

Contemporary Perturbation - Theo P

On your living room chair, Occasionally peering out From behind your mask of Fake names, And deleted social media posts Ever help?

Fearing criticism isn’t The same as a belief. We want equality, But we’ll settle for compliance Because we know That’s all we’ll ever get. Nothing’s fair. We’re so easily deceived.

The Important Things - Sophie C

I want to try new things

I want not to be scared of change

I want to have fun

I want to live life to the fullest, live like one is watching I want to watch the sunset

I want to look up at the sky and know it’s all going to be okay

I want to be able to scream as loud as I can

I want people not to be so judgemental

I want to live life with no regrets

I want to not be afraid to fail

I want the people who care to listen

I want people to like me for me

I just want people to understand the important things.

I’m waiting for a day I can get there.

I want my day to come, but why?

I’m anticipating my success and expecting growth, but where is it?

I’m going to get better, right?

I mean I haven’t done much, but I care.

I haven’t even started yet. You don’t know yet, do you?

C’mon I am good enough but what next?

Sunrise YakMrs. Monica Blatchley

I don’t know what’s next, but it will come?

Sunsets #1Molly M

Sunsets #2Molly M

Dream - Simon K

As you take a journey through life, you go deeper into the abyss of darkness. The first stage is the reef; this symbolizes when you take your first dip into life, learn to count to 10, learn your abc’s, learn to walk.

The next stage is deeper; the ocean floor takes a short dive, and the sun dims a little. This symbolizes when you first start to attend school, do homework, and learn new skills.

The floor takes a steeper dive this time; now the sun dims more. You can’t see the bright colorful reef anymore. At least you’re still accompanied by some fish. This deeper sense of the ocean symbolizes the conversion from kid to an early teen. Academic pressure, pressure to please others. Afraid of what others think of you.

Now you’re in open waters; the sunshine dims even more. Now it’s a darker blue color. This is when things get even deeper; it symbolizes that you now learn about the harmful things in the abyss of life. The loss of some friends, and even more pressure to get a job to accommodate yourself.

The Burden - Henry S

He knows something that burdens him. And the burden that burdens him, burdens him. And the burden has a burden. And he owns his burden. But the burden doesn’t own his burden. But...there is another.

Another man with another burden ` What is that burden?

Who knows?

But everyone has a burden. Not everybody needs to share their burden.

You’re now in the Twilight Zone; this symbolizes the split between stress and love and responsibility and happiness.

As you age, you dive even deeper into the ocean; this is the Midnight Zone.

Here there is no longer any sunlight; you have to generate it yourself. This shows that you are close to moving out of your family’s house and getting a job. You only have your family and some friends as your support.

Now, you’re in the Abyssal Zone; this symbolizes that you’re close to your 30s and have found a family. Yet, you have little time for your friends and family now, and mainly your family and yourself are relied on for support and the stress and the difficulty level of life increases a lot.

Now, you’re at the final stage: the Hadal Zone; this symbolizes when you see your kids grow up and start their journey, whilst yours ends. You spend the last of your days enjoying life, generating love and compassion until you finally accept the state you’re in and close your eyes, fully welcoming darkness.

Why are we here, If the end goal is Extinguishment And the journey is torture? The only way to move forward Is to make a god-forsaken Thing called Money. I mean, what ifDarn.

The hot Wat er’s out. Again.

The Water Boiler - Theo P

Wishes - Bernardette W

As my past self received a sight into the future what she perceived is torture, Loss, Pain, Struggle, Hope. And yet, the future was still welcomed.

As I long for a flashback into the past, what I see is comfort, Gain, Ease, Success, Hope. And yet, the past is undesired to a past self.

As I sit down on the ground in the cold winter night, alone with a splinter in my heart, shivering, looking at my tears, and wishing to go back to those years to restart...

My past self sleeps safe and sound, dreaming to be in my place now.

I wanted to have it; I knew I would. Now I wish I hoped for nothing, but for a second chance of childhood.

My past self wants to have it; she knows she will. All she wishes for, is just a chance of adulthood.

WinterViolet B

Maher’s Clockwork - Simon K and Ibrahim S

Sarah Cameron from Outer BanksGrace M. C

Inner SpaceConnor R

“...one more time...”

The Final Moments - Anonymous

The air was sprouting with anticipation as the warm and sunny afternoon drifted away. I shot back and forth between the past and present. All my memories from the summer came flooding back like a tidal wave. Emotions surrounded me, anticipation, nerves, nostalgia, and excitement. I stood drinking it all in, a lone statue amidst the bustle of activity. I saw everyone’s faces adorned with huge smiles as they rushed around, preparing for the opening number which crept closer, and closer.

What I’ve spent my entire summer on, will be over, I thought. How can I move on?

“Hi!” I was shot back to my senses and saw Meg and Maddie, some of my best friends thanks to this production. This musical had connected me to wonderful and talented people, who now felt like family, but I knew that the next hour would be the last I would see them for another year. The clock was ticking.

With my friends beside me, we walked down the long hallway that I’d walked through numerous times in the past seven weeks, although it had felt like forever. I remembered all the funny memories we shared here, from sprinting through playing murder mystery almost every day, to when we finally got to see our costumes. I stopped at the door to the prop shop and tentatively peeked inside. The pleasant scent of wood drifted to my nose, as I saw the disorganized chaos that had been the result of years of plays and musicals, of creativity and talent. From us being sure a ghost was haunting the space, to having explored the depths of its treasures, this was a place I would miss. We finally stopped at the stage, with its heavy blue curtains closed, which yearned to open. I felt a stab in my heart and a prickle of tears in my eyes. From learning the entire musical on this stage to playing games and goofing off every day, I knew this was the place I would miss the most.

“Circle up!” My heart stopped. It couldn’t be that time already! Circling up in the hallway meant that it was almost time for the show to start, and closer to our summer ending. I couldn’t help but think that this was a “final goodbye” moment where we would be together for one last time. I had always imagined this moment but I had pushed it back into the future, thinking that it was so far away. I walked as slowly as I could and tried to push back the tears and resentment.

As soon as we got into our circle, Catherine, our main director, told us, “I am so proud of everyone. You have all worked so hard, and this was an amazing experience.” She had a hint of sadness glinting in her eyes, and our smiles were struggling to stay afloat. But, we all knew it was time for the things we were dreading yet excited for, our pre-show traditions.

Although they might sound silly or even ridiculous to some, they held a special place in everyone’s heart. We began with something we called “energy”. We started low to the ground and chanted energy as quietly as we could. We built on that and stood higher and higher, yelling louder and louder. But my mind was clouded knowing that this was the last time.

Next, we did the Wildcats chant from “High School Musical”. Meg shouted, and the rest of the cast responded. I tried to have enthusiasm, but I couldn’t muster it amongst the storm that was shielding my view.

Then came the last and most emotional tradition. We all put our arms around each other and sang “Lean on Me”. As the somber singing reached my ears, I knew that even though we didn’t sound like a choir, this tugged at everyone’s heart. Not only did my eyes prickle, but everyone’s did; the long and anticipated tears rolled down our faces. The raindrops started as a light drizzle, but grew as the storm of sadness welled greater in our hearts.

Sometimes, sadness is like a heavy weight. Even the lightest feathers can transform and soon they endlessly pile, making it impossible to get up. Impossible to move, to breathe. Everyone was under the pressure, but we knew we had to pull ourselves up because the rain would eventually dry up, the clouds would gradually roll away, and the sun would poke its head through.

Even though that was our final moment together before the show, I should enjoy this as much as I can because after all, theater is what I love, I thought. And I knew that all our hard work was not for nothing.

As we all walked away, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing how much fun I was about to have, as we all turned to each other and excitedly said, “Break a leg!”

Maxx, - Zoey B

Maxx,

Your loud whines and barks, The dirty door filled with claw marks. Your big smile and how your tail would wag, The muddy paws I had to clean with a rag. I thought your stay would be long, But oh boy was I wrong...

Your beautiful golden fur, I guess you just became a blur.

I always got annoyed by the trips I took outside to play with you, But if only I knew...

I only ever pushed you away Never listened to what you wanted to say I wished I had listened, cared, and loved you more I only ever ignored you and shut you away behind my bedroom door.

I neglected you all day, Can I apologize now if I may? I just want to forget, All the built up regret.

Now you can relax, As long as you know,

I love you Maxx.

Growing Up - Riley C

I don’t know if it happened in the blink of an eye

Or the flicker of a light

But I missed it

The cheeky smile that used to be plastered on my face

The Harry Potter t-shirts

The monkey bar calluses

When was the last time I asked my dad to do my hair in a bun? When was the last time I tried to hide away from the inevitable bedtime? Or was carried into bed from the car?

It’s all gone

Slipped through my fingers without even noticing

And as each day goes on, I slowly creep into the end of my childhood And I start to dread my next birthday

No: - Cassie S

Itwillbeokay. “Justdoit! ” friends say. The responsibility and the stress is slowly draining me. Sometimes my fake smile is not enough to cover everything. It feels like every emotion keeps kicking me in the stomach. I’m tired of living up to people’s expectations, I just want to feel free.

My friends told me, “Justdoit! ” So I did. Over and over again I would make the same mistake. I would keep saying yes Even though I knew it was wrong. But my friends told me to do it.

Finally, One day my friends told me “Justdoit! ” But I was so tired

Of pushing away my rights. So I decided to say the only word on my mind, No.

Green HeronMrs. Monica Blatchley

Rises the Moon -

Unbeknownst - Nisa G

In the disconsolateness of the night, the drizzle of the rain, during the undisturbed dawn

Unbeknownst to us, babies burned alive, never to fulfill their lives

Unbeknownst to us, mothers moved aside, never to hug their kids again

Unbeknownst to us, siblings separated, never to bicker again

Unbeknownst to us, everyone doomed, never to be the same ever again

The Clock - Henry S

It’s a clock. Everybody knows it. It times you, It helps you. But most of all, It’s slow. Especially during a test. I sit there.

Watching the clock.

Tik, tok. Tik, tok.

It’s anxiety inducing.

Tik, tok. Tik, tok.

God, I hate that sound. Even though clocks are very useful, I hate them.

Or, at least, the analog kind.

Tik, tok. Tik, tok.

Tik, tok. Tik, tok.

The Time of Ending - Joey S

If the beginning is the end Then time is the gateway A gateway is a portal And a portal is a beginning

Trail to NowhereRiley C

Liam M

Lion-SpireJorge C

Hand From The ShadowsJoey U

Portrait DrawingHenry S

“...continue with my life...”

6 Word Memoirs 2023

6TH GRADE

How to live a great life. - Gabriel A

Eat your vegetables daily to thrive. - Abby B

Don’t eat peanuts; they taste bad. - Charles C

iReady makes life a lot harder. - Zachary C

I’m too stressed. Let me rest. - Doreen D

Pencil writes, homework done, very fun. - Mia D

Big, ugly, words. All around us. - Cayden D

Love, respect, community, family, together, peace. - A’Kayla D

The present is now, future later. - Vaughn E

Life has more ahead than expected. - Dylan F

You will eat all my donuts. - Nathan F

A new challenge turned into triumph. - Konrad F

I love doughnuts and love winning. - Brit F

Texas: swimming pool, out to dinner. - Mackenzie F

We are not the same person. - Ethan F

Art is the best calm break. - Diego G

Beach, swimming in the ocean: Jamaica. - Athena J

Weeds, plants, dirt, harvest, gloves, friends. - Violet K

Sunny day, gray clouds, rain storm. - Gianna L

Lisle Junior High is the best! - Piper M

I really want to play Fortnite. - Maurice M

Do not destroy the school’s property. - Sebastian M

Never eat soggy waffles; they’re bad. - Kendall M

I’m tired. Can I go home? - Danielle N

iReady is truly the worst requirement. - Alexander N

I want to eat donuts today. - John O

I am very tired in school. - Arminas P

Mrs. Nelson’s study hall is best. - Robert R

I will eat all your donuts. - Parker R

Take care of your library books! - Ben S

Guys, how do I do this? - Yousef S

I love to eat my pizza. - Marrion S

I want to go eat pizza. - Hailey S

Blue is pretty. I love blue. - Gabby T

Dark loud hallways. Navigated swiftly. Alone. - Cornelia V

I want to go home now. - Isabella W

Wednesday is full of woe also. - Jermel W

Ew! Cockroaches in Mrs. Park’s room. - Jackson W

Pizza dancing on the school building. - Tommie Z

6th grade has changed my life. - Anonymous

6th grade takes so much time. - Anonymous

Baseball was the best this year. - Anonymous

Being productive is productive; trust me. - Anonymous

Birds chirping, rain dripping, wind blowing. - Anonymous

Breakfast: waffles, bacon, pancakes, syrup, sausage. - Anonymous

Cat goes meow. Dog goes woof. - Anonymous

Cheerleading super fun! Shouting, yelling, cheering. - Anonymous

Chicken goes bawk. Rooster goes cockadoodledoo. - Anonymous

Climb higher everyday of school. - Anonymous

Crazy change, new school, new friendships. - Anonymous

Different, challenging, inspiring, fun, enjoyable, proud. - Anonymous

Dogs are cool; give them love. - Anonymous

Do not be tardy to class. - Anonymous

Do the Y–M–C–A. - Anonymous

Don’t accept defeat. Learn from it. - Anonymous

Eat, sleep, wake–nothing but you. - Anonymous

Find people that care about you. - Anonymous

Food brings out personality in humans. - Anonymous

Have a really, really good day. - Anonymous

Hope. Peace. Love. Life. Us. People. - Anonymous

I am struggling with language arts. - Anonymous

I have 3 very lame brothers. - Anonymous

with my life...”

I like eating lots of food. - Anonymous

I really, really like days off. - Anonymous

I want to pass sixth grade. - Anonymous

Inspiring life passes on another life. - Anonymous

It has been a wild ride. - Anonymous

Lisle Junior High School is hard. - Anonymous

Listen to teachers to learn more. - Anonymous

Middle school is full of work. - Anonymous

Middle school is loads of fun. - Anonymous

Muddy cleats, bright field, hard work. - Anonymous

My life, my voice, my actions. - Anonymous

Never give up on yourself, please. - Anonymous

New friends, new challenges, new activities. - Anonymous

New friendships, big transitions, challenging classes. - Anonymous

Pets, brothers, games, mythology, sports, friends. - Anonymous

Pizza is good with cheese, pepperoni. - Anonymous

School is so fun to do. - Anonymous

School is very, very, very great. - Anonymous

This is making my head hurt! - Anonymous

This place is full of work. - Anonymous

Together, just us. Together, alone, always. - Anonymous

Try your best; work your hardest. - Anonymous

Waffle House has a new host. - Anonymous

Why is school so tiring? - Anonymous

Why is there so much homework? - Anonymous

7TH GRADE

I like basketball. It is cool. - Jacob A

My future is my future legacy. - Julian B

Don’t let fear get to you. - Emily B

I sure do love my lobster! - Jackson B

I will fail my Spanish test. - Laura C

Greece is the best vacation place. - Jacob C

I very much so dislike homework. - Ryan C

I am too tired to write. - Jackson F

Don’t be scared to try anything. - Nathan G

I love cookies; cookies love me. - Elizabeth G

Keep real friends, not fake ones. - Danna G

I slipped on a banana peel. - Damian G

Sports are fun. Please play sports. - Zak H

My toe was in serious pain. - Grace H

Life is short so live big. - Rose H

Don’t give up. Keep on trying. - Chris H

Been questioning my mental health lots. - Zalaria H

When life gives you lemons, eat them. - Caden I

Life is quick; then, it’s gone. - Thomas J

I like games; I play them. - Jaden J

Among Us in real life, sus. - Summer K

Personally, I could never go bald. - Hussain M

Time in nature soothes the mind. - Ephraim M

I don’t know what to write. - Casey N

I met a lot of challenges. - Liam N

Can’t think. Overwhelmed. Thoughts rushing in. - Brenden P

My dream is my future legacy. - Brady P

Don’t cry, don’t frown, just chill. - Cassie S

I have wasted my own life. - Zachary S

Waffle house found its new host. - Henry S

My Singing Monsters. I love them. - Joey S

Welcome to the Halls of Equality. - Soorya T

Don’t assume when at your worst. - London T

I slipped on Damian’s purple banana. - JT T

Among the sussy imposter, crewmates vote. - Angel W

A never ending loop of worth. - Bernadette W

A new year, a new goal. - Anonymous

Station WagonDiego G

with my life...”

Always be kind to your friends. - Anonymous

Basketball, running, passing, dribbling, shooting, basketball. - Anonymous

Bread will take over the world. - Anonymous

Bullying is not an easy situation. - Anonymous

Cherish your childhood. It slowly dies. - Anonymous

Clean rooms were never my friend. - Anonymous

Don’t be scared to try things. - Anonymous

Don’t doubt yourself. You are awesome. - Anonymous

Flowers blooming everywhere. Spring is coming. - Anonymous

Friends will go. Family won’t, though. - Anonymous

I am tired all the time. - Anonymous

I don’t like donuts at all. - Anonymous

I make waffles every day; yum. - Anonymous

I want to go to sleep. - Anonymous

I would rather sleep in school. - Anonymous

Learn the mistakes from the past. - Anonymous

Life gets hard; get back up. - Anonymous

Life with no friends is bad. - Anonymous

Live life to its fullest, everyday. - Anonymous

Mistakes are proof that you´re trying. - Anonymous

Never say no to having fun. - Anonymous

Oui, je parle un peu français. - Anonymous

Procrastination is easy. Guilt is hard. - Anonymous

Self-doubt is a storm cloud. - Anonymous

Soccer is not just a hobby. - Anonymous

Sometimes life can be really hard. - Anonymous

The past has taught me life. - Anonymous

Time flies when you’re having fun. - Anonymous

We will not fall so easily. - Anonymous

What is life with no friends? - Anonymous

You need failure to have success. - Anonymous

8TH GRADE

Don’t contractions count as two words? - Nolan A

Expect the unexpected. Accept the unacceptable. - Centa A

Summer shines, hot nights, happy times. - Katelyn B

Happy birthday to you, Mr. Kearney. - Yohann B

TheBridgetoTerabithia is sad. - Grace C

I just need to let go. - Dani E

Ivan does not do his homework. - Cole G

The gummy bear album, never released. - Eliana G

Girl, dog, lost, loved, missed, found. - AnaLee Rayleen J

Today is the day before tomorrow. - Zohaib K

Penguins are cute when they waddle. - Isabella K

I love the trees in fall. - Molly M

School: fun, enjoyment, great future, amazing. - Eric M

She’s right behind me, isn’t she? - Aminah M

Try; it’s okay if you fail. - Noah N

I like to play the saxophone. - Graham P

My flaws lead to my success. - Brooke R

We can not teleport bread anymore. - Aiden S

Water is a necessity for humans. - Dominic S

This is my memoir, you know. - Ibrahim S

I moved to Lisle from Westmont. - Katie V

Expect and accept, unexpected and unacceptable. - Brooke V

Remove negative people from your life. - Jordan W

Never let anyone steal your joy! - Kyla W

Believe in yourself no matter what. - Anonymous

California, swimming, seeing family, raiders, games. - Anonymous

Don’t quit; it never helps you. - Anonymous

Haters gonna hate. You do you. - Anonymous

Hungry? Eat Taco Bell, flee, bathroom. - Anonymous

I am doing this because doughnuts. - Anonymous

I am very confused. Ya, ya. - Anonymous

FootNikki V

I really like blue birds. - Anonymous

I voted for kid president 2024. - Anonymous

If only we all really cared. - Anonymous

Life can be very stressful sometimes. - Anonymous

Love won’t last, but food will. - Anonymous

My eyes, they deceive me daily. - Anonymous

Never give up on your dreams. - Anonymous

Only you can be unique yourself. - Anonymous

Pool fun, hot nights, summer time. - Anonymous

Riding in the car to Iowa. - Anonymous

Save pup. New home. Now happy. - Anonymous

Sometimes I make things too hard. - Anonymous

There are no solutions, only trade-offs. - Anonymous

Try, fail. Try again. Succeed. Happiness. - Anonymous

What if this just, like exploded? - Anonymous

What if we all became turtles? - Anonymous

STAFF

Readers may digest as writers digress. - Mr. Alexander

A chapter isn’t your entire story. - Ms. Braun

Organization has never been my friend. - Mrs. Byrne

Brimming with coffee, but still drained. - Mrs. Cerny

Always be happy with yourself first. - Mrs. Dooley

Life is short, live the moment. - Mr. Grau

There is just not enough time! - Mrs. McIntyre

Most important a good mindset is. - Mr. McLear

Will you give what it takes? - Mr. Meyer

Take time to pause each day. - Mrs. Norwood

Life’s an adventure- try new things. - Mrs. Parra

Show others the kindness you want. - Mrs. Reband

Years of experience; my second home. - Mrs. Stevens

All the things. All the stuff. - Anonymous

Beautiful People Do Not Just Happen -

I Will - Gryffin N

For all my forefathers and mothers, For all my fellow sisters and brothers, For all of the leaders and all of the others,

I will give up.

For all who have suffered for freedom, For all who have broken their brittle bones, For all who have almost been defeated,

I will give up.

Some might say I’m wasting my gift, But it’s my gift to waste.

So for all who could not relax, And for all would not relapse, For everyone who let me stand here today,

I Will give up.

Ms. Katherine Braun

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