Talia Scarpa ’24
Toni Frank ’24
Natalie Ioannidi ’25
Junior Editors: Alexandra Fahey ’25
Monica Feeney ’27
Rachel Deeney ’25
Sunny Peterman ’26
Moderator: Mrs. McGuiness
We feel privileged to present the Tournesol for the 2023-2024 school year. This year’s works have been compiled from students in all grades, 6 through 12, with each piece reflecting not only the individual but also the Notre Dame community. This year’s theme is “It’s not the Destination, It’s the Journey,” famously said by American essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson. Throughout the year inside the Gates, each community member has been making memories along the way. It’s the moments in between the beginning and the end of our time within the ND Gates that make the destination worthwhile. Everyone’s journey looks different, so all of the pieces within this magazine represent various experiences. Along this journey, there may be bumps in the road, but you still eventually reach your destination. We invite you to take the journey from sixth through twelfth grade with us in this magazine.
Sincerely,
Talia Scarpa & Toni Frank Editors-in-Chief
I feel the salt water touch my foot as I prance closer to the ocean. The wave crashing sounds like instruments twirling in the air my imagination carries me to a whole different world the sun beaming on my face as I wake up in the new world I found my dog lurking outside my door
I get up very lazy walking lonely to the deck that overlooks the ocean. I look at my collection of shells and pick up my favorite one. Just as that happened my eyes fluttered open and I was not at the beach. It is still February, only 4 more months to go and I can't wait.
Aileen Sutton ’30
Rosenberger’25
The feeling of envy fills the air, she is silenced, the liveliness goes away, happiness falls, sadness rises, she spends her days in the shadows, sorrow creeps up on her.
Morgan Hamilton ’30
Summer Heartbreak
I still remember the crisp summer air. You were lurking while I was twirling. When I saw you with another girl, voices beckoned in my head. Our memories replayed in my mind. It was unfair but I’d get over it. You thought she was an angel, but I could tell she was a demon. You were together and later that night you disappeared, but she stood there with a smirk on her face.
Mary Landgraff ’30Not willing to move from town to town
House being shut down, no movement all around
Investigating prestigious homes
Splintering garden gnomes on house lawns
Having hospitality to every new neighbor all around
Trying to be straightforward to my parents about how I do not want to move
I try to pull trickery on my parents to show them not to move
But they always give me a handful of chores to do
My last thing I try to do but I was stricken with a good perspective
My new house isn't a ramshackle
But if it was, we would have many more chores to tackle
I would make new friends but keep the old
I am now excited to move into my new home
-Katelyn Bodge ’30
* based on an assignment to use vocabulary words to create a story
The horse and rider are best friends. One day the horse spooked And rapidly ran away.The horse retreated into the woods. The rider looked high andlow and never lost hope.
The neighbors witnessed all the discord and said to the rider, “He’s lost forever”; he will never come back.”
While the horse was in the woods, he mimicked the other animals.
All the animals became bitter when he mimicked them, so he finally fled the woods.The horse and rider despised each other's absence.
When the horse and rider finally met again, they embraced and both their hearts grew.
Tessa Carl ’30
InthedistanceIheardthewooshofwaves;ohwaitthat'snotwavesit’sDIRT?!?!?!?!?!
AsI’mbeingengrossedinthisintriguingsight,IfeelataponmyshoulderandIjump.Butmy worriessoonchangetolaughterwhenIseemylittlesister,Kass.
“Dinnersready,”shesays.“Momsbeencallingyouforthelasttenminutes.”
“Shewillbeenragedifyoudon'tcomegetdinnernow,Katie,”shewarnsme.
AsItrekbackuptoourkitchen,whichoverlookstheocean,Idaydreamofonedayexploringthe deepblueseawhilesippingonsoup.
Molly DeFrancesco ’30
WhenIcameuponthisplanetmysoulwasgracedwithatwin, ourserendipitousmeetinghadbeenwrittenforcenturiesinthestars. Withhercomfortingcare Ifeellikeglass,delicatecompletelysee through. Sheismorethanafriendandmorethanasister.Sheismy rayoflight,pinkingandpurpling mylife,addingsplashesofcolortoadulldaywhenIseeherthroughmy windowpane
Zahra Umer ’29I was walking in my neighborhood when I saw a girl my age in her yard catching frogs, I hated frogs but still I said “hey.”
She looked surprised but she casually responded asking “what up.”
I bravely said, “wanna hang out?”
She told me to come up.
We got to talking and we were very similar liking songs that fit in the same perimeter, little brothers who are great friends, We talked in the backyard until the day met its end.
She ended up hating nature except for frogs,
I thought god bless or that friendship would have been fed to the dogs.
I didn't know it then but I had found my best friend.
The person who would help me go through so much in the next six years.
The girl who I would help conquer some of her many, many fears.
Something bloomed that spring, Not just flowers.
A duo of people who would sit and talk for hours on hours…
The vibrant hues of early spring bring me joy, As the wind whistles past, a huddle of tulips shakes, I reach down to pick them up, the feel of grass on my fingers tickling me,
As I shake the flowers, I watch the morning dew depart from the petals, like spring showers, sprinkling to let themselves be known, the damp dirt squelching under my bare feet, my face stinging from the wind, The fog clouding the air makes it difficult to see the beautiful flowers that have blossomed since the rain, although a hint of clear skies lifts my spirits, like before, the ground dries as the sun roars its head once more, I love spring, a season of sun, rain, blooming blossoms, and wind that whips like a sail
The winter frost comes and shocks us, a period of shivers and darkness. Oh when will warmth be back, a single day with no coats, I would give anything. The story of our lives, hoping and wishing, never living for today.The sun beams high the warmth is here, she says it’s too hot, the cold cannot come faster. They are always praying for a different time, can never be in a happy state of mind. The good God gave us seasons to enjoy. Times of laughter and happiness through all the great months. Instead when its up to us we let it bring us down. Never enjoying the little things to get us through. Immediately wishing for more. Except we can find our own delight, we will make it through because not everyday has to be disappointment.
Caitlin Murphy ’29
The rain fell steadily on my walk to the small bakery two blocks from my house. Since I go there every Saturday morning, Bri, the barista, has my order ready right away. We exchange my dollar bill for a hot cup of hazelnut coffee with a splash of almond milk, just how I like it. By the time I get home, my coffee is at the perfect temperature and I enjoy it snuggled up on the couch, reading my favorite book.
My Saturday flies by, and Sunday morning arrives. I wake up at 8:00 A.M., pick out an elegant outfit, and make my way to mass. Once church ends, I walk over to Mrs. Linden’s Library, just around the corner. When I walk through the doors, I greet Mrs. Linden, who is hanging up signs about the new historical books they received at the library. I notice Mrs. Linden is holding a copy in her hand titled, Stories of the Titanic, and I know it is for me.
“Hello, Alice”, Mrs. Linden says to me, “While I was stocking up the new historical books on the shelves, I decided to pick one up for you because I knew you would enjoy it.” “Thank you!”, I say as she hands it to me. Then, she says, “You are more than welcome to take a look at the rest of the collection that I just put on the shelves next to the science-fiction books.” As I wander past hundreds of books, something out of the corner of my eye strikes a bright yellow beam of light. Curiously, I snap my head towards the light and see nothing but a stack of science books, such as The Cure to Cancer and Building a Motorcycle. I am sure it is just my mind playing tricks on me, so I continue to the Titanic books. As I walk back to check out with Mrs. Linden, I cannot help but glance at the books just to make sure there is nothing suspicious. To my surprise, the book glowed! Immediately, I grabbed it and ran to Mrs. Linden. As I reached the front desk, Mrs. Linden snatched the book out of my hands, “Do not touch that!” she yells. “Forget you ever saw this book,” she breathed nervously. Confused and slightly intrigued, I check out the history books and walk home.
Throughout my night, I cannot stop thinking about that mysterious book. Questions crowded my head such as, how did it glow, where did it come from, and why did Mrs. Linden take it from me? I need to know the answers, so I go back to the library and take that book. I make it there just before the library closes, and wait until Mrs. Linden stops watching to go behind her desk and take it.
When I get home, I settle in my bed, ready to explore the pages of the mysterious book. I reach over to my nightstand, and the book starts glowing! The words are all mixed up and out of order, and vines escape from the seams. What is going on? How does this happen? Chills run down my body, and suddenly the room goes dark…
It is the next morning, and when I get to the bathroom, I look up to the mirror and scream at the top of my lungs. “AHHH! What happened to me? I switched identities with someone!” I start freaking out and realize that the book I read last night must have cast some sort of spell on me. I pace back and forth in panic and decide I need to go and ask Mrs. Linden what to do.
On my walk, I pass by the coffee shop and cannot help but get a cup of coffee. I walk in and
see a teenage girl who looks like me, almost like she is me! As if it could not be any more obvious, Bri hands her a cup of hazelnut coffee with a splash of almond milk. She has to be the one I switched identities with, so I run over to her and explain all that has happened. I tell her everything about the book and apologize for getting her into this mess. After that, we walk to the library to talk to Mrs. Linden. We enter the doors, and Mrs. Linden is sitting at her desk sorting through papers. “Hi Mrs. Linden”, I say, shaking. She replies, “Hi Alice, I have been expecting you. I warned you about that book. Now it is too late.” Immediately I say, “I am so sorry for taking that book. I was so eager to see what was inside, and now I realize that I should have listened.” “Thank you for saying that. I have been worried sick ever since I noticed the book was missing. Who is this girl with you?”, Mrs. Linden asks.
I introduce her to Mia, the person I switched identities with. Then, Mrs. Linden takes us to the back of the library, where all of the extra books are stored. She grabs a copy of the book I read last night, and on the back it is titled, “The Switcheroo”. Above that, it states, WARNING! ONLY USE IN CASE OF EMERGENCIES! This is certainly an emergency. Mrs. Linden tells us that this is the only thing she can do to help. She hands it to us and we find that it is a recipe with a caption that reads, “Take a bite, and worry you might. But do not fear, because in your own body you will appear.” We head back to my house and gather the ingredients to make the cookies.
An hour later, the alarm goes off. We dash over to the oven and anxiously open it to the smell of fresh cookies baked to perfection. Mia and I do not wait for them to cool off. We are too impatient to get back to our identities and live our normal lives again. “Cheers”, we say to each other. We take a bite and I start to feel dizzy. Suddenly, the room goes black.
The next morning, I hop out of bed and look in the mirror. “Yes!”, I exclaim. I am so grateful to be back in my own body. I decide that I should probably go and return that crazy book before something bad happens again. I walk to the Library and place the book on her desk with a note saying, “Thank you for your help. I promise to listen from now on. See you next Sunday. From, Alice.”
Artwork: Sunny Peterman ’26
InspiredbyEloise Greenfield
Middle o summer when you’re racin on the track
And on your eet you can
eel the pavement
Pushin back
Racin ‘round the bend with your riends
ti ht behind
But honey, let me tell you
I LOVE runnin in the summertime
I love runnin in the Summertime
Nieve Morrison ’28
What I’ve realized is that there are FOUR thin s a person should never say, because they are like WALLS confinin humankind a small our sided fi ure TO leave us there. I can’t, I won’t, no, and never, or et those and RISE be ree like a bird and de y the odds AND never stop fi htin or what is ri ht or what you believe in, so rab your PEN write ballads and poems and make ME proud and show all the haters and box them IN
Try to calm my temper I Need to understand and KNOW Exactly HOW and what is botherin me, rattlin me like A a thunderstorm, makin me erupt like a VOLCANO makin me burst, clenched fists, an ry disposition, I MUST learn how to control and not let an er take over how I FEEL
ItwassummerofJune2005,wehadjustbegunmovingintoournewhomeinthemiddleofnowhere. Forthelongesttimeithasalwaysbeenmeandmymom.IneverthinkaboutwhomydadisorifIhave anysiblings.Ilikethewayitwas,meandmymom,backinouroldtown.Eversincewemoved,nothing hasfeltright;thisnewtowniseerieandwehaveonlyseenfourpeoplesincewebeganourtriphere.The moversweretakingallofthefurnitureanddecorationsoutofthetruck.Itmademerealizethatournew houseismuchbiggerthanouroldone.Mymomyelled,“Emma,getoutofthecarandhelpus!”Iwas dreadingthisthewholeweek,helpingthemoverswithallofourjunk.Wehadsomuchfurniturejustfor twopeople.Luckily,Ionlyhadtomoveallofmyboxesformyroom,andthemoversputalltheother boxesintoourhouse.Momtoldthemoverswheretoputthefurniture.Iwasabouttowalkoutthedoor tohelpwiththelastbitoftheboxeswhenInoticedthatthemoversgaveMomtwokeys.Oneforthe houseandanotherlong,oldkeythatwasrustedallover.Themoversdidnotknowwhatitwasfor,but theyweretoldtogivebothkeystous.MomandIdidn’taskwhatitcouldpossiblybefor.
ItwasgettingprettylatesoIdecidedtogotosleep.Ididn’tevenbothersettingupmybed.I justsnaggedasleepingbagfromthelivingroom.Itookaquickglanceoutthewindowsurprisedto seeabirdlookingintoourhouse.Itwasn’tjustanybird;itwaspurewhite,likeadove.Iwasn’t completelysureitwasadovebecauseitwassodarkoutside,butitsurelookedlikeone.Iwentback upstairsandfellasleeprightawaymostlybecausetodaywaslongandeventful.Iwokeuplatetothe smellofMommakingeggs.Iputonateeshirtandjeans,brushedmyhairandteethandwenttothe kitchentoeattheeggs.“GoodmorningMom.”IsaidasIwalkedintoourkitchen.“Goodmorning Emma.DoyoulikewhatIdidwiththekitchen?Isetupthetable,chairsandkitchenware,”Momsaid inanexcitedway.“Itlooksamazingwithsomefurnitureinit!”Isaid.ThenInoticedthatthe mysteriouskeythatthemoversgaveuswassittingonthecounter.Ifinishedupmyeggsandwaited untilMomwentupstairssoIcouldgetthekey.Shefinallyleftthekitchen,soIgrabbedthekeyand wentupstairs.Inoticedthislittledooracrossfromtheguestroom.Itwasveryshortandnarrow,likeit wasmadeforyoungerchildren.
Iputthekeyinthedoorknob,turnedittotheright,andthedooropenedwithaslow,welcomingsigh,likeit wasrelievedtobeopen..Ihesitatedtogoupthelittlecaseofstairs,butIforcedmyselftogo.Ifoundaroomdecorated withwallpapershowingdovesallover,inallsizes.Someweresittingonbranches;otherswereflyinginafadedbluesky. Therewasalsoadresser.Thewindowwasopen.IwonderedifMomgotthechancetogetupherebeforeIdidandopen thewindow,buthowcouldshe?Atallwomangoingthroughadoorofthreefeet?Thisthoughtmademescaredofwhy thewindowwasopened.Theroomwasverytinyaswell.Iopenedthetopdrawerofthedresserandknockedoveralittle whitebottlestandingonthetopofthedresser.White,smokyairstartedtocomeoutoftheglassbottle.Iquicklyclosed thedraweranddecidedtoignoreit.WhenIlookedatthewallpaperagain,itremindedmeofthebirdfromlastnight. ThenwhenIlookedcloser,Inoticedtheoldwallpaperhadafewdovesmissingandonedovewaspeelingoff.Theroom startedtoscaremesoIdecidedtoleaveandlockthelittledoor.Iputthekeyinmypocketfornow.IheardMomcome outfromherroom,soIrantomyroomhopingshewouldn'tbesuspiciousofme.Shewentdownstairsandcalledme down.“Wouldyouliketocomegroceryshoppingwithme?”shesaid.“Nothanks,IthinkI’mjustgoingtostayhereand gettoknowthehouse.”Isaid.Momleftthehouse.Itseemedmoreeerienowthatitwasjustmeinside.Idecidedtotake alookattheotherroomsinthehouse.Iwalkedovertoadoorthatseemedtobeacloset,butitwasstairsgoingdown. MostlikelyabasementIthought.Igentlyplacedmyrightfootonthefirststepandsoftlymademywaydown.There wasnothinginthebasementsoIassumedthepreviousownerstookeverythingout.Iwalkedaroundthecold,concrete floorandpulledastringhangingfromtheceilingtoturnonalightbulb.ItwasthenthatInoticedapieceofpaperfolded inthecornerofthefloor.Iknewitwasn’tjustabandoneddebris,soIinspectedthemysteriouspapertoseethatitwasa letter.Iopenedtheletterupanditstates,
Dear Reader,
This is the previous owner, Mr. Anderson We owned a zoo not too far from this very house. Our zoo had many animals, but our favorite animals were the exotic birds, especially doves. We were one of the very few zoos to own doves. You may have discovered the third floor; if you have, you have seen the window is opened and maybe even the little bottle in the dresser. I hope no one has spilled or opened the bottle. The potion in the bottle makes the doves on the wall come alive. Please close the window as well. If you forget, it is not a big deal. Just try not to forget more than once, because at night the wallpaper of doves becomes alive, and five fly out of the window every night. The window was left open by my wife when we were cleaning the third floor.
Sincerely,
Mr. Anderson
"Ohno.WhatdidIjustdo?”Isaidoutloud.IheardMomcomehomesoIputthepaper intomypocketfornowalongwiththekey.ItwasgettinglatesoIsaidgoodnighttomom andwenttosleepwithouteatingdinner.Iwokeinthemiddleofthenighttothesoundof bangingandmovementfromwhatseemedtobefrom…thethirdfloor.Terrified,Igotupfrom mybedatthespeedoflight,grabbedthekey,andranupthestairstothethirdfloor.IknewI shoulddowhatMr.Andersonsaidintheletter,soIgrabbedthekeyfrommypocketand openedtheshortdoor,andmademywayupthestairsandsawatleastthirtybirdsflyinginthe room,soIranthroughtheflappingdovestogettothewindowandcloseit.Thedovesfroze, andintheblinkofaneyethedoveswerebackonthewallpaperjustlikenormal,butInoticed threedovesweremissing.Iputthecaponthebottlethatwasonthefloorandsawalittle rectangularpieceofpapernexttoit.Thepapersaid The Third Floor.Iputthepaperinmy pocketfornowandswiftlyrandownthestairs,closedtheshortdoorandmadesuretolockit. Iwentbacktomybedroomandlaidinmybedwideawakewonderinghowthisiseven possible.WasIdreaming?Icouldn'tbecausetheletterisreal.Itookoutthekey,theletter,and thelittle The Third Floor paper.Isatupinmybedandspreadalloftheobjectsoutonmybed.I thenrealizedhowimportantthishousewastotheAndersonFamily.Theyadmiredthedoves, sotheymadeakeytokeepthedovessafe.Theymadeapotionforthedovessotheycan experiencethesemagicaldovescomealive,andMr.Andersonwrotealetterforthenext ownerstoshowhowtokeepthedovessafe.Itookthekey,letter,andpaperandputitinmy pocketfornow.Mynextmysteryiswheredothedovesgo?
I am Athletic and Outgoing
I wonder why the world has hatred
I hear the beauty of the birds chirping
I see the helping of kids on campus
I want to always be happy
I am Athletic and Outgoing
I pretend to be serious
I feel the waves crashing against my back
I touch the cold pool
I worry about the challenges in the future
I cry when I'm upset
I am Athletic and Outgoing
I understand not everything goes my way
I say hello
I dream of going to the Olympics
I try to always be kind
I am Athletic and Outgoing
Avery Holzer ’28
I am smart and kind
I wonder who I am supposed to be
I hear my heart beating
I see trees come crashing down
I want to stand them upright again
I am smart and kind
I pretend to be funny
I feel my happiness rise
I touch other’s hearts
I worry other’s worries
I cry a river
I am smart and kind
I understand everyone can’t like me
I say I can hold on too tight
I dream to let go
I try to be myself
I am smart and kind
Lindsay Cooper ’28
I am kind and caring
I wonder what I will do when I get home
I hear people typing
I see people sitting in their desk
I want to do good in school
I am kind and caring
I pretend that I can do anything
I feel happy
I touch the keys on my computer
I worry when I have to take a test
I cry when I am sad
I am kind and caring
I understand that everyone is different in their own way
I say nice things to people
I dream to become a nurse
I try my best
I am kind and caring -Anonymous ’28
“I Am”
I am kind and friendly
I wonder if other people play sports
I hear the balls dribbling and the nets swishing
I see all my friends that i love at school
I want a dog
I am kind and friendly
I pretend to be good at school
I feel my palms getting really sweaty
I touch food because I’m hungary
I worry that people don't like me
I cry when I can't get dog
I am kind and friendly
I understand that everyone is different in there own way
I say hi to all my friends
I dream that I am famous
I try be nice to everyone
I am kind and friendly
Anonymous ’28
Ninth Grade
The sea knocked everything beloved. Colors of the brilliant sky through the window call me. My feet gently roam the sand to find the sea.
Be yourself, it is home.
Stand like a statue with a smile observing the beauty. Tired memories do not carry back to land without effort.
You won’t forget the love you hold in your heart at the shore
Maeve McDonald ’27 Margaret Hayden ’24An anti-gift bestowed by God
Mortals entranced in her beauty
The world forever is ravelled in her alluring force
Weakened in her presence
Like the sight of the sea, suffocating with a flavored scent of perfumed shore
Her smile destroys the strongest fortresses
Not like the war which she was the reason for
But the craft ofAphrodite used to persuade
Claimed but not understood she is the forgotten force
Her one man army stands unmatched, neither by Greece norTroy
Once the sparks strik watch the flames
Everything beloved burned in the hands of a demigod
Grandeur of beauty in night itself
Unsure of what is beyond you, be weary
Beloved Helen is the ichor in the veins of war
Jordan Hartley ’27
The sea I was kept in
No freedom do I dare
I feel in my heart a touch of divine
The fire in your eyes will burn
And I will choose love
I am weak
But I can claim cities
It is a war against love in the end
So I am tired and do not understand
I put in effort but I am still burned
I travel to Greece
Just to see your face
Your beauty exudes power and grace
The seas I crossed brought me to you
And your shining hair
Which feels like home
Paige Moran ’27
The beauty of the sky could tear down cities
The sun, with its divine fire, shines upon the land
The perfumed sea hugs the shore
Looking at the world, its beauty makes me weak
I am never tired and always glad
Spending time with beloved friends, And roaming the land
I hope this season will never end, and I will never be weary
The scenery of the flowers is a brilliant sight
The glory of God has brought this magnificent gift to us
And the beauty of it all holds my heart
I am free to run in the land and swim in the sea
All the beauties of summer mean so much to me
Kylie Mattson ’27 Talia Scarpa ’24Ambrosia stands on the porch of a rustic house that he had been to many times before Sawyer sits inside with his gun resting by the door
Three knocks from Ambrosia echo through the room
Sawyer understands, knowing that last night's activities would resume
Sawyer open the door, warm light flooding Ambrosias face “May I enter, please” “You are always welcome in this place.”
The curse of the door is now broken, Ambrosia free to come and go
Sawyer could only smile a sweet, beaming glow
A vampire and a cowboy, best friends for life
But Sawyer doesn't know that Ambrosia holds the knife
Sawyer lives alone. He has for a long while
Nothing but cows and and fields for quite a few miles
The crickets of the night are his favorite sound
Occasionally interrupted by the call of his hound
The sun rises over a new horizon
A golden light falls upon the herded bison
Light comes through the window, the blinds are swiftly shut
Sawyer knows Ambrosia is still there, asleep in his hut.
Gwen Miller ’27
`
Your beauty so divine Your smile that outshines Women aspire to be you Men are weak and wild for you
Your brilliant smile is enough for war That people forget the cities that thrived before Desperate yearning for your love
S ent warriors to glory up above
Your heart is full with only one care Which makes life become unfair
The people are tired of competing And want to lay their weapons down They believe in you to bring them home
Do not forget who you are
You have the power to bring peace to Our beloved Greece
Cate Naylor ’27 Helen of SpartaThe sun beating down on the earth like fire
Swaying trees and flowers I admire. The seed was placed gently with love
In the soil put by a glove. It had to claim its spot in the ground In which the dirt had to surround. I sit in the grass and listen to the barks of the dogs And the croaks of frogs
A Week and a half has gone by and nothing happened
The clouds in the sky blackened I try to understand what is going on But waiting just takes too long.
Everything started to blossom and sprout
But my flower was just too short and stout. I could see how much effort it took And how tired it looked.
Spring is supposed to be divine, But my flower didn’t shine.
Summer rolled around and I went to the sea. I had to forget my flower and just let it be. When I returned home, My beloved flower was my own. Its beauty glistened As I sat down to listen.
The birds chirping and the city traffic beeping The goddess-looking willow still weeping
I see a smile in the reflection of the puddle, Although it’s very subtle.
A woman stood behind me as the wind made the water ripple. My mother sits on the bench beside me, the rainwater trickles. Her brilliant, wise words flooded my brain, Some, she would have to explain.
Her hand strokes my back with a present behind me
A beautiful flower that is just as beautiful as she.
Meghan Owen ’27
Imprisonment or freedom?
Standing before the sea and sky I surrender my beloved peace, And I leave you the shell of my heart Its as strong as iron yet runs with the blood of ambitions
My weary soul aches for the life I have not yet lived. You chain me to the prison of what I should be, what you want me to be. My smile will fade, and my wild yearn will cease. Yet, I have knocked down the walls, and burned the frame of what you demand of me
I stand at the shore, holding out my tired hands, longing for the aspirations that I desire.
I reach to claim my divine wish, They radiate the beauty of the life I want.
I gently grasp them as they roam to me.
I welcome my dreams home with love and warmth. I finally let go of your grasp and accept the brillant Life of my own.
Sofia Mulligan ’27Helen, the half god woman Maddie Mafodda ’27
Beloved by men
Blood of gold
Whom I want to belong to me
Her hair, so soft to the touch
Oh how I love that goddess
Oh, how divine
The journey I will make is not for the weak
I may even shed a tear
Just to see that girl smile
Helen, Helen my dearest sweet Helen
Your wild energy has me shiver
I will tremble on my knees
For you do not understand
How my love for you grows each day
Your beauty makes me sing I will travel the whole sea for you
A wanderer even seeks you
Your native people envy you
I am desperate to find you
I shall forever have glory when I find you
My brilliant grandeur you are to look forward to upon my arrival
Classic Christmas music flows through the air, Cookies flavored as peppermint for everyone to share. Visitors knocked at the door as the fire burned, Children claim the presents that they have earned. Desperate shoppers look for a last minute gift, Decorated cities cause Christmas spirit to lift. A Nativity statue rests on the shelf, Our hearts become so full, No one thinks of themself.
The beauty of Christmas is wonderful, The effort we provide will never stumble.
The reason for the season is very different from what we know, The Divine Son brings glory to help us grow. We acknowledge Christ’s sacrifice for us, The blood he shed and death suffered for our plus.
Someday we will be led to the Holy Land, At home with Christ we will stand. He led us to freedom in the face of horror, The freedom he blessed us with generations before her. He makes sure we never become weak or weary, Our beloved Christ loves us dearly. The Lord shields us so the devil cannot strike,
The Christmas season celebrates the birth of the protector of our life.
Lily King ’27
Next in the town center was an elderly man
When he sees the American flag, he knows he must stand
Dressing in the same jeans and button-down
He is recognized and honored by each man in town
When he was twenty-three, he wore army green
Sixty years later his knees find a place to lean
Every wrinkle holds a memory he will cherish
Bringing him back to his childhood parish
During his time, he was often woken by an explosion
Nowadays, he keeps his service and devotion unspoken
However, he always has a warm and genuine smile
And jokes lasting him a long sixty miles
He often says, “I'll take my 60s Chevrolet
Over a high-tech import any day.”
He used to change his own tires and breaks
But now he finds himself at Pep-Boys because his back aches
The elder often thinks about how much has changed
For just one tank of gas, about $75 is to be exchanged
He says “I still keep my paper map in the compartment of my car
However, now my phone can tell me the best route to get that far.”
He has watched many seasons change and turn
All of his life lessons allowed him to learn
He now passes his advice and lessons to the young and fresh
So that they may live a life that is truly cherished and blessed
Withherdazzlingwhitesmile
Andelegantstyle
Herflawlessblondehair
Andcold,witheringstare
Hascountlessbrandsponsors
Withanattitudeofunbothered
Shewalkstherunway
FullofBotoxandhairspray
Foractingshehasaflair
There’snodoubtthere
Butshe’sneverwithoutascandal
Likehowincollegeshewasavandal “Shebulliedmeinhighschool, Alwayspushedmefrommystool”
TMZsendsthestory
Butshestillgetstheglory
Shestaysintheconstantspotlight
Goesvirallip-syncingto“Daylight”
Becausecancelculturetakespity
Ifyou’reblondeandpretty
Sheknitsandcrochets
Sometimesall-day
Toherfamily,sheisknownforbaking
Toherex-husbands,forheartbreaking
Whenshewasyoungshecouldn’tgiveanyflack
Ifshehad,shewouldhavegottenquiteasmack
Thesekidscurselikesailors,shehaslostallhope
Shesays“Idoubtthey’veevertastedabarofsoap!”
Herhairisthinandgray
Andherwrinklesareheretostay
Thoughherbonesmaybeweak
Herwisdomisatitspeak
HergrandkidsmadeherdownloadSnapchat
It’shardertodothanthantamingabobcat
FacebookMessengerwashardenoughforhertouse
Shewisheswrittenletterswerestillproduced.
Inhereyes,heroutfitneverlacks
Justadifferentcolorsweaterandapairofslacks
Kidsaremakingmoneyfrom Beingtiktokers
Inherdayyouwouldfindmoreworkinginfarmsasflockers
Teenswalkaroundwiththosethingsintheirearslikeglue
Aretheycalledearpodsorairbuds?Shehasn'taclue
Ella Simko ’25Shelby Parker ’26
Shewasinsecure,nothinglikehermother
Shedidn’thavethoseniceultramarineeyesorthepoise
Shewasskinny,gaunteven,withanemptystomachtocompensateforherbeauty
Constantlycomparedandthirstedfor,ridiculedforhowshewas
“Sheonlygetsthoserolesbecausehermomis-”
Shealwayshadtobehumble,nomatterwhat
Eventhoughshewasgiddywalkingontheredcarpet
“Lookoverhere!Weloveyou!Pose!Pose!”
Acrookedsmileformedasherstomachcramped
Sheconstantlyomittedherdread,litupandletloose
Herfriendsareuneasy,yetthemen,theydepend
“Oh,butwhy?”Asmallsipofthefermentedgrape
“Itcannotbesovile!”,sheproclaimsandassumesso
Shetakesafewmoresips,andtheliquidgracesherlips
Herfeelingsoverflow,theypourintothecupofthelens
Truedispositionbreaksfreeasthevinefruitengulfsallserendipity
Themen,swarmaroundherjustlikerabiddogsgawkingatscrapsofmeat
Atthecrackofdawn,sheisweary,obsolete
Herphoneisasymphony,andsheslurs,“Whatisgoingon?”
Thefairvitalityofbeingeighteenandnepotism-ridden
Alleyesareonyou,youwilljustneverbeunseen
Thenewscaptionreadsasclearasday
“ThisFamousActress’sDaughterCaughtDancinglikeaCabaret”
Sheclutchesherlushpajamaset,adjournedwithLandV’s
Pangsofnauseatookoverandshecouldnotsee
Timewastransient,shearosefromahospitalbed
Notawarmfuzzygreeting,onlyhermotherwhostoodthereinstead
“Donotfret,yes,Itookcareofit,butnowtheyaskyoutostarinabiopic
Ornotevenso,maybejustaninterviewortwo,youevengotafewmodelinggigs
IpromiseIdonotconstrue”
“SoItakeityouarenotmad?”Thegirlbegstobesparedofshame
“Ohyes,Iam,butasmystar,Iseeyourotherclaimstofame”
Artwork: Ella Simko ’25
She sat in the corner glued to her phone
Hoping no one would notice her eating lunch alone.
The next day she is back with her big group of friends, Secretly wishing for the lunch and the attention to end.
She is shaking inside but doesn't let it show, Bottling it up so no one will know.
Her voice fills up a room, She is so happy they assume.
Endlessly scrolling at night through social media,
Wondering why she does not look like the girl in the picture.
She tries to fit in the best she can,
Even if that means changing herself by getting a tan.
Every month it’s back to the salon to add highlights to her hair, But even then, she wonders why she wasn’t invited there. She layers makeup on her face every morning,
She does not recognize herself one day, without a warning. She is wearing what other girls wear, Lululemon is not that rare.
Standing in front of the mirror,
The bronzed, blonde, tiny girl can’t see herself any clearer. She focuses on school,
She can’t work during the school year is her rule.
She has to get good grades and be smart,
But not a nerd which would ruin her popular start. She wonders about things no one seems to get, And stays up through the night to fret.
All of this is covered up with a dainty laugh, While she was wondering if people only knew a half.
Artwork: Ella Simko ’25
NDA2025
Haveyoueverknownsomeoneyoujustwantedtoerase?
Well,formethatpersondidandtheguiltstillshowsonmyface
Inschool,therewasagirleveryoneadmired
Shewasalwaysinpowerandknewwhattranspired
Myclasswasgoingonacampingtripnextweek
Buttherewasastorygoingaroundthatwouldevenmakethebravestgomeek
“Thereissomethingwaitingforusinthosewoods,”onesaid
Noneofusbelievedhimaboutwhatwouldcomeahead
WewentonacampingtripjustmyclassandI
ButtherewasthatgirltherethatIjustwantedtosay“bye”
Shehadaslylookonherfacenomatterthetime
SoIthoughtofsomethingtoscareher,justalittlelie
Itoldherastoryinthedarkaroundthecampfirethat everyoneknewwell
Itwent,“Inthewoodswhenitgetsdark
Ifyou'reintherightplaceyou'llseeaspark
Onlythebravestcouldgoouttoseeit
Isthisbadorgood?Noonefollowedthrough,allquit.”
Shewasthefirsttosay“Weshouldgo!”
Istartedtotaunther“You’renotbrave,youcouldneverdoit” butshedidn’tsurrender
Myplanhadgonewrong,neverdidIthinkthatliewouldgo onforever
Iwantedtosilenceandscareherbutshegotveryannoying
SoIwentalongwithherclaimsandsaid“Finegooutandtry tofindsomething!”
Butshedidandweallwaitedforhertocomebackpatiently
Wesatinthedarklookingaroundateverynoiseweheard thinkingitwasher,mistakenly
“I’mgoingtojoinher,”oneannouncedwithlittleintellect
“Metoo”,itwasabigdominoeffect
Soonitwasmesittingalonewaitingforthemalltocomeback
InaminuteIheardascream,thenanotherinthepitchblack
Iranawaynevertoseethemagain
Andeversincethen,mymindgoestothatdaywaybackwhen.
Sienna Shaw ’27
The blanket is heavy, and the day feels wrong
I can’t feel a thing
Staring at the wall all day long.
My thoughts are scrambling
My heart is heavy
My mind feels like a shell
I just want to get up and move already
But my body feels like hell.
Doing homework feels like running a race
But trying to relax feels like a chore.
All my hobbies feel out of place
I just want to feel how I did before.
It must be the season as the winter leaves
Spring is coming, but all I feel is numb.
The weather is warmer as the Flowers begin to upheave
Seeing the sun in the morning but all I want is the night to come.
I can't wait till summer when I am bathed in the sun's warm rays
This will all be behind me and I can look forward to my day.
Izzy Mendoza ’25 Art: Coco Mongkholrat ’27IhopeIcanheal.
IhopeIcanlearntopatchmyselfup inawaythatispermanentlikethesolidificationofcement. Andnotamannerastemporaryastaping Iwanttoventureoutofmycomfortzone whichdoesnotfeellikecomfortbutratherasubconscioushell. InthenewyearIhopetoletmyselfdeservethings.
IhopeIcannolongerfeelguiltyforreceivingpositivefeedback andthatIletmyselfbeasconfidentasapeacockspreadingher artisticroundedwings. Inthenewyear,Ihopetobeahappierversionofmyself likeIknewIwasmeanttobe.
I remember princess nightgowns and my mom braiding my wet hair after a bath. She always put a towel on my pillow so I wouldn’t get my sheets wet with my hair.
I remember playing with the old doll house that sat in the basement of my grandma’s house, the same one my mom played with as a kid. I played with her old Little People, vintage wooden ones that hadn’t been sold since the 80s. The only way I could get new ones would be from charity.
I remember two twin beds filled with so many stuffed animals that a person could barely fit. Princess canopies hung over the beds and a flowery shelf hung on the hot pink wall.
I remember screaming at my little brother as he undressed my Calico Critters. My mom forced him to play with me as a punishment, and I got even more upset when he didn’t play exactly the way I wanted him to.
I remember Kumon packets covered in red circles and wet from tears. I hid ripped Kumon pages in the trash, hoping the instructors didn’t notice.
I remember whispering to my sister throughout the night, passing notes and giggling. My mom would scream to be quiet and go to bed, only making us laugh even harder.
I remember the Nancy Drew books my dad would read to me and struggling to stay awake to hear the plot twist at the end of each chapter. No matter how many books he read to me, I could never figure out the answer to the mystery before it was revealed.
I remember summers at sleepaway camps, dreading coming home and starting school again. I spent all day gardening, doing art and crafts, riding horses, playing tennis, and swimming in the lake.
I remember birthday parties at Sweet and Sassy, mani pedis, and wearing princess dresses down the runway. Every year I repeated the same party again, never getting bored of it.
I remember eating buttered noodles with parmesan cheese and rolls at holiday dinners. My grandma was in the kitchen having to cook me a separate meal from everybody else because I was so picky.
I remember throwing around a frisbee in the backyard of my grandma's house and throwing it over the fence on purpose so I could go into the neighbors lawn.
I remember eating ice cream and watching Family Feud with my grandpa in the sunroom. He told me how smart I was anytime I guessed an answer correctly, and I felt so proud.
I remember when my grandpa would watch true crime instead, and the fear I had when the episode was about a child abduction. I became paranoid about my brother getting kidnapped when he was playing outside or my mom forgetting to lock the front door. For Christmas I got security cameras.
I remember trying to swing in sync with my siblings on the swing set in my backyard. We pushed our legs out at the same time but we were always slightly off.
I remember the lunches my mom packed for school, and complaining about how she repeated the same foods everyday. Eventually she made me buy my lunches from the cafeteria, and I immediately regretted complaining.
I remember fighting with my friends over a spot on a bean bag during quiet reading time. I pretended to read my book as I pushed people off my seat. When we had to give book talks I had to make up big elaborate lies about a book I never read.
I remember sitting in my princess playhouse and watching Odd Squad and Word Girl on my pink kindle fire. I snuggled into a blanket and watched episodes till my eyes hurt.
I remember trips to the dentist and playing arcade games in the waiting room as I waited for my turn. After my teeth were cleaned, I would steal handfuls of prizes from the prize box and stuff them in my pocket.
I remember yearly Disney cruises and makeovers at the Bippity Boppity Boutique. My cruises were spent getting my hair braided at the beach, making friends at the kids club, and taking selfies with Mickey Mouse.
I remember playing Roblox on my iPad and spending hours trading to get a unicorn on Adopt Me. I spent gift card after gift card to buy more virtual pets, just to brag to my friends how much Robux I had.
I remember being too scared to climb the rock wall at recess, watching all my friends from the ground. Everytime I tried I would lose my footing and jump down.
I remember leaving out carrots, cookies, and milk for Santa and his reindeer and stalking the Santa Tracker app. I could barely sleep as I imagined waking up to presents.
I remember family reunions in Hawaii, going to luau and seeing second cousins I didn’t know existed. I would reunite with my cousins from New Zealand, and it would feel like we spent no time apart. I tanned on the beach, swam in the pool, and ate pineapple till my mouth burned.
I remember collecting Japanese erasers, but never actually using them so I wouldn’t destroy their cuteness. They sat inside my night table, still in their packaging.
I remember the excitement I felt after my tooth fairy pillow had a dollar inside of it instead of a tooth. It was so magical that I would pretend to lose teeth, crushing up paper in a tooth shape. When I woke up I was disappointed to find that the tooth fairy hadn’t fallen for my trick.
I remember my childhood wonder and keep it in a little box on my nightstand, knowing it’s there just in case I need it again.
Giangiulio ’24
Katie McNeill ’25
Celeste
Talia Scarpa ’24
Hello,
A word that starts, begins It lets others know where you've been.
That can take courage and bravery to say,
A word that you hear every day. In the halls, on a walk, passing by
Letting others know you see them by saying "Hi.””
An action that introduces and acknowledges Creating new connections without stoppage.
Hello, a word much deeper than you think Allowing new relationships to be made in a blink.
Mendoza ’25
Kara Dougherty ’25
Artwork: IzzyThe spider uses all eight of his fuzzy, angular legs to climb the gray basement wall. He is unseen, blending in with dark spots on the neglected concrete and using his many eyes to examine his surroundings. He moves quickly, as if anticipating what will happen if he hangs around for too long. The spider alternates between two sets of legs, twitching each one and forcing himself forward, feeling around with his remaining limbs and gripping the wall as hard as his small frame allows. He works methodically up the wall, inching his way back to his web, to safety. The girl sees him. She shrieks and stares at him, too afraid to look away, for fear of what he’ll do behind her turned back. She thinks of getting a tissue, of taking off her shoe, of grabbing the first thing she sees to rid the world of this unfavorable creature, and gains the confidence to bend over and pick up a book. The dust on the table makes it slip from her hands and she takes a second to regain her bearings. Standing up, she notices that the spider is no longer in her line of sight. He will make it back to his web this time, but probably not the next. He’s too dark, too small; he has too many legs, and is much too quiet. He’s too scary to be left alive.
Natalie Ioannidi ’25
There is something to be said about resilience and determination both on and off the track. As a track runner, I have expected to face many setbacks and victories. However, recent events have taught me the importance of being resilient and what it means to be a true winner. A true winner does not always mean coming in first place. Sometimes, you have to lose in order to win.
Born with a competitive spirit, it has always been important for me to succeed and excel in whatever I do. So, last Friday was my first track meet of the season, and I was excited and full of competitive spirit. Each and every meet, I am well prepared and ready to go. This track meet was the same. My parents are always present and cheer me on, which encourages me to do well. This was no different, except I told my parents that they did not need to attend due to my stepfather’s recent illness. This was mistake number one. My support system was not present. I arrived to be met by many advanced runners. Some were friends, some I had seen at previous meets, and some were strangers. I was not intimidated at all. A couple of hours passed, and then it was my turn. I lined up and was ready to go. A girl much larger than me elbowed me at the start-up line, and I became very intimated. I started strong and was determined to make myself proud and be the victor. As I ran down the track, slightly behind the girl who elbowed me, I tripped on her foot behind, and down I went. I fell straight to the ground in front of the entire crowd. My diamond tennis bracelet went flying. My knees were bloody and bruised. However, that fall did more than damage my body. My spirit was damaged. I don’t think I have ever been more embarrassed in my life.
Despite how I felt both physically and emotionally, I managed to get up and finish the race. All I could think of then was that I was not a quitter. I told myself to get up. I could also clearly hear my mother’s voice. “Never quit”. At that moment, I quickly reflected on my life. I have been knocked down many times, and, in many instances, gotten right back up. I did not come this far to give up now. I am a black girl at a predominantly white institution, taking difficult classwork, being pushed aside at every turn and still managing to stand. I could undoubtedly overcome another knockdown. The rap song lyrics, “Win, Win, Win, No Matter What,” played in my head. Despite my desire to win, continuing the race was more about the willingness not to quit and to set an example that everything is not about winning. Sometimes you have to lose to win. My family and I have always prided ourselves on not quitting and continuing our journey despite any setbacks that we may face. This was no different; I used the fall as motivation instead of an excuse or setback. I was in horrible pain running that race, but I was determined to cross that finish line.
The lesson to be learned here is a significant one. Never give up despite how many obstacles are in your path. I ended up finishing the race, and I did not come in last. The Bible is clear that all things are possible through Christ and that no weapon formed against me will prosper. The girls pushed me, and I refused to respond. Her actions nor my fall prevented me from finishing the race and reaching my goals. I have faced many challenges, and this was one of significance. My actions stand as an example of how to face challenges. Although upset and embarrassed, I turned this experience into a positive one, and I still stand as an example of confidence and determination. Moreover, I am assured that with God, I can overcome all obstacles and all things are possible.
- Hilary Whitaker ’24
Rip my heart out from my hands, I can’t hold it any longer.
Blurry nights and moon-bright sands, gray with winter’s dreamy somber.
Waves that break and turn and yearn, clouds that fade into the stars.
Far away but oh so close, I see Jupiter and Mars.
Molly Taft ’24
Two days ago, I stepped outside, The morning air was cool at dawn. I had to stop during my drive, In front of me, a little fawn.
The headlights stopped her in her tracks. I couldn’t see her mother there. Don’t deer usually come in packs? I couldn’t help but catch her stare.
It’s like we came from the same soul, recognizing each other’s forms. I look at her and I feel whole, A flower in a thunderstorm.
Tat Tvam Asi, Tat Tvam Asi, There I am, staring back at me.
Om Tat Sat, supreme reality, Oh, such a wild thing, to be.
She jumps into the air, alarmed. Like a dance she frolics and leaps. Soon she runs across the yards, Through the woods and over the creek.
Oh, little deer, gentle and sweet, You caught my eye, don’t forget me, Memories like this are bittersweet, That you are…Tat Tvam Asi.
Molly Taft ’24
Lauren Peyton ’24
Molly Taft ’24
Jordan Elsasser ’24
Against the calm storm She finds shelter in a bush
Waiting out the rain.
Artwork:MaeveHerrin’26
I believe that God has a plan for every one of us, but we have the free will to make decisions for ourselves. I have encountered problems in my life but have the knowledge that I'm never alone because God’s there. What brings me joy is playing field hockey, being on the team, and creating friendships. I wasn’t getting the playing time I thought I deserved, my initial reaction was frustration and anger. I sat on the sideline resenting and questioning my future commitment to the team. I felt defeated and embarrassed because of the time I put into this team and sport. What I realized was that because I wasn’t contributing on the field as my other teammates, I was contributing in other ways. I am able to lift up my teammates with a positive attitude and practice with my team to prepare for games. I learned that my attitude affects others and leads to victories. From that point, my perspective changed and I chose to surrender to God's plan. I believe this challenge in my life was a part of God’s plan and in the end, there's always a beneficial outcome. It is natural to face setbacks throughout life. In my family we live by the saying “To whom much is given, much is expected.” (Luke 12:48) We are all bringing our dreams and goals with us and we should all expect to encounter adversity and challenges in our pursuit of those dreams. It is my goal to support my peers when facing those obstacles.
What stands in the way becomes the way.” Marcus Aurelius
Siena Hobson ’24
Talia Scarpa ’24
“Soy Orgullosa de ser de México”
Audrey Gonzalez ’24
Soy orgullosa de ir a Cancún, México.
Soy orgullosa de mis abuelos.
Soy orgullosa del olor de la playa.
Soy orgullosa de la ciudad de México.
Soy orgullosa de la sensación de casa.
Soy orgullosa de tocar la arena.
Soy orgullosa de ver Chichén Itzá.
Soy orgullosa de la comunidad.
Soy orgullosa de los Prickly Pears
Soy orgullosa del sol tan caliente como un horno.
Ellie Biborosch ’26
Los Patas de Rory
Emma Voegele ’24
Los patas de mi perro son muy grande,
Les encanta bailar por la pista como una bailarina.
Los patas de mi perro tocan una canción por el suelo,
La canción dice “tap tap tap.”
Las patas de mi perro son muy esponjosas,
Ellos se ensucian cada vez que dan un solo paso.
Los patas de mi perro se pueden escuchar desde cualquier lugar,
Se vuelven más rápidos cuando estás emocionado de casa.
Las patas de mi perro nunca deja de moverse,
A menos que tenga algo que no debería tener…
SoyOrgullosadeiraOceanCityNewJersey Jordan
Elsasser’24
SoyorgullosadelapizzadeliciosadeMancoyManco.
SoyorgullosadetrabajarenKohrBrothers.
SoyorgullosadelastiendasasenAsburyAvenue.
Soyorgullosadeiralapasarelaporlanoche.
Soyorgullosademontarlabicicleta,nousaruncoche.
Soyorgullosadelaarenacalienteenlasplayas.
Soyorgullosadepasartiempoconmifamiliaenmicasa.
SoyorgullosadeiraWawaconmisamigasparacomprarcomida.
SoyorgullosadeseguirelamordemiPoppopyMommompor OceanCity.
Artwork: Quinn Discher ’26
“Una
OdaalaPuestaDelSol” Megan McCabe ’24
Lapuestadelsol,unregalouncielo, Concolorescálidosydestellosbrillantes, Pintandoelhorizonteconsupincel, Suluzdoradameencanta, Lapuestadelsol,unasensacióndetranquilidad, Quellenamicorazóndefelicidad, Mirodesdemicasa, Admirandoloscoloresnaranjayrosa, Lapuestadelsolescomounabrazocariñoso, Siempreestaráallí
Mi Stanley
Sydney Peyton ’24
Mi botella de aqua es mi mejor amiga.
Es tan alta como en rascacielos.
Mi botella de agua es tan verde como las luces de neón.
Mi botella de aqua camina so conmigo a todas partes.
Mi Stanley mantiene el aqua muy fría.
Mi botella de agua es tan consoladora como una amiga.
Mi botella de agua hace que el aqua sea refrescante.
Uso mi botella de agua todos los días.
Me trae alegría cuando hay agua fría adentro.
Mi botella de agua está siempre conmigo.
Mi Cama
Peyton Cella ’24
Mi cama es una nube.
Mi cama es suave.
Cuando llego a casa mi cama me llama.
Siempre extraño mi cama en la escuela.
Mi cama es mi lugar feliz.
Mi cama me trae paz.
Mi cama es la fuente donde se forman mis sueños.
Mi cama es un paraíso.
Mi cama es blanca con flores.
Mi cama es mi zona de confort
“Whenitfeelsscarytojump,that’sexactlywhenyoujump.Otherwiseyouendupstayingin thesameplaceyourwholelife”(AbelMorales).Jumpinginthepoolatthemotherdaughterpicnic hasbeenaneventIlookedforwardto.Inseventhgrade,Iremembermyelementaryschoolfriend showingmeavideoofhersister,whowasamemberoftheyellowclassof2019,jumpingintothe pool.MyseventhgradeselffoundthisfunmilestoneevenmoreofareasontoconsiderNotreDame forhighschool.IshadowedNotreDamethatsameyear.Irecallthestudentstellingmehowthe plungeinthemiddleofSeptemberwasanexclusiveseniortradition.Otherthantheplunge,thepool isclosedofftoeveryone.Ialwayswonderedwhynooneelsecouldswiminthepoolwhenitsat unutilizedfortherestoftheyear.
ThisSeptember,itwasfinallymyturntojumpintothepoolwithmyonehundredandeight redsisters.Weheldeachothers’handsaswesubmergedonthecountofthreeintotheglistening waterasourmothers,grandmothers,specialsomeones,andfriendswatchedus.Thewaterwas warmerthanIthoughtitwouldbe.WhenIaroseoutoftheaquamarineripples,Ilookedovertosee mymomwithinthepoolperimeters,smilingandbeamingwithjoy.Shewastakingmorepictures thanIcouldcount,sothatIcouldhaveatangiblekeepsaketoreminiscebackonthismoment.I swamovertomyfriendstogivethemhugsasItriedtostayafloat.RedleisdriftedaroundmeasI lookedoutpastthestonegatetoseemyyoungerNotreDamesisterswitnesstheenjoymentofthis uniqueexperience.MyclassmatesandIcontinuedtoswimaroundaswelaughedaboutthe entertainingabsurdityofthesituation-swimmingaroundinouruniformsintheschoolpoolas everyoneattheluncheonwatched.
ThiseventwasthefirsttimeitreallyhitmethatIwasasenior.Irememberwatchingthe yellowclassjumplastyearandthinkingthatinthesametimeframethenextyear,Iwouldbe livingthesamelife.Thecrazinessoflifebetweenextracurricularactivitiesandschoolwork nevergavemethechancetostopandthinkabouthowfastmytimeasahighschoolstudentis moving.ThepoolisaspacethatIhavemindlesslywalkedbyeverydaythroughoutthecourse ofmyfouryearsinhighschool.Inthemundaneactionsofroutinelife,Ihaverushedpastthe pooltosoftballgamesbytakingtheshortcutpathasaFreshman;walkedtoSpanishclasswith myfriendasaSophomore;leftschoolaftertheaterrehearsalasaJunior;andnowIam continuingtoattempttoarriveatthemansionontimeforAPLitasaSenior.Thenarrativeof thisspacechangedfromaplaceoncampusIalwaysstrollbytoaplacewhereImadeoneof myfondestmemoriesatNotreDame.
SinceIjumpedinthepool,Ihaveturnedeighteen,submittedmyfirstroundofcollege applications,andcompletedmyfirstfullmonthasasenior.Time,likewavingwaters,keeps movingwhetherIwantittoornot.WhenIjumpedintothepool,Ijumpedintohavingmore responsibilities,becominganadult,andgrowingup.Thereisnogoingback.Unfortunately, changeisinevitablewhetherthischangeisgoodorbad.Iknowthisyearisgoingtobeatide ofemotions.SometimesIamgoingtofindmyselfindeepwaters,tryingtostayafloat.Inother scenarios,Iamgoingtofindmyselfincalmwaters,stayingsafeinthetranquilityofmy currentlife.Thistimenextyear,Iamgoingtobeinanewwater,probablymorelikeanocean thanapool.ButwhenIgetscared,Iwillrememberthat“sometimesyoujusthavetojumpin bothfeetfirst”(unknown).
Marianna Pilacik ’24
