The American Dream by Journie (age 15)

No child should be afraid to go to school and on the way, wonder if they will die that day. Lockdown drills should not even exist. We go to learn. Why is our life at risk? Everyone is shocked on the news, but in America, guns are too precious to lose. Do not prioritize power over lives, instead, protect people, children, who do not deserve to die.

Anxiety by Carlos (age 15)

They say take a breath. I try, but every gasp feels like I am getting stabbed in the chest. The words that come out of my mouth sound like gibberish. I just think, is this it, is this the end? Meanwhile, my vision goes completely red. My emotions fly everywhere. But it is okay though, because it does not take long for me to gain back control. That is not what I worry about. All these eyes are on me like I am the only thing that stands out. It would feel better if you put your hand out, but that is not the case. What happens is I get it thrown in my face, like I am supposed to be the big serious man who sits around and gets made fun of and does not take a stand. This feeling in my chest is not one I could easily put to rest. But I know every single day is a test to see if I can deal with people and emotions and give it my best.