Synchronized Chaos First of January 2026: What Makes Us Human

Silhouette of an adult person out at night near some pine trees with a view of the Milky Way
Image c/o Gerard Lipold

First, an announcement: published poet and contributor Tao Yucheng would like to host and judge a poetry contest open to all readers of Synchronized Chaos Magazine.

Synchronized Chaos Poetry Contest

We seek short, powerful, imaginative, and strange poetry. While we welcome all forms of free verse and subject matter, we prefer concise work that makes an impact.

Guidelines: Submit up to five poems per person to taoyucheng921129@proton.me. Each poem should not exceed one page (ideally half a page or less). All styles and themes welcome. Deadline for submissions will be in early March.

Prizes: First Place: $50 Second Place: $10, payable via online transfer. One Honorable Mention. Selected finalists will be published in Synchronized Chaos Magazine.

A second announcement: poet and regular contributor J.J. Campbell has a new book out, to live your dreams.

From the back of the book: J.J. Campbell’s work is an unflinching look into a life spent alone with the bottle and the page readily at hand. It is raw, honest, and uncompromising in every sense of the word. You are keyed into the fact that this is a writer who doesn’t sugarcoat a single line to ever soften the blow. Campbell’s work is perfect in that sense, and in this newest collection, you are getting a writer at the top of his form.

Now, for our first issue of 2026. This issue explores what makes us who we are, physically and psychologically, as individuals and as communities and nations.

Young light skinned man doing the breaststroke or butterfly stroke in a pool on a sunny day
Image c/o Vera Kratochvil

Nicholas Gunther explores what makes him human, where in his body his consciousness might be located. Kassandra Aguilera also speculates about her consciousness, considering what makes her feel alive.

Xudoyberdiyeva Mohiniso explores some Eastern and Western philosophical conceptions of what it means to live a conscious human life. Morley Cacoethes’ haikus also explore where and how we find inner wisdom and knowledge. Nilufar Mo’ydinova outlines themes of free will and the search for truth through experience in Goethe’s Faust.

Brian Michael Barbeito crafts a lyrical winter meditation on a person’s holding onto nature and his identity in an alienating new world. Satimboyeva Risolat echoes the importance of maintaining one’s personal values. Mahbub Alam urges people to draw on the wisdom they possess to make the world more just and healthier. Türkan Ergör considers the unpredictable nature of our lives and the need to choose kindness. Zeki Celic reminds us to make the most of the limited time we each have on earth as Stephen Jarrell Williams depicts characters choosing freedom, peace, and love.

Aliyeva Aziza Utkirovna points to the eyes as a place where humans reveal their inner feelings. Nurbek Norchayev’s evocative piece celebrates the power of poetry to convey emotion and sensibility. Aliyeva Zulaykho highlights the role of breath in vocal expression while reading texts.

Chloe Schoenfeld delves into Walter Gramatte’s painting of German artist, art historian, and social activist Rosa Schapire. She wonders how much of the craft of creating a likeness is about the subject and how much is about the associations the artist draws on to help them imagine and understand the person.

Painting of a gray haired woman seated in a wooden chair with necklaces and a white buttoned coat.
By Walter Gramatté

Shomurodova Dilafro’z Bahodir qizi explores approaches to Uzbek linguistics that focus more on the people creating texts rather than merely on the texts as isolated objects. Fayziyeva Hafiza Alisher qizi also looks at human life and culture’s influence upon languages.

J.K. Durick reflects on the seasons of life where we are observers, contemplating those around us or what has happened. Taylor Dibbert considers his own role in the dissolution of his marriage. Bill Tope’s short story depicts family pulled apart, then back together, then apart again.

Dr. Jernail Singh urges parents to let their young adult children learn and work for their own dreams in life. Also, he reminds us to consider the legacies we leave behind for the rest of the world once we become successful enough to care for ourselves and our families. Tolqinova Marifatoi Shavkatjon qizi outlines research into approaches to social and vocational training for young adults.

Lan Qyqalla recollects his romance with his late wife as Adalat Eroglu versifies about a tender romance and Özcan İşler urges his love to remember him. Nasser Alshaikh Ahmed Arabia’s poetic mind wanders through the jasmine-scented depths and alleyways of love. Ramona Yolanda-Montiel considers an old and warm poncho as a sign of her family’s love. J.J. Campbell writes his way through another lonely, disillusioned holiday, wishing he had love and a close family.

Aleksandra Soltysiak wonders at gentle miracles at Christmas, within nature and within families. Gabriel Bates reflects on the ways he distracts and enjoys himself during holiday celebrations. S. Afrose sings of the joys of the Christmas season. Til Kumari Sharma highlights the beauty and value of the Christian faith at Christmas as Maja Milojkovic expresses gratitude to the archangel Michael. Kalipada Ghosh celebrates life, faith, love, and joy at the holiday season. Sardar Makhmudova’s short story shares how a little girl’s brave adventure lets her discover the meaning of the season, sharing love with others. Dr. Prasanna Kumar Dalai goes into poetic rapture about romantic love, world peace, and personal stillness.

Light skinned 30 something year old man in jeans and a gray sweater seated on a windowsill looking out at trees and the moon at night.
Image c/o Mahmoud Mohammed Hassan

Ahmed Miqdad laments the cold winter endured by Palestinian refugees in a call for global peace and justice. Pat Doyne reflects on the United States’ gun violence epidemic and the lack of progress to tackle it. Also, she speaks to the political chaos in America and its negative effects on consumer prices. Giulia Mozzati Zacco mourns the deaths of children in school shootings through the ancient form of the ghazal. Ziyoda Muradilova reflects on cultural pressures that social media has placed on the craft of journalism, to be fast, interactive, and appealing to readers, and how that poses challenges to the task of delivering truth.

Eva Petropoulou Lianou reminds us that true freedom is a society where people can live safely together, not merely the chance to serve ourselves at others’ expense. Dr. Jernail Singh reminds us that what goes around, comes around, both in terms of the legal system and the religious concept of karma. Duane Vorhees points out that concepts such as justice and poetry and perception should not remain purely abstract but carry practical meanings in the real world.

Abdulrazaq Godwin Omeiza considers how formal education taught him the facts of history, but poetry showed him how to survive it. Ruqaya Mehran, interviewed by poet Eva Petropoulou Lianou, discusses her work as a museum guide, influencer, and historian of ancient Egypt. Dylan Lloyd speaks to the emerging, burgeoning magic of creativity. Taro Hokkyo’s short story illustrates the power of self-belief in overcoming oppression and obstacles. Zaxina Tohirova highlights the lessons we can learn from failure and perseverance. Aziza Xasamova urges us through piercing prose not to give up, whatever happens in our lives.

Ahmed Farooq Baidoon revels in togetherness and merriment at the New Year. Kujtim Hajdari expresses high hopes and dreams for the New Year as Imran Khan moves forward into 2026 with optimism and Jacques Fleury tosses in his New Year wishes for all of our readers. Bruce Roberts contributes a splash of whimsy in his Wacky New Year poem. Valentina Yordanova’s poetry, translated by Yoana Konstantinova, reflects on the joy of Christmas and the self-reflection encouraged in the New Year as Dr. Ratan Bhattacharjee marches forth into 2026 with hope and strength. JoyAnne O’Donnell renews her hopes and dreams as time marches forward. Argentinian poet Graciela Noemi Villaverde takes joy in her December 21st birthday, the summer solstice where she lives, and Fernando Jose Martinez Alderete reflects on nature’s rest and preparation for regrowth during winter.

Synchronized Chaos contributor Jacques Fleury, a young Black man in a black suit and red tie and dark sunglasses, on a golden Christmas ornament with red and green decor, on a Christmas tree.
Image c/o Jacques Fleury

Elza Hansen celebrates the maternal and paternal love at the heart of the Christmas holiday. Abu Rayhan Beruni connects the importance of strong families to a strong nation.

Dildora Khojyozova highlights the cultural renaissance of the nation of Uzbekistan as Diyorbek Elmirzayev looks at Uzbekistan’s increasing government debt as an outgrowth of economic growth and investments in modernization. Lolaxon Sodiqxonova highlights the importance of gender equality and initiatives to empower Uzbek women in economics and education. Dilshoda Nodir qizi Nurboboyeva presents strategies for educating and raising children without gender stereotypes. Priyanka Neogi urges women around the world to move forward with self-respect, creativity, and independence. Ashraf Al-Mismar provides a literary analysis of gender, identity, and migration in his novel Soul Shards.

Communication is integral to intercultural understanding and migration. Shaxriniso Savranboyeva outlines various approaches to translating idioms across languages and cultures. Saminjon Khakimov points to how language instructors can harness the phenomenon of code-switching, reverting to one’s native tongue, in the classroom. Abdurashidova Sabina Eldarovna highlights teen code-switching, from normal language to chat-speak and slang. Eshpo’latova Xilola highlights the role of audiovisual teaching aids in enhancing students’ foreign language acquisition. Ruziyeva Sitora outlines why and how English is still considered a global language as Ubaydullayeva Saodat discusses the role of English in international travel.

Abdullayeva Feruza suggests visual activities that help accentuate young children’s learning. Yusupov Otajon Ulug’bek ogli outlines various creative approaches to teaching and learning foreign languages. Gulsevar Amirqulova encourages teachers to practice and develop their own creativity as part of professional development. Jo’ranazova Dilobar Dilmurod qizi highlights different ways to teach young children their mother tongue. Nasulloyeva Feruzabonu expounds on the value of science and technology education for society in ways that go above and beyond the practical. Dr. Jernail Singh Anand urges society and our educational system to teach wisdom and the humanities rather than simply focusing on speeding up students’ financial success. Bahora Akmalova considers approaches to teaching preschool children social skills in a classroom setting. Rupa Rao interviews writing mentor Balachandran Nair about his work with emerging authors.

Eva Petropoulou Lianou interviews Dr. Reda Abdel Rahim, inspector of Egyptian antiquities at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, about his work with artifacts of his nation’s past. Jeffrey Spahr-Summers’ digitally altered photographs glimpse a more recent past, giving homes and street scenes a hazy, nostalgic feel.

Artistically altered and hazy image of a yellow skyscraper bank building. Blue awning below for a Ben and Jerry's.
Image c/o Jeffrey Spahr Summers

Sayani Mukherjee’s imagistic work explores nature, love, loss, and the concept of home. Natasha Leung draws on oceans and canoes as a metaphor for a couple who are separated all too often. Eleanor Hazel Hill reflects on physical mementos of summer fun. Yusufjonova O’gilxon revels in the chill pleasantries of winter. Soumen Roy looks to a river metaphor to express consistent flow, purpose, humility and resilience. Dr. Byeong-Cheol Kang evokes the resoluteness and strength of an eagle. Kujtim Hajdari highlights ecological themes in his review of Eva Petropoulou’s poetry. Axmadqulova Sapuraxon shares ideas for educating preschool children about the environment. A group of youth in China submits various short poems inspired by natural scenes. Alan Catlin patters out imagistic pieces inspired by various Japanese words for rain as O’rinboyeva Zarina speculates on life on a planet where rain is a rarity. Robert Beckvall reflects on his life’s winding path and how it deposited him on the lush big island of Hawaii. Mesfakus Salahin looks to the longer-lasting natural world for absolution from his complex memories. Riley Winters laments human exploitation of animals and the wilderness.

Mykyta Ryzhykh evokes the inextricable natures of life and death. Alyssa Trivett graphically renders the aftermath of a car accident. Nilufar Yoldoshova outlines similarities and differences between Uzbek and Korean funeral customs. Tea Russo’s work dramatizes the soul-killing effects of grief, loneliness, and shame. Gabriel Kang’s work exposes exploitation disguised as progress and love. Robin Beernaert outlines the psychological impact of a griever’s journey through poetry and prose.

Jessica Vanderwall composes an emotionally complex love letter to herself. Daniela Chourio-Soto reflects on the power of dreams to express and warn us about feelings in our waking lives. Joshua Obirija paints a lower-case portrait of the grief and lostness driving his writing.

Adrina Esparas-Hope crafts a graphic image of visceral love that could be a metaphor for creative pursuits. Brian Barbeito lets go of the need to understand everything before he can experience beauty and mystery. Texas Fontanella’s work revels in color and improvisation, reminiscent of jazz and electronica. Mark Young artistically alters geographical maps of checkerboards and Australian regions. Grant Guy intentionally erases parts of painted and typed texts as an artistic experiment. Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna encourages readers and students to take up a refreshing and creative hobby. Federico Wardal explores the career and casting decisions of artists’ manager Adriano Aragozzini.

More practical fields can be creative as well. Shahlo Rustamova explores the role of discrete mathematics, particularly combinatorics, in understanding biological structures. Farangiz Musurmonova urges Uzbek accounting frameworks to match those of international professional standards. Medical student O’roqova Nargiza outlines the importance of salivary glands in the human body. Normurodova Salina Saitkulovna discusses how the medical field prepares for pandemics. Ahmedova Dilorom Mahmudovna highlights the progress of medical therapies for cancers caused by human papillomavirus.

We hope that this issue will inspire your creativity!

Short story from Sardar Makhmudova


A New Year Adventure

Once upon a time, in a small, snowy village nestled between towering mountains, there was a young girl named Mia who loved New Year’s more than anything. The village was known for its magical New Year celebrations, where the streets were decorated with thousands of sparkling lights, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of fresh pine trees.

One year, Mia heard an old legend about the “Midnight Star,” a mysterious star that only appeared on New Year’s Eve, guiding those who truly believed in the magic of the season to a hidden treasure. The treasure, according to the story, was not gold or jewels but something far more precious — a magical wish that could come true.

Mia decided to find the Midnight Star and discover the treasure for herself. As the clock ticked closer to midnight on New Year’s Eve, she bundled up in her warmest coat, grabbed a small lantern, and set out into the snowy night. The village was alive with music and laughter, but Mia’s heart was set on her adventure.

She walked through the village square, past the frozen fountain, and into the dense forest that bordered the village. The moonlight filtered through the trees, casting long shadows on the ground. Suddenly, Mia saw a flicker of light high above her. Could it be the Midnight Star?

Mia’s eyes sparkled with excitement as she followed the light, climbing up a steep hill. As she reached the top, she saw it — the Midnight Star, shining brightly in the sky. But just below it, there was something even more magical: a giant, glowing tree with silver leaves that shimmered like diamonds. Underneath the tree was a small wooden chest.

Mia approached the chest with awe. She had found it — the treasure! But as she opened it, she was surprised to find not gold or jewels, but a simple note written in elegant handwriting: “The true treasure is the joy and love you bring to others.”

Mia smiled, realizing that the real magic of New Year’s was not about getting something for herself, but about sharing happiness with those around her. She rushed back to the village, where she hugged her family, shared stories, and spread warmth and joy to everyone she met.

That night, as the clock struck midnight, the entire village gathered in the square, their faces glowing with joy and laughter. Mia looked up at the sky, and for a brief moment, she saw the Midnight Star twinkle brightly above the village, as if acknowledging her discovery.

From that year on, Mia carried the magic of the Midnight Star in her heart, always remembering that the greatest treasure of all was the love and kindness shared with others. And every New Year’s Eve, she would take a moment to look up at the sky, knowing that the Midnight Star would always guide her toward the true meaning of the holiday.

And so, the legend of the Midnight Star lived on, not just as a story, but as a reminder of the real magic that filled the world — the magic of love, kindness, and hope.

Essay from Yusupov Otajon Ulugʻbek og‘li

INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO TEACHING NATIVE AND
FOREIGN LANGUAGES AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION

Yusupov Otajon Ulugʻbek og‘li
Mirzo Ulug’bek Branch, National University of
Uzbekistan, Jizzakh, Uzbekistan Faculty of Applied Mathematics,
Software Engineering Program.

Abstract. This article analyzes innovative pedagogical approaches in
teaching native and foreign languages, including gamification, virtual and blended learning, flipped classroom techniques, as well as the practical aspects of developing intercultural communication competence. The effectiveness of these methods is examined through theoretical and practical perspectives.


Keywords: native language, foreign language, gamification, interactive method, flipped classroom, intercultural communication, digital education.


Introduction
Modern language teaching requires learners’ active participation, critical thinking, creativity, and the development of cultural competence. Traditional grammar- focused approaches are increasingly being replaced by interactive and digital
technologies. Therefore, teachers are expected not only to apply modern instructional methods but also to foster intercultural communication skills among learners.

Modern Approaches to Language Teaching
In contemporary language education, learner-centered instruction is prioritized. Traditional grammar-based teaching is being replaced by: Competency-based learning: learners must apply language skills in real situations. Critical thinking development: analyzing and evaluating new information. Contextual learning: using language in authentic, real-life scenarios. New technologies—mobile applications, virtual labs, and online tests—significantly increase teaching efficiency.

Communicative Methods. The Communicative Language Teaching
(CLT) method emphasizes speech and communication. Advantages include: Language practice in real-life contexts;
Interactive group and pair work;
Natural acquisition of language through meaningful use;
Role-plays, debates, and dialogues that develop communicative competence. CLT encourages learner autonomy and active participation.

CLIL Technology. Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL)
integrates subject teaching with a foreign language . For example, history, biology, or mathematics may be taught in English. Benefits:
Simultaneous acquisition of subject content and language skills;
Deep understanding of academic material;
Natural language learning within meaningful contexts.
CLIL programs are expanding across schools in Uzbekistan.

Blended Learning and the Flipped Classroom. Blended learning
combines offline and online formats. Advantages: Opportunities for independent study; Development of speaking skills through video lessons, tests, and virtual communication; Personalization of instruction based on learners’ needs. The flipped classroom model allows students to learn content at home and practice
in class through problem-solving and hands-on activities.

Gamification and Interactive Platforms. Gamification makes the
learning process more engaging through game-like elements . Platforms such as Duolingo, Quizlet, and Kahoot: Teach vocabulary and grammar; Provide visual progress tracking; Increase motivation through competitions and rewards.

Interactive and Psycholinguistic Methods. Interactive strategies—group projects, clusters, and role-plays—promote learner engagement. Psycholinguistic approaches emphasize memory, attention, motivation, and perception. Using short-term and long-term memory techniques enhances vocabulary retention.

Intercultural Communication Competence. Language and culture are
interconnected.
Developing intercultural competence includes:
Understanding cultural similarities and differences;
Strengthening empathy and tolerance;
Overcoming stereotypes;
Using language appropriately in international contexts. Virtual exchanges and cultural exchange programs deepen intercultural experience.

STEAM, PBL, and Cross-Disciplinary Integration STEAM and
Project-Based Learning (PBL) promote creative and research-oriented language learning . Examples include: Real-life tasks (restaurant role-play, job interviews, forums);
Multimedia and virtual project-based assignments that enhance intercultural understanding.

Teaching Language in Personal and Social Contexts. Learners’
language acquisition is influenced by personal interests, goals, and social environment Personal motivation: selecting materials aligned with learners’ needs improves efficiency. Social context: tasks simulate real roles (forums, interviews, events). Differentiated instruction: methods tailored to learners’ abilities. Teaching within a social context enhances communicative and intercultural competence.

Technology and Virtual Learning
Digital technologies have become essential tools in language teaching. Virtual labs: reinforce grammar, vocabulary, and speech through interactive tasks. Online simulations: practice real-life scenarios (restaurants, hotels, workplaces). AI and chatbots: support independent learning and error correction. These approaches develop independence, creativity, and practical skills.


Conclusion

Innovative pedagogical approaches—CLT, CLIL, Blended Learning, Flipped Classroom, gamification, interactive and psycholinguistic methods, and intercultural competence—play a crucial role in teaching native and foreign languages. These methods help students: Apply language in real-life situations; Enhance intercultural and global communication skills; Strengthen critical thinking, creativity, and social competencies. Alongside this, interdisciplinary
integration and project-based learning (STEAM, PBL) transform learners into independent, creative, and active participants. Modern approaches significantly improve the quality and effectiveness of language education.


References

  1. Richards, J. & Rodgers, T. Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching.
    Cambridge, 2017.
  2. Marsh, D. CLIL: Theory and Practice. Oxford, 2012.
  3. Safarova, D. Modern Methods in Language Teaching. Tashkent, 2021.
  4. Harmer, J. The Practice of English Language Teaching. London, 2015.
  5. Dornyei, Z. Motivation in Language Learning. New York, 2018.
  6. Byram, M. Teaching and Assessing Intercultural Communicative Competence. London, 2020.

Essay from Saminjon Khakimov

Young Central Asian man with short dark hair, brown eyes, a dark suit, white collared shirt, and blue tie.

CODE-SWITCHING AMONG UZBEK ENGLISH LEARNERS: REASONS AND FUNCTIONS


Saminjon Khakimov University of Business and Science Non-Governmental Educational Institution Philology and Language Teaching (English) K.XF 23-04 Phone number: +998 333696936 +998 943623669 Email: saminjon.khakimov@gmail.com ORCID: 0009-0006-1444-7331

Annotation: This article examines the phenomenon of code-switching among Uzbek learners of English and analyzes the major reasons and communicative functions behind it. Based on classroom observations and learner interviews, the study reveals that code-switching is not simply a sign of linguistic weakness but a strategic tool used for clarification, social bonding, topic shift, and emotional expression. The research emphasizes that code-switching plays an important pedagogical role in foreign-language learning environments, especially in multilingual societies like Uzbekistan.


Keywords: code-switching, bilingualism, Uzbek learners, English learning, sociolinguistics, communication strategies, multilingual education


In multilingual communities, switching between two or more languages during communication is a common linguistic practice. This phenomenon, known as code-switching, has been widely studied in sociolinguistics. For Uzbek learners of English, code-switching frequently appears in classrooms, social media communication, and informal conversations. Although it is often perceived as a barrier to language fluency, many researchers argue that it serves important communicative, psychological, and pedagogical functions. This article explores why Uzbek English learners code-switch and what functions it performs in their communication.


Code-switching typically occurs when speakers alternate between languages depending on context, topic, or interlocutor. Scholars classify it into several types:


 Inter-sentential switching — language shift between sentences.
 Intra-sentential switching — switching within one sentence.
 Tag-switching — insertion of discourse markers such as “ha”, “you know”, “aslida”.


Previous studies (Gumperz, Myers-Scotton, Poplack) show that code-switching is often systematic and purposeful, rather than random.


The study uses:
1. Classroom observation at secondary and vocational institutions in Fergana region.
2. Semi-structured interviews with 20 English learners aged 15–20.
3. Analysis of chat-based communication (with participants’ consent).
Qualitative analysis was applied to identify repeated patterns and motivations behind switching.


1. Reasons for Code-Switching
a. Lexical Gaps
Learners often lack vocabulary for certain concepts and naturally insert Uzbek words. Example: “Teacher, I don’t know this tushunchani in English.”
b. Ease of Expression
Some ideas feel more natural in L1 due to cultural closeness.
c. Learning Strategy
Learners intentionally mix languages to confirm understanding: “Past Simple o‘tgan zamon bo‘ladi, to‘g‘rimi?”
d. Classroom Norms
Teachers themselves switch languages to save time during explanation, influencing learners’ behavior.
e. Emotional Expression
Feelings such as surprise, humor, or frustration are often expressed in Uzbek even during English conversation.


f. Social Bonding
Switching helps maintain group identity and solidarity, especially among classmates and friends.
a. Clarification Function
Students switch to Uzbek to clarify grammar, meaning, or instructions.
b. Emphasis and Focus
Certain Uzbek words are used to highlight important information.
c. Identity Marking
Using Uzbek markers like “ha”, “xo‘p”, “baribir” creates a shared linguistic identity.
d. Topic Shift
Learners switch languages when changing from academic talk to everyday conversation.


e. Pedagogical Function
Code-switching helps teachers scaffold learning and reduce confusion during complex topics.
f. Affective Function
Use of mother tongue reduces anxiety and increases speaker confidence.

The findings indicate that code-switching among Uzbek English learners is a strategic communicative practice, not a sign of poor proficiency. Learners rely on both languages to negotiate meaning, express identity, and maintain social relations. In Uzbek classrooms, where English is learned as a foreign language, total exclusion of L1 may create unnecessary psychological pressure. Instead, structured and purposeful use of the mother tongue can support language acquisition.


Code-switching among Uzbek English learners serves multiple linguistic and social functions. Rather than discouraging it completely, educators should understand its pedagogical value and guide students toward more intentional and balanced usage. Future research may explore differences in code-switching patterns across age groups or proficiency levels.


REFERENCES
1. Gumperz, J. (1982). Discourse Strategies. Cambridge University Press.
2. Myers-Scotton, C. (1993). Social Motivations for Codeswitching. Oxford University Press.
3. Poplack, S. (1980). “Sometimes I’ll Start a Sentence in Spanish Y TERMINO EN ESPAÑOL.” Linguistics, 18(7–8), 581–618.
4. Auer, P. (1998). Code-Switching in Conversation. Routledge.
5. Matras, Y. (2009). Language Contact. Cambridge University Press.
6. Iskandarova, S. (2020). “Code-Switching Practices in Uzbek EFL Classrooms.” Uzbek Journal of Education Studies, 4(2), 45–51.

Saminjon Khakimov was born in Margilan, Fergana Region, Uzbekistan. He is a student of Philology and Language Teaching (English) at Namangan University of Business and Science. He works as a Head English Teacher and IELTS Instructor at a private educational center.

Poetry from Alyssa Trivett

Post Accident

Bloodstained hair peels back

glass shards at this velocity.

Wind of a

stranger’s comic bubbles

float towards me

as the boxcar finally stops.

I am jet lagged, metal in my mouth,

vertigo knocks on

the noggin and

blue, purple, and pink bruises

make a home for themself

on my charred skin.

Glass paper cuts on hands

sting me as I’m trapped in.

I am still in awe of the number

of patrons that stopped in

for a well being check

as they tow the remnants

under the overpass

and fish me out of the

driver’s seat

as I bob up for air

again.

Poetry from Ahmed Miqdad

Image with a variety of national flags as a border. Black text on a white background reads "Ahmed Miqdad Gaza Palestine Ambassador" and then there's a photo of Ahmed, a middle aged bald man with brown eyes and a plaid tee shirt.

Audacious Winter

Winter has just come back

Knocks the doors again

The walls have fallen 

And the doors are opened

No doorsteps or locks

Just a piece of cloth

Covers my humanity.

You’re so audacious guest

Enters without permission

Violates all the rules

And even the soft young leaves 

Turned to be brown and old.

Your clouds took the light of the day

And added the grey view in the surrounding.

To exacerbate my sadness and depression

They also took the heat of the sun

To make my children burn from the coldness inside a helpless tent.

Your water ran like a huge snake 

Sneaking to our shaky tent 

submerged my blankets and covers my heels

Where humanity fell under my feet.

Poetry from Priyanka Neogi

Young Indian (South Asian) woman with light skin, lipstick, brown eyes, long earrings, a red dress and crown and sash.

Women’s Journey  

You have seen the woman 

Sushmita from Jhasi Rani, 

But why, without the power of disorientation, 

Get over the fear! Have you seen 

Nazrul’s poem! 

There are broken locks, women’s talk.

 understand yourself, 

Move forward with freedom, keep your direction. 

Let men and women 

Complement each other, flow. 

You are good, you guide the sweet path, 

You are the family matter to keep. 

You are the light of love, blessed with love, 

Ignore the storm and rain, 

All is well in your patience, 

No matter how hard it is to build your life, 

The essence of showing uprooted. 

Create yourself with value & creativity.

23.12.2025

Short biography: Amb. Dr. Priyanka Neogi from Coochbehar. She is an administrative Controller of United Nations PAF, librarian, CEO of Lio Messi International Property & Land Consultancy, international literacy worker, sports & peace promoter, dancer, singer, reciter, live telecaster, writer, editor, researcher, literary journalist, host, beauty queen, international coordinator of the Vijay Mission of Community Welfare Foundation of India.