Essay from Suyunova Fotima Oybekovna

Safeguarding the Planet: Environmental Protection as a Normative Obligation of Global Society

Suyunova Fotima Oybekovna

Student of Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages                                        

English faculty, XTA, 2407 group

Abstract: In this study, I examine environmental protection as a normative moral obligation of global society within the context of accelerating ecological degradation. Moving beyond purely economic and regulatory interpretations, I argue that environmental preservation constitutes an ethical imperative grounded in justice, intergenerational equity, and human rights. Through qualitative normative analysis and interdisciplinary reflection on environmental ethics, sustainability theory, and global governance frameworks, I demonstrate that ecological collapse represents not merely a scientific crisis but a profound moral failure. My findings suggest that safeguarding the planet must be institutionalized as a universal ethical commitment embedded within political institutions, economic systems, and social values.

Keywords: environmental ethics, sustainability, global responsibility, moral obligation, intergenerational justice, ecological crisis

1. Introduction

In the contemporary era, I observe that environmental degradation has evolved into a multidimensional crisis affecting ecological systems, economic stability, and social cohesion. Climate change intensifies extreme weather events, biodiversity loss destabilizes ecosystems, and pollution undermines public health worldwide. While environmental protection is frequently framed as a matter of policy regulation or technological innovation, I contend that such perspectives underestimate its normative dimension. In my view, the Anthropocene — an epoch characterized by significant human impact on planetary systems — compels humanity to reassess its ethical responsibilities toward nature. The unprecedented scale of human-induced environmental transformation has altered the moral landscape of global society. Because our collective actions now shape atmospheric chemistry, ocean composition, and terrestrial ecosystems, I argue that environmental protection must be regarded as a binding moral duty rather than a discretionary political agenda. This research therefore seeks to answer the following question: Why should safeguarding the planet be conceptualized as a normative obligation of global society?

2. Literature Review

In reviewing existing scholarship, I find that environmental ethics provides the foundational framework for understanding moral responsibility toward nature. Scholars such as Aldo Leopold (1949) introduced the concept of the “land ethic,” arguing that humans are members rather than masters of the ecological community. This perspective redefined moral consideration to include ecosystems and non-human life. Contemporary philosophers such as Hans Jonas (1984) further developed the idea of responsibility in the technological age, asserting that humanity’s expanded power requires an expanded ethical framework. Jonas emphasized the “principle of responsibility,” according to which technological societies must act cautiously to preserve the conditions necessary for future life. Additionally, sustainability discourse, particularly as articulated in the Brundtland Report (1987), introduced the concept of intergenerational equity, defining sustainable development as meeting present needs without compromising future generations. This framework significantly strengthened the normative dimension of environmental policy. More recent studies in climate justice literature argue that environmental degradation disproportionately affects marginalized populations and developing nations. Scholars highlight the ethical necessity of distributive justice in climate mitigation and adaptation policies. Despite extensive research on environmental governance and sustainability, I observe that many policy-oriented approaches treat environmental protection as pragmatic necessity rather than explicit moral obligation. My study seeks to contribute to the literature by synthesizing environmental ethics and global governance discourse to demonstrate that environmental protection is normatively binding.

3. Methods

In conducting this study, I adopted a qualitative normative methodology rooted in conceptual analysis and interdisciplinary integration rather than empirical experimentation. I began by systematically clarifying key concepts, including “normative obligation,” which I define as a morally binding duty derived from universalizable ethical principles, and “environmental stewardship,” understood as responsible, precautionary, and sustainable interaction with ecological systems. I then applied foundational ethical principles—harm prevention, distributive justice, intergenerational equity, and human rights-based reasoning—to contemporary environmental phenomena such as climate change, biodiversity decline, and transboundary pollution. By examining whether environmental protection satisfies established criteria for moral obligation within philosophical discourse, I constructed a comprehensive ethical argument demonstrating that ecological preservation transcends voluntary activism and enters the domain of moral necessity. This approach allowed me to integrate philosophical reasoning with socio-political analysis, thereby producing a coherent normative framework that positions environmental protection as an ethical imperative for global society.

4. Results

My analysis reveals that environmental protection fulfills multiple interrelated conditions required for classification as a normative obligation. First, the principle of harm prevention establishes a compelling moral mandate, as environmental degradation generates foreseeable and preventable suffering in the form of intensified natural disasters, displacement, food insecurity, water shortages, and public health crises. Because such harms are largely anthropogenic, failing to mitigate them constitutes ethical negligence rather than unfortunate inevitability. Second, intergenerational justice introduces a temporal dimension of responsibility, compelling present societies to consider the rights and life prospects of future generations who lack representation in current political processes yet will bear the long-term consequences of ecological mismanagement. Third, environmental degradation undermines fundamental human rights, including the rights to life, health, security, and adequate living conditions, thereby transforming ecological preservation into a matter of safeguarding human dignity. Finally, the transboundary nature of environmental systems demonstrates that ecological harm is inherently global, necessitating collective accountability among nations, institutions, corporations, and individuals. Taken together, these findings substantiate the claim that safeguarding the planet is not discretionary but normatively binding within any coherent ethical framework.

5. Discussion and Implications

Reflecting upon these findings, I maintain that the ecological crisis exposes structural deficiencies within prevailing economic and political paradigms that prioritize short-term growth and profit maximization over long-term sustainability. The normalization of environmental externalities—whereby ecological costs are displaced onto vulnerable communities or future generations—reveals a profound moral imbalance embedded within global capitalism. I argue that technological innovation and regulatory reforms, while indispensable, remain insufficient without a corresponding ethical transformation that redefines humanity’s relationship with nature. Educational systems must cultivate ecological literacy and moral awareness; international institutions must strengthen cooperative governance mechanisms; corporations must internalize environmental accountability within strategic decision-making; and individuals must adopt sustainable consumption patterns. In my view, redefining progress in terms of ecological resilience, social justice, and long-term sustainability rather than mere economic accumulation represents a necessary paradigm shift. Ultimately, environmental stewardship reflects civilizational maturity, as it demonstrates humanity’s capacity for foresight, solidarity, and ethical responsibility in the face of existential risk.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, I assert that environmental protection constitutes a normative obligation of global society. The ecological crisis is fundamentally a moral challenge requiring ethical evolution alongside scientific and technological innovation. Through the principles of harm prevention, intergenerational justice, human rights protection, and global solidarity, I demonstrate that safeguarding the planet is an ethical necessity. The future of humanity depends not only on our technological capabilities but on our moral commitments. Recognizing environmental protection as a binding normative responsibility is essential for ensuring sustainable and equitable global survival.

Essay from Turdimuradova Zulfera Sattor qizi 

INVESTIGATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BLENDED LEARNING IN TEACHING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Turdimuradova Zulfera Sattor qizi 

UzSWLU, Student

ANNOTATION 

This study investigates the effectiveness of blended learning in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Blended learning refers to the integration of traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning activities, creating a flexible and supportive learning environment. The purpose of this research is to examine how this approach influences students’ language proficiency, motivation, and engagement in the learning process. The study focuses on the development of the four essential language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. It also examines the role of digital technologies in promoting learner autonomy, participation, and independent learning. Blended learning provides students with more opportunities to access learning materials and practice English both inside and outside the classroom. The findings are expected to show that blended learning improves students’ academic performance and motivation. This research may contribute to the improvement of modern teaching methods and support the effective use of blended learning in EFL education.

Keywords: Blended learning, English as a Foreign Language (EFL), teaching methods, language skills, online learning, face-to-face instruction, student motivation, learner engagement, educational technology.

Introduction

In the modern educational environment, the teaching of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) has undergone significant changes due to the rapid development of information and communication technologies. English plays a crucial role in global communication, academic success, and professional development. Therefore, educators are expected to apply effective and innovative teaching methods that improve students’ language skills and enhance their learning experience. Traditional teaching methods, which mainly focus on face-to-face instruction, may not fully address the needs of contemporary learners who require flexibility, interaction, and access to digital learning resources. 

Blended learning has emerged as an effective approach that combines classroom instruction with online learning activities. This method allows students to access educational materials, participate in online tasks, and practice language skills beyond the classroom. It promotes learner autonomy, increases motivation, and creates a more student-centered learning environment. In addition, blended learning provides opportunities for personalized learning and continuous feedback.  

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of blended learning in teaching English as a Foreign Language. This research examines how blended learning influences students’ language development, engagement, and academic performance. The findings of this study may help improve teaching practices and support the integration of blended learning in EFL education.

Main body

1.Theoretical Background of Blended Learning

Blended learning is defined as an instructional approach that integrates traditional face-to-face classroom teaching with online learning activities. It is based on the idea that combining different learning environments can enhance the overall educational experience. In the context of English as a Foreign Language (EFL), blended learning provides students with opportunities to engage in both direct interaction with teachers and independent study through digital platforms.

This approach is grounded in student-centered learning theory, which emphasizes active participation, collaboration, and learner autonomy. By integrating online resources such as videos, interactive exercises, and discussion forums, blended learning extends the learning process beyond the physical classroom. As a result, students can access materials repeatedly and learn at their own pace, which supports deeper understanding and long-term retention of language skills.

2. Impact of Blended Learning on Language Skill Development

Blended learning has a significant impact on the development of the four primary language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. In terms of speaking, blended learning encourages both in-class communication and online interaction. Students may participate in classroom discussions while also completing virtual speaking tasks or recorded presentations. This dual practice increases confidence and fluency. Listening skills benefit from access to multimedia materials, including audio recordings and video lectures. Online resources allow students to replay content multiple times, improving comprehension and pronunciation awareness. Reading skills are strengthened through exposure to digital texts, articles, and interactive reading tasks. Online environments often provide vocabulary support and comprehension exercises that enhance understanding. Writing skills are developed through online assignments, forums, and collaborative tasks. Digital platforms enable teachers to provide immediate feedback, which helps students recognize and correct their mistakes effectively. Overall, blended learning creates more frequent and varied opportunities for practicing language skills compared to traditional instruction alone.

3. Advantages of Blended Learning in EFL Education

One of the major advantages of blended learning is flexibility. Students can access materials at convenient times, which allows them to manage their learning process more independently. This flexibility supports differentiated instruction and addresses individual learning needs. Another important benefit is increased motivation and engagement. The use of technology, multimedia tools, and interactive activities makes lessons more dynamic and appealing. Modern learners are generally familiar with digital environments, and incorporating technology into language learning can increase their interest and participation. Blended learning also promotes learner autonomy. Students take greater responsibility for completing tasks, organizing their time, and monitoring their progress. This independence is essential for successful foreign language acquisition.   Furthermore, blended learning enhances communication between teachers and students. Online platforms enable continuous feedback, additional explanations, and personalized support, contributing to improved academic performance.

4. Challenges and Considerations

Despite its advantages, blended learning presents certain challenges. Access to reliable internet and technological devices remains a significant issue in some educational contexts. Without proper infrastructure, the effectiveness of blended learning may be limited. Additionally, both teachers and students may require training to use digital tools effectively. Lack of digital competence can reduce the potential benefits of this approach. Teachers must carefully design lessons to ensure a balanced integration of online and face-to-face components. Time management is another important consideration. Since blended learning involves independent study, students must demonstrate responsibility and self-discipline. Without proper guidance, some learners may struggle to complete online tasks consistently. Time management is another important consideration. Since blended learning involves independent study, students must demonstrate responsibility and self-discipline. Without proper guidance, some learners may struggle to complete online tasks consistently. Therefore, successful implementation of blended learning requires institutional support, teacher preparation, and structured planning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, blended learning has proven to be an effective and innovative approach in teaching English as a Foreign Language. By combining traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning activities, this method creates a flexible and student-centered learning environment. It provides learners with more opportunities to practice and develop their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills through both classroom interaction and digital resources.The study shows that blended learning increases student motivation, engagement, and autonomy. Students become more active participants in the learning process and take greater responsibility for their own progress. In addition, the use of digital tools allows teachers to provide continuous feedback and support, which contributes to improved academic performance. However, the successful implementation of blended learning requires proper technological infrastructure, teacher training, and student readiness. Despite these challenges, blended learning offers significant advantages and has the potential to improve the quality of English language teaching. Therefore, it can be considered an effective and valuable method in modern EFL education.

Keywords: Blended learning, English as a Foreign Language (EFL), teaching methods, language skills, online learning, face-to-face instruction, student motivation, learner engagement, educational technology.

References:

Garrison, D. R., & Vaughan, N. D. (2008). Blended learning in higher education: Framework, principles, and guidelines. Jossey-Bass.

Bonk, C. J., & Graham, C. R. (2006). The handbook of blended learning: Global perspectives, local designs. Pfeiffer.

Harmer, J. (2007). How to teach English (3rd ed.). Pearson Longman.

Ellis, R. (2015). Second language learning and language teaching (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.

Chapelle, C. A. (2003). English language learning and technology: Lectures on applied linguistics in the age of information and communication technology. John Benjamins.

Salmon, G. (2013). E-moderating: The key to online teaching and learning (3rd ed.). Routledge.

Dziuban, C., Moskal, P., & Hartman, J. (2018). Blended learning: Research perspectives, volume 2. Routledge.

Alqahtani, A. (2020). The effectiveness of blended learning in English language teaching: A meta-analysis. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 23(2), 128–143.

Bicen, H., & Kocakoyun, S. (2021). Blended learning in English as a foreign language (EFL): Students’ perceptions and outcomes. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 34(4), 376–399.

Darab, B., & Montazeri, M. (2022). The role of blended learning in improving language skills: Evidence from higher education. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning, 17(3), 45–55.

Zulfera Turdimurodova was born March 28, 2008, in Uzbekistan. She is currently a first-year student majoring in English Philology at Uzbekistan State World Languages University. As a university student, Zulfera demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility, academic discipline, and dedication to her field of study. She is deeply committed to developing her linguistic competence, analytical thinking, and professional skills. Through consistent effort and active learning, she strives to strengthen both her theoretical knowledge and practical abilities in English language and philology. Zulfera values continuous self-improvement, intellectual growth, and ethical professionalism. Her long-term goal is to become a highly qualified specialist in her field and to contribute meaningfully to society through education, knowledge, and professional excellence.

Essay from Turğunboyeva Dilafruzxon

Preschool Education — the Foundation of the Future

Preschool education is not only about preparing a child for school, but also about laying the foundation for the formation of a person’s character during the most important stage of life. It is precisely at this stage that a child’s thinking, speech, emotions, and social relationships begin to develop.

A child first fully encounters society in preschool. There, they learn to wait their turn, share, listen, and express their own thoughts. These skills later become essential in school, in society, and throughout life.

The educational process in preschool institutions is not limited to lessons alone. Learning through play, drawing, singing, and physical activities all contribute to a child’s holistic development. Play is the most natural form of learning for a child, as it is through play that they understand the world.

Today, new approaches are being introduced in preschool education. Child-centered teaching methods that consider children’s interests and needs are being applied. Each child is recognized as an individual, and special attention is given to developing their abilities and potential.

The role of the educator is extremely important. An educator should not only be a source of knowledge but also someone who understands the child’s inner world, supports them, and gives them confidence. Education given with love provides a child with strength that lasts a lifetime.

In conclusion, preschool education is the foundation of future society. The way children are educated in preschool today will shape the people who live in society tomorrow. Therefore, paying attention to preschool education is the greatest investment in the future.

Turğunboyeva Dilafruzxon, a third-year student of Preschool Education Psychology and Pedagogy at the Faculty of Pedagogy, Namangan State Pedagogical Institute.

Essay from Turg’unova O’g’iloy Ravshanbek qizi

INTEGRATING THE METHODOLOGY OF TEACHING BIOLOGY WITH OTHER SUBJECTS

Kokand State University, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Economics

Teacher: Isabayeva Mashhuraxon Muxiddinovna

Third-year Biology student: Turgʻunova Oʻgʻiloy Ravshanbek qizi

ANNOTATION: This article analyzes the theoretical and practical foundations of integrating the methodology of teaching biology with other subjects. It highlights the role of an interdisciplinary approach in improving educational effectiveness and developing students’ systematic thinking. The possibilities of organically connecting biology with chemistry, native language, geography, computer science, and mathematics are considered through examples. Methods of organizing integrated lessons and the advantages of pedagogical technologies are discussed. Furthermore, this approach is justified as a means of shaping students’ scientific worldview and developing practical skills. The article also provides recommendations for implementing interdisciplinary integration in modern education.

KEYWORDS: integration, method, interdisciplinary integration, teaching methodology, scientific thinking, pedagogical effectiveness, synchronous, asynchronous, practical skills, critical thinking

The methodology of teaching biology is a branch of science related to the processes, principles, and laws underlying the biology educational process. Proper organization of learning processes and understanding these principles allow teachers to structure and manage educational activities in accordance with modern education systems.

The goal of the methodology of teaching biology is to organize the content, teaching forms, methods, and tools of biology lessons in a coherent and effective way. Its main task is to provide students with deep knowledge of biology, develop their overall growth and improvement, and create teaching content, tools, forms, and methods that support this development. The teacher’s personality plays a crucial role because the more passion, knowledge, skills, and experience a future educator has for their subject, the more they can stimulate students’ interest in it. A teacher effectively imparts profound knowledge and practical skills, helps students understand the essence of the subject, and consequently fosters respect and engagement in students during lessons.

The connection of biology teaching methodology with other subjects serves as an important pedagogical tool. In this context, students’ knowledge and skills acquired in other subjects are linked to biology—a process called integration (from Latin integratio—“to combine,” “to complete,” “to unify”), which involves connecting separate parts, elements, or subjects into a single system. In practice, this means linking biology with chemistry, geography, native language, and mathematics, and applying this integrated knowledge during lessons to provide students with effective and systematic learning experiences. This pedagogical method enhances the teacher’s professional qualities and deepens their mastery of subject knowledge.

For example, a young teacher may encounter some difficulties in the learning process, such as organizing lessons effectively and systematically according to State Educational Standards. In this case, students’ prior knowledge and skills from other subjects can be integrated into biology lessons. Initially, the teacher should:

Study the students to understand their interests and preferred subjects. Knowing students’ knowledge and skills in other subjects is crucial for effectively engaging them in biology lessons.

For instance, in an 8th-grade biology lesson:

Topic: Digestive System

The teacher can explain the topic using students’ knowledge of their native language to ensure proper understanding.

This approach not only strengthens interdisciplinary connections but also develops students’ comprehensive understanding, critical thinking, and ability to apply knowledge across different domains.

Turgʻunova Oʻgʻiloy Ravshanbek qizi was born on September 26, 2004, in Rapqon village, Beshariq district, Fergana region.

She is currently a third-year student majoring in Biology at Kokand State University (enrolled in 2023).

Essay from Rahmatullayeva Elmira Rahimjon qizi

PHILOSOPHY OF VALUES (AXIOLOGY), THEIR ROLE IN SOCIAL LIFE AND DEVELOPMENT

Navoi State University

Faculty of Natural Sciences and 

Medicine First-Year Student

Rahmatullayeva Elmira

Rahimjon qizi

Research Supervisor:     

 Ashurov Shodmon Sharofovich 

ABSTRACT:

This article analyzes the philosophy of values — axiology — its subject matter, stages of formation, main categories, and its significance in human life. The social, spiritual, moral, and aesthetic manifestations of values, their role in the development of society, and the transformation of value systems in the context of modern globalization are scientifically examined. Furthermore, the philosophical essence of the harmony between national and universal values is revealed.

Keywords: value, axiology, spirituality, morality, aesthetic values, national values, universal values, evaluation, value system, concept of heritage. It occupies an important place in human life. It is one of the main branch of philosophy that studies moral, aesthetic, and social criteria. Throughout the development of humanity, values have been an integral part of social life. Every era lives based on its own spiritual and cultural values. Values are considered an important factor that determines a person’s worldview and behavior, and they have been formed during the development of society and transmitted from generation to generation. During each stage of social development, a specific system of values is formed, and social relations emerge on this basis.

MAIN PART

In all philosophical teachings of the past, special attention was paid to the essence of values and their role in society, emphasizing their importance in spiritual development. The active relationship of human beings to objective reality, as well as the development of the material and spiritual environment, leads to the formation of new values based on continuity or renewal. As a result, opportunities for social, spiritual, and political development expand.

Any phenomenon that occurs in the process of social development rises to the level of a value not only because it had positive significance in the past, but also because it creates new opportunities for the future.

Values are considered an important factor in understanding and transforming the world. The essence of each value is determined by its ability to help comprehend society and the human spiritual world, as well as its influence on spiritual development. The diversity and enrichment of values reflect the expansion of human cognitive abilities.

When evaluating values, it is important to take into account the historical conditions in which they emerged. Each value is a product of its time, and in assessing it, the social, political, and cultural opportunities of that period should be considered.

In general, values are material and spiritual assets that are formed and developed in the course of historical progress and exert a positive influence on social life. They become embedded in people’s consciousness and acquire social significance.

Values have both objective and subjective aspects. Objective values are formed on the basis of the material living standards and opportunities of society, while their subjective aspect is determined by people’s attitudes and evaluations of them. In the process of adhering to and evaluating values, both personal and universal interests play an important role.

Types of Values

According to their essence, values are divided into material and spiritual values.

Material values include architectural monuments created by humans, works of art, and the beauties of nature.

Spiritual values include concepts such as morality, etiquette, knowledge, science, faith, skills, and belief. These two types are closely interconnected and complement one another.

1. Values Related to the Material Environment

These include the beauty of nature, nature reserves, and the necessary conditions for human life.

2. Values Manifested in Traditions, Customs, and Rituals

These values are reflected in a person’s behavior, morality, and etiquette. Various customs and rituals find expression in everyday life.

3. Values Related to Knowledge and Practical Activity

Human skills, abilities, experience, and talent are also considered values. For example, the creation of a great artwork by an artist depends on their experience and capability.

4. Values Related to Age, Profession, and Gender

At different stages of human life, values also change. For instance, national clothing or profession-specific traditions express certain social values.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the philosophy of values occupies an important place in human and social life. Values shape human spirituality and elevate a person’s attitude toward the surrounding environment. Through values, mutual respect, justice, and solidarity are established in society.

Therefore, preserving values, instilling them in the consciousness of the younger generation, and applying them in practical life are important tasks. Indeed, the formation of values plays a fundamental role in human development.

References

1 Aksiologiya (Qadriyatlar falsafasi) asoslari. (2016). Fan va texnologiya. (50–65-betlar).

2 Aristotel. (2016). Nikomax etikasi. G‘afur G‘ulom nomidagi nashriyot.

3 Falsafa qomusiy lug‘ati. (2004). Sharq.

4 Forobiy, A. N. (2016). Fozil odamlar shahri. Yangi asr avlodi.

5 Karimov, I. A. (2008). Yuksak ma’naviyat – yengilmas kuch. Ma’naviyat.

6 Qodirov, A. (Ed.). (2018). Falsafa: Oliy o‘quv yurtlari uchun darslik (1-bob: Aksiologiya predmeti). O‘zbekiston.

7 To‘rayev, B., & Haydarov, B. (2020). Falsafa fanidan ma’ruzalar matni. Toshkent.

Poetry from Duane Vorhees

A GUITARIST SWEETENS THE NIGHT

Our dark oceans are shivering

ancientest tempesttost navies.

My starving fingers bite your strings.

My hammer taps into your bark

to find immortalized molasses,

like a corkscrew into waiting cork.

These gardens glow like ivory

amidst the shades of black Hades

and I curl, curl into your curves.

The sky is a vase of daisies.

THIS POEM BY DUANE

Fifty,000,000 likes!

For your photos of snacks,

for your pictures of cats.

When Virgil

and Dante

met Homer in Hell,

Dante elevated

Himself

to their level.

GASANDICEMAN

One way went to the mountain

and one way to the coast.

One way the way of Pan

and one the way of Thoth.

This wayfarer, uncertain,

decided to take them both.

I inhabit

Opposites.

I am a rotund materialist

and within, profoundly, his ghost.

I am the ground.

I am the mist.

ALL HISTORY IS PROPHECY

Blind men at dusk predict

the next day will bring light,

No past dies completely.

Its bone cements my wall,

and its ash congregates

in these porcelain dolls.

All prophecy

is history —

bounty or blight.

All of our tomorrows

are mysteries today.

Yes, “the future looks bright” —

there’s too much glare to see

the soonest cloud bringing

the silver and the rain.

I’m in Hiroshima, just waiting for the  plane.

PASSION FOR LIFE

(after Wang Guozhen)

I care not if my destination is reached

since I have courage to walk ahead

regardless of the winds and rains.

I care not if my love is reaped.

Since roses are my one passion

my address is brave and sincere.

I care not if hostile winds and rains freeze me

since my horizon ahead is set.

The world’s shadow is behind me.

I care not if the road’s flat or straight.

Since I possess a passion for life

I can never be caught offguard.

Poetry from Tea Russo

Self portrait from my spiderwebs

drenched in milky moonlight, i climb
up to my home in the tangled branches, among my webs.
rain plummets onto soft blades of grass,
from the spiderwebs i see myself in puddles of water;
the ever-changing reflection i know i must confront.
i am stuck between the comforting earth and the freeing sky,
a malfunction where the body meets the mind.
i have a hunger that eats at me;
the eternal hunger to have a body made of moonlight;
constellations as my bones,
planets for eyes,
to be everything
and nothing
all at once.