Synchronized Chaos’ First May Issue: Fluidity

Announcing that contributor Michael Steffen has a new book out, I Saw My Life.

About I Saw My Life: From the saying “I saw my life flash before my eyes”, the book’s title announces thresholds, things and moments of arrest and luminosity, resplendent, but also shocking as a near-death experience might be, and fleeting as any flash may be. The stars in their constellations at night glimpsed up through leaves of a tree, the drama of a scull tipped in a powerful mid-river current, a woven shopping handbag, such objects in their places and handling evoke the weights and sensations revisiting the body in reflective memory, at the heart of poetry’s deeply personal yet widely shared and recognized expressions.

It’s available for review from Lily Poetry Review’s press.

This month’s issue rides high on a wave, surging towards us with a theme of Fluidity.

Image c/o George Hodan

Some contributors literally speak of water. Eva Lianou Petropoulou personifies the creatures of the sea as she calls for an end to litter and pollution. Xoʻjyozova Dildora discusses environmental damage to the Aral Sea and efforts to restore the ecosystem. Elaine Murray celebrates the wonder of the ocean, wishing to become a mermaid. Brian Barbeito recollects being stung by a jellyfish, resting, and turning out okay in time, comforted by natural and literary beauty. Later, he celebrates the seafaring-inspired writing of Joseph Conrad.

Others address different aspects of life that can feel fluid, such as light and vast open landscapes. Juan Vadillo’s review describes Beatriz Saavedra Gastélum’s poetry collection, “Lucid Breath of Light,” as a journey exploring light in its various forms, memories, and transformations. Mesfakus Salahin immerses himself into nature and creativity. Stephen Jarrell Williams’ serene piece evokes a feeling of gentle tranquility. JoyAnne O’Donnell meditates on a pleasant afternoon outside in a meadow. Sheikha A.’s short, lyrical pieces use vivid imagery and concise language to evoke a range of natural and serene scenes. Sayani Mukherjee celebrates the beauty and splendor of an outdoor festival. Yee Leonsoo’s poems use extreme natural places (a salt desert and a deep-sea sinkhole) to explore identity, memory, and the feeling of in-between-ness. Mark Young’s geographies creatively mutate random regions of Australia into works of art.

We can also perceive time as more fluid than linear. Chuck Taylor explores the idea of the “now” and how it can be captured in words, considering the brief moments between perception and recording. Barbaros İrdelmen’s pieces intertwine ordinary images with themes of love and loss to explore how human connection, memory, and longing persist within and against time’s flow. Kareem Abdullah speaks of love, longing, and memory. Mustafa Abdulmalek Al-Sumaidi reminds us that we are all mortal. Abdel Iatif Moubarak renders up a tale of a singer’s faded glory still piercing the darkness of night.

One’s personality and attitudes also morph and shift over the years. Sevara Matnazarova outlines how her personality and outlook on life changed as she grew older. Susie Gharib’s work addresses authenticity, self-expression, and a desire for a more compassionate and peaceful existence. John Grey’s work explores vulnerability and resilience within the human (and natural) experience. Elisa Mascia’s pieces draw upon changeable natural phenomena such as wind and butterflies to dramatize introspective and emotive explorations of love, loss, and transformation. Yeon Myung-ji’s poem uses the act of shelling beans as a rich metaphor for introspection, resilience, and the quiet, often overlooked, processes of life and growth. Duane Vorhees’ poems explore themes of love, identity, and transformation, often blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Nattie O’ Sheggzy delves into the complexities of simple things and searches for meaning, beauty, and authenticity in a chaotic and often dissonant world.

A whole set of poems by Niall McGrath explore themes of memory, identity, social commentary, and personal struggle, often set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland. Poet Michael Todd Steffen, interviewed by Cristina Deptula about his new book I Saw My Life, explores the intersection of personal and historical memories, identity, and mortality, aiming to inspire reflection, acceptance, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us. Lan Xin highlights how holding space for wonder and gratitude can enhance our daily lives. Kandy Fontaine’s piece mixes theater and prose, celebrating artist Tricia Warden and the intersection of art, literature, and identity, particularly in the context of feminist and queer perspectives.  Christopher Bernard kicks off the next installment of his children’s story Otherwise, a mixture of cultural thought, suspense and middle-grade energy. Tanja Vučićević describes a personal journey, both physically and emotionally, as they navigate through challenges and seek solace and salvation.

Image c/o Jacques Fleury

Writing can play a part in personal reflection and development. J.J. Campbell uses poetry to process his own experiences and emotions and to comment on the human condition. Yongbo Ma’s poems are reflective and introspective, exploring themes of isolation, disconnection, and the search for meaning. Manik Chakraborty wakes us up with the graceful hope of a new morning and continues to seek artistic inspiration despite abandonment from a muse. Ryan Quinn Flanagan probes ordinary life with a poet’s eye, considering the significance of even mundane objects. Jacques Fleury uses rich imagery and references to mythology and literature to highlight the owl’s dualistic nature, embodying both positive and foreboding qualities. Ananya Guha creates a place where a moment of fear and the stories told about it later blend together into a lasting personal myth, half memory, half ghost story. High school English student Reilley Andre expresses a mature perspective on life, pointing out how different people see matters from various points of view, expressing grief, and showing gratitude for his caring sister.

Some love can remain steady amid the flow of time. Gulsanam Mamasiddiqova offers up words of respect and love for her father. Mubina Botirova expresses her love and gratitude for her mother. Tursunova Mehrinoz Oybek qizi pays respect to her mother’s dedication and kindness. Gulchiroy Axmedova expresses tender sentiments of motherly care. Afrose S. celebrates childhood and urges people to protect children. Prasanna Kumar Dalai evokes the tenderness and fragility of early love. Anwer Ghani depicts a steady, tender, and elegant love. Anindya Paul speaks to a profound and intimate romantic devotion that lingers after death. Daniela Chourio-Soto expresses nostalgia through the means of scent. Yongbo Ma’s playful work also encompasses themes of love and human romantic connection.

Of course, not all love stories end happily, and loss is a part of the human condition. Leon Drake’s poems of heavy nostalgia mourn words left unspoken and relationships left unexplored. Donna Dallas speaks of trauma, monstrosity, addiction, and toxic relationships. Kassandra Aguilera’s fragmented poem explores the intoxicating and often painful dynamics of infatuation. On a broader scale, Milena Pčinjski laments the weight of a troubled world, all that could be and all that will never be. Yet, vulnerability is not necessarily weakness, but a prerequisite for change and growth.

Love and caring can also encompass more than one’s own inner circle. Several contributors discuss the fluid state of societal and international relations and advocate for peace and justice. Alan Catlin’s work highlights the human cost of war and its echoes in art and the human soul. Abigail George’s melancholic, reflective poems mourn destruction in Gaza and a personal loss. Shlok Pandey’s fictional story is a poignant portrayal of the human experience during wartime. David Kokoette describes age-old power dynamics and struggles. Mark Wyatt’s fragmented pattern poetry calls out the atrocities made possible by unquestioning obedience to religious and political dictates. Patricia Doyne mocks Donald Trump’s pursuit of grandeur as Bill Tope presents another satirical take on Trump’s proposed arch. Staci Modisette reminds us to protect ourselves while speaking up for peace and justice. Eva Lianou Petropoulou’s gentle words are set to ethereal vocals and a drifting background melody, with an encore here. Аshurоvа Dinоrа Аnvаrqul qizi outlines the role of Uzbekistan’s National Center for Human Rights.

Image c/o Andrea Stockel

Cultural and world history might seem static, but it can also be fluid in the sense that we remember it differently, or remember different aspects of it, over time. What and how we remember can have repercussions in the present. Lan Anh, a Vietnamese economics student in Germany, illustrates the intricate web of relationships between nations, economies, and people, highlighting the invisible boundaries that connect and impact lives in unseen ways. Muhammadyusuf Kozimjonov outlines the historical and cultural development of Uzbekistan. Joseph Ogbonna revels in the intriguing cultural and political history of the island of Corsica. Nozima Gofurova describes the cultural treasures she saw during her tour of Uzbekistan’s Center for Islamic Education. Jernail S. Anand encourages us to look to wise examples from history to create the world we would like to see.

Tasneem Hossain celebrates the richness of the world’s heritage of dance. Federico Wardal highlights an upcoming star-studded event in Rome celebrating Dante Aligheri which will be attended by cinema and theater luminaries. Yatti Sadelli reviews Dr. Bashir Issa Al-Shirawi’s poetry, highlighting his theme of the inner strength and resilience of the world’s women.

Language and literature are part of world culture as well as a bridge among various cultures. Nozimova Shukrona highlights the value and importance of reading as a way to learn and participate in global thought. Jernail S. Anand urges readers to nourish our minds as well as our bodies, with a well-chosen and varied diet. Tursunaliyeva Zilolaxon celebrates the value of books, literature and libraries. Joseph Nechvatal’s review of Rus Khomutoff’s poem “Kaos Karma” examines the work as an abstract machine that combines literature and chaos magick philosophy, exploring themes of multiplicity, singularity, and the relationship between poetry and passion. Yulduz Kurbоnоvа explores how courtesies embedded in the Uzbek language can get lost in translation to other tongues. Delo Isulfi pays tribute to Rohini Kumar Behera, reflecting on his poetry, highlighting Behera’s themes of peace, gratitude, and nature, and how they convey a sense of spirituality and universality.

Education serves as a vital site where tradition and innovation meet—a place where societies negotiate fluid continuity and change. Many contributors discuss best practices for teaching language and other subjects in school. Subanova Dilafruz discusses audio aids for young language learners. Charos Mansurova discusses the phenomenon of English “loan-words” in Korean. Azimova Nilufar Egamberdiyevna compares word structures in English and Uzbek. Pardayeva Yulduz outlines methods of English-Uzbek idiom translation. Abduraufova Nilufar Khurshidjon kizi highlights the need for parents and educators to work together to teach young children. Qurbana Mubinakhon Umidjon qizi discusses how parents and educators can cooperate to inculcate national values in Uzbek children. Usmonaliyeva Bahora Abduvali qizi explores the role of idioms in Uzbek literature. Ahadova Feruzakhon looks at ways to improve student vocabulary knowledge.

Image c/o Omar Sahel

Abduhalilova Sevdora Xayrulla kizi asserts the importance of physical education in school. Isakova Mukhlisa Khusanboevna illuminates exercise as a stress reliever for students. Bakhromova Gulsanam discusses the importance of inclusive education for students with disabilities and practical ways to make that happen. Abdullajanova Shahnozals’hoqxon suggests ways to help shy language students feel more comfortable speaking up in class. Dildoraxon Turgunboyeva explores how to create nurturing and educational preschool environments. Abduhalilova Sevdora offers up a polylexical analysis of English language phraseology. Turdaliyeva Mohidil Baxtiyor qizi discusses classroom activities to enhance student vocabulary. Dildoraxon Turg’unboyeva highlights the value of dictionaries in education. Ahadova Feruzakhon suggests ways to work with vocabulary when teaching young students their native language. Shahnoza Amanboyeva points to 3D modeling and artificial intelligence as tools to enhance science classrooms.

One of education’s important social functions is to prepare students to join the workforce. The global economic landscape is continually in flux, as several contributors discuss. Satimboyeva Risolat Ilhomboy qizi outlines future prospects for job growth given emerging world technologies. Azamova Feruza Abduholiq qizi suggests ways to improve the service sector of Uzbekistan’s economy.

Turning to medicine, Mamadiyorova Durdona outlines the structure and function of the human placenta. Ashurova Parizoda explores the biological characteristics of the parasite Ascaris and its effects on the human body. Xamroyeva Shaxlo discusses the process of blood formation in the human body.

For a look at a widely discussed technology, Rahmonova Barno Kilich qizi probes the economic future of our world after the growth of artificial intelligence. Nurmatova Charosxon Pirnazar qizi also explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping education and the global economy. Toshbotirov Bekjaxon Asliddin o‘g‘li outlines useful roles for AI in the classroom. O’rinboyeva Ziynatjon Anvarbek qizi points to effects of artificial intelligence on society.

Image c/o Andrea Stockel

Dildora Sultonova celebrates human intelligence, singing an ode to her resplendent and resilient dreams. Eva Petropoulou Lianou interviews poet Eldar Akhadov, highlighting his optimism and respect for the next generation.

A common thread in this entire issue is the persistence of human connection in the face of change. Each contributor grapples with how individuals and communities relate to each other, to history and culture, to the natural world. Smaller scale personal narratives and larger stories intertwine as overlapping dimensions of the human story. The blending of artistic forms and styles in several works evokes the complex flowing of ideas within the creative mind, a current that dissolves rigid boundaries among ideas and cultures.

The collection suggests that while much of our lives inevitably flows and shifts with the passage of time and with cultural and technological change, the underlying human impulses to connect, to understand, and to create meaning remain constant..

Poetry from Dr. Jernail S. Anand

Older South Asian man in a pink turban and coat and tie standing and reading from a large open book.

Diet chart

 

What you feed on 

So that your body keeps moving 

Is your food 

And what keeps it 

In good trim are your thoughts .

Your stomach is not hungry alone 

Your mind too 

Feeds on certain ideas

What you entertain and take in

Is also a part of your daily diet 

All the ideas that generate in your mind 

Or which strike your mind 

From outside 

Look at the type of thoughts 

You find delicious 

Evil is a great delicacy 

Foul  deeds smell so sweet 

You do not need as many arguments

To commit a crime 

As you need to keep you  away from it

We are healthy on the basis 

Of what we eat

We are happy on the basis of 

What we intake as thoughts 

Together they form a complete man

Our focus is on fruit, calories, 

Vitamins, Calcium etc 

But we make extra use of our brain too 

Which is rivetted on artificial joys,

Making merry and go happy.

Body is healthy, but mind is sick 

The thoughts it needs are missing 

We are on a decadent diet 

Dwindling by the  day 

As human beings..

Dr. Jernail S. Anand is a poet and philosopher from India.

Essay from Dildoraxon Turgunboyeva

Turgunboyeva Dildorakhon, 4th year student of the Faculty of Pedagogy and Psychology, Preschool Education Department, Kokand State University

DEVELOPING ENVIRONMENT IN THE PRESCHOOL EDUCATION SYSTEM AND ITS PEDAGOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Dildorakhon Turgunboyeva, Student of the Faculty of Pedagogy and Psychology of Kokand State University

Annotation. This article highlights the importance of a developing environment in the process of educating preschool children. It scientifically analyzes the content, main functions of the developing environment, and its impact on the cognitive, socio-emotional and creative development of children. It also provides practical recommendations on the organization and effective use of a developing environment in the pedagogical process.

Keywords: Preschool education, developing environment, education, child development, pedagogical approaches, creative development, socio-emotional development.

INTRODUCTION. Preschool is one of the most important, active stages of growth and development in a young person’s life. During this period, the child is formed not only physically, but also mentally, socially, morally and aesthetically. Therefore, the educational environment created at this age is of decisive importance for the child’s future life and personal development. The Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan No. PF-19 dated February 5, 2026 “On measures to further improve the system of preschool education and upbringing” and the comprehensive measures aimed at its implementation serve to develop the preschool education system in accordance with modern requirements. In this process, the developing environment created for preschool children plays an important role in their adaptation to society and comprehensive development[1].

LITERATURE ANALYSIS AND METHODS. The issue of the environment affecting the development of preschool children has been widely studied in modern pedagogical and psychological sciences. In particular, Lev Vygotsky’s theory of social development substantiates the decisive role of the developing environment in the formation of a child’s knowledge and skills. According to him, child development occurs in the process of interaction with the social environment and adults. In modern preschool education practice, advanced pedagogical approaches such as the Montessori method and the Reggio Emilia approach demonstrate effective methods for creating a developing environment. In these approaches, the environment is considered one of the main factors in the child’s development and serves to support his independence, creativity and initiative. At the same time, the pedagogical competence of parents and educators, as well as the child’s entry into a healthy social environment, are also of great importance. This study used methods of analysis, comparison and generalization of scientific literature.

DISCUSSION. Creating a developing environment in the process of educating preschool children is an important condition for the comprehensive development of the child. Analysis of theoretical sources shows that the pedagogical views of scientists such as Lev Vygotsky justify the central role of the developing environment in the mental and social development of the child. At the same time, modern pedagogical approaches such as the Montessori method and the Reggio Emilia approach highlight the importance of the developing environment not only in terms of the material and technical base, but also in supporting the independence, initiative and creative freedom of the child.

In practice, the organization of a developing environment is not limited to toys and didactic materials. It includes, first of all, the attitude of educators to the child, effective communication, an atmosphere of cooperation and positive social relations. The results of the study show that children brought up in such an environment tend to think independently, acquire teamwork skills and actively engage in creative activities. Education is a process of comprehensive development of the younger generation, the formation of its consciousness, behavior and worldview, based on a specific goal, based on socio-historical experience [2. – P. 388].

In this regard, it is important to regularly update the developing environment in preschool educational institutions and introduce modern pedagogical methods into practice. However, there are some problems in organizing a developing environment. In particular, the lack of material resources, the level of qualification of teachers, and the lack of effective cooperation with parents can negatively affect this process [3. – P. 224]. Therefore, in future research, it remains an urgent issue to eliminate these problems, further improve the developing environment and increase its effectiveness.

RESULTS. A developing environment is a set of physical, psychological, didactic and social conditions created around a child, which supports the comprehensive development of the child’s personality, stimulates his interests and directs him to self-realization. Such an environment includes the following components: a comfortable and safe space adapted to the child, didactic toys and tools appropriate to his age, opportunities for stimulating independent activity, positive communication and emotional support, as well as pedagogical approaches based on play, creativity, experience and discovery. Based on the studied theoretical and practical sources, it was determined that a developing environment is of great importance in educating preschool children.

The results of the study show that a developing environment has a significant impact on the cognitive, socio-emotional and creative development of a child. In particular, such an environment serves to form independent thinking, self-management and decision-making skills in children. It has also been observed that children develop their knowledge and skills effectively when they participate in activities that are relevant to their interests and needs. The activities of teachers and the proper organization of the educational environment strengthen children’s social communication, cooperation and teamwork skills. A developing environment is determined not only by material means, but also by pedagogical approaches and socio-psychological conditions. At the same time, during the study, the lack of a material base and the low level of methodological training of teachers were identified as significant obstacles to creating a developing environment[4. – P. 145].

The main functions of a developing environment are as follows:- Ensuring cognitive development – the child understands the environment through games, activities and experiments, understands cause-and-effect relationships. – Supporting social and emotional development – communication, cooperation and mutual respect skills are formed. – Developing creative potential – the child expresses himself freely through art, music, drawing and dramatic activities. – Forming independence and self-control – the opportunity to act on the basis of choice increases the independence of the child’s personality.

CONCLUSION. In conclusion, we can say that the developing environment created for preschool children ensures their healthy intellectual, social, emotional and creative development. Such an environment is not limited only to material conditions, but also includes the professional qualifications of teachers, their educational approach and a respectful attitude towards the child. Each preschool educational institution should become a free, safe and developing space for children. Teachers, using modern methods and technologies, should create an environment that encourages children’s independence and creativity. At the same time, it is important to constantly improve the educational environment and strengthen cooperation with parents and the public.

References: 1. Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated February 5, 2026 No. PF-19 “On measures to further improve the system of preschool education and upbringing”. Electronic resource: https://lex.uz/pdfs/-8037353. 2. Khoshimov K., Nishnova S., Ibimova M. and others. History of Pedagogy. – Tashkent: Уүтитуччи, 1996. 3. Khodjayev V.Kh. General theory and practice of pedagogy. – Tashkent: Sano-standart, 2017. 4. Khalikova U.M. Methodology for designing pedagogical processes in preschool education. – Tashkent: Science and Education, 2022. 5. Alikulova M.Sh. Organization of development centers. – Karshi: Science-science-spirituality, 2025.

Poetry from Jernail S. Anand

THE WORLD WE WANT 

What is worth watching?

And what is worth recording 

History has no ear 

Nor eye for good.

An era of happiness

And peace is unhistorical 

So are good people 

Unfit for a mention 

In history books

If you can threaten life 

And if you can kill

And make rivers of blood 

Flow in the pages of history 

You are the greatest character 

Worth being recorded 

With great reverence 

By the way who is the greatest hero

Of history books?

Socrates and Aristotle 

And Shakespeare do not possess

The top position which history books 

Assign to Alexander, Achelles, 

Napoleon and Hitler

And with great reverence 

We offer their lives to our kids.

Certainly what type of a world

We want? Is there any doubt?

Poetry from Gulchiroy Axmedova

A Mother’s Prayer

For the sleepless nights I’ve lived through,

For the restless days I’ve carried through,

For the words I held back, unspoken and true,

Oh my God, let my child not suffer pain,

Grant healing too — for everything, my thanks remain.

I endure… I have always endured, it’s true,

Don’t frighten me — I might grow weak too,

Patience isn’t enough for all three at once, it’s true,

Oh my God, let my child not suffer pain,

I became a good mother — for that, I thank You again.

When I care for one, another begins to cry,

As I soothe this one, the other stands nearby,

I’m tired, so tired — that’s the honest truth I can’t deny,

Oh my God, give me strength, give me patience to hold,

And thanks to my mother, who bore me so strong and bold.

Gulchiroy Axmedova (born August 8, 1996) is a second-year student at Kokand State University, majoring in Primary and Technological Education.

Essay from Nozimova Shukrona

The Power of Books: How Reading Shapes Our Minds

Books are more than just words on pages—they open doors to new worlds, ideas, and experiences. From the moment we learn to read, books begin to shape our minds, expand our imagination, and help us understand the world. Every story teaches us something about people, cultures, and emotions. Reading encourages curiosity, empathy, and broader thinking.

Books also develop creativity and critical thinking. While reading, we imagine scenes, interpret meanings, and connect ideas. Reading also improves vocabulary and helps us express thoughts clearly. In today’s fast-paced information age, books provide a space for deep thinking and reflection that short messages or headlines cannot replace.

Reading affects not only personal growth but also society. Readers tend to be open-minded, empathetic, and more understanding of other cultures. Knowledge gained from books helps individuals contribute more thoughtfully to their communities.

In conclusion, reading enriches our minds, hearts, and lives. It opens doors to knowledge, nurtures empathy, and strengthens creativity and critical thinking. Books are not just a form of entertainment—they are a powerful force shaping personal and social development.

My name is Nozimova Shukrona, and I was born on January 31, 2011, in Oltiariq district of the Fergana region. Currently, I am a 9th-grade student at the Fergana branch of the specialized school named after Muhammad al-Khwarizmi.

Despite my young age, I have a strong interest in science and creativity. Since my early school years, I have actively participated in various academic competitions. For example, in grades 5–7, I took part in the Hippo English Olympiad and the Kangaroo Mathematics competition, where I had the opportunity to test and improve my knowledge.

In 8th grade, while studying at Specialized School No. 4 in Oltiariq, I was also a member of the “Zakovat” intellectual team, and together with my team, we achieved 4th place in the district competition. During the same year, I ranked among the top 10 in the district stage of the Al-Khwarizmi Olympiad. I have also taken part in many subject Olympiads and achieved high results.

Currently, I am participating in the provincial stage of the History Olympiad, where I continue to demonstrate my knowledge and abilities. In addition, I am a member of my school’s “Zakovat” intellectual team, and we are competing at the provincial level. Recently, I achieved a B+ level in the National Certificate exam in Uzbek Language and Literature. I am also interested in sports. When I was younger, I practiced gymnastics and won several competitions.

I actively participate in different initiatives and projects, where I not only show my eagerness to learn but also develop my leadership skills. I have clear goals for the future, and my dreams are high.

Poetry from Reilley Andre

Plague vs Blessing

We praise our dragonfly, a blade of light,
It skims the ponds and thins the whining swarm
We curse the mosquito that hunts the night.

One feeds on pests, a mercy in our sight,
The other drinks from us to keep it alive and warm
We praise the dragonfly, its edge of light.

We bless what helps us sleep a little tight,
And damn what leaves our blood and bodies torn
We curse the mosquito that hunts the night.

Names come easy when the scale feels right
Boon for our comfort, pest by what it harms;
We praise the dragonfly, a spear against blight.

So ask of us, beneath history’s Ivory light:
For those who come after, what name is sworn
Were we the boon that held the future tight,
Or the pest that spreads a plague through the night?

Smokey Ash    

In every dream I see you in fire.
It wasn’t fate yet I fed the flame after the fire


My grief was silent, not like the public choir.
Each voice professed your silent under the ashes.
Of the fire

A thief of my desire
I wore you borrowed silk, its strands on fire

Shame returned as I walked by the pyre.
I was desperate, to, this time, save you from that fire.

You brought forth a truth I couldn’t acquire
We are the ash that lingers, after the fire.

Guardian

A Guardian is a protector someone with a shield
Let me tell you about my guardian
And the sword she wields.

My protector is a fighter
I have no worry about her prowess as a healer.
For me she is invulnerable as a suit of armor.
Yet even the most royal archetype can have a flaw.

I got a mirror that let me travel through time.
To see that berserker in her weakest design.
Here she was worried about her mistakes.
That she keeps making with no escape.

I showed her a photo of her family looking strong
Does that look like you’ve been doing it wrong
It looks like love patient and true
And for that love we thank you.

Thank you my dear sister
May you remain that caring guardian forever

Reilly Andre is currently in his senior year at St. Benedict’s Prep in Newark, NJ.