Poetry from Jessica Hu

Coming Home From the Middle of Nowhere

Take me home, will you?

Hello, hello, can you hear me?

I am here in the middle of nowhere.

I do not know where to go,

Even though my destination is here,

The wind is blowing into my back:

I am kind of cold.

Take me home will you?

Bang, Bang Bang!

Hello, Hello, you hear me right?

I am walking an endless corridor,

The choice is formed.

Burning fluids run down the unknown.

My mother is banging on the bathroom door like a knife about to come through the door and me.

/1

/2

/3….

I’ll stay cold.

I’m going home.

Tan-renga from Jerome Berglund and Christina Chin

Jerome Berglund (italic)

Christina Chin (plain)

tiger

fears the serpent 

also

artificial selection 

survival traits

pink hyacinth 

revenging self 

upon desire

invasive 

the Terror of Bengal

per-chic-o-ree

bumming a light in front of 

propane tanks 

swoops and chirps 

conversations with friends

Essay from Abdirashidova Ozoda

Young Central Asian woman with a white headscarf, blue jacket and flowered top, brown eyes seated on a white chair next to white flowers in a white vase.

BUILDING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND SOCIAL SKILLS

Abstract

This article discusses the issue of developing emotional intelligence and social skills in preschool education. The concept of emotional intelligence, its theoretical foundations, and its importance in the personal and social development of children are analyzed. Also, methods that serve to develop empathy, self-control, communication culture, and cooperation in preschool children are analyzed – approaches such as role-playing games, fairy tales and stories, collaborative tasks, and art activities. The article also shows the role of cooperation with parents and the advantages of upbringing methods based on national values. The conclusion justifies the necessity of developing emotional intelligence from an early age for the child’s future.

Keywords: emotional intelligence, social skills, empathy, communication culture, preschool education, cooperation.

Enter

In today’s globalization process, one of the main tasks of the educational process is to form not only knowledge and skills, but also personal and social qualities in children. A person’s full self-expression and effective functioning in society are directly related to the level of emotional intelligence (EI).

Psychologists believe that the earlier a child learns to understand his own emotions, manage them, and respond appropriately to the emotions of others, the higher his future educational success and level of adaptation in social life. Therefore, the development of emotional intelligence in the preschool education system is one of the most pressing issues today.

The main part

The concept of emotional intelligence

The concept of “emotional intelligence” was first introduced into scientific circulation by American scientists P. Salovey and J. Mayer. Later, D. Gouleman developed this idea and identified five main components of emotional intelligence:

1. Understanding one’s own emotions;

2. Self-control;

3. Intrinsic motivation;

4. Empathy,

5. Social skills.

These components play an important role in a child’s personal development, educational success, and future professional career.

The importance of emotional intelligence in preschool education

Preschool is a crucial period in the psychological, social, and emotional development of a young child. During this period, the development of emotional intelligence provides the following opportunities:

creates the child’s ability to understand and correctly express their feelings;

managing negative emotions and channeling them constructively;

-develop a culture of communication with peers;

-developing group and team work skills;

enhancing empathy and compassion.

Methods for building social skills

The following methods are effective for developing social skills in children:

is:

1. Role-playing – children learn to understand the feelings of others by acting out different situations.

2. Collaborative tasks develop communication and collaboration by completing tasks together in a small group.

3. Through fairy tales and stories, artistic works instill qualities such as distinguishing between good and evil, kindness, and helpfulness.

4. Artistic activities enhance the ability to express emotions through music, painting, and drama.

5. Cooperation with parents and emotional support in the family ensure psychological stability in children.

Scientific and practical foundations

According to psychological research, the age range of 3-6 years is the most active period in a child’s emotional and social development. Therefore, educators and psychologists should pay special attention to the development of emotional intelligence in children.

The “Concept of Preschool Education” adopted in the Republic of Uzbekistan also identifies social and emotional development in children as one of the priority areas.

Summary

In conclusion, the development of emotional intelligence and social skills is an integral part of the preschool educational process. A child with high emotional intelligence:

-can understand himself and others; -keeps balance in stressful situations;

– establishes positive social relationships;

– achieves high results in education.

Therefore, special programs aimed at developing emotional intelligence in children should be developed in collaboration with educators, parents, and psychologists. This will not only ensure the harmonious formation of the child’s personality, but also create a healthy, tolerant, and cooperative society in the future.

Therefore, developing emotional intelligence is the most important foundation for successfully building a child’s future.

Used literature

1. Salovey P., Mayer J. D. Emotional Intelligence. Imagination, Cognition and Personality, 1990.

2. Goleman D. Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books, 1995.

3. “Concept of Preschool Education” of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Tashkent, 2019.

4. Karimova V.M. Fundamentals of Psychology. Tashkent, 2018,

5. Methodological manuals of the Ministry of Preschool Education, Tashkent, 2022.

6. Vygotsky L.S. Development of psychology for a child. Moscow, 1984.

7. Shoumarov G. Pedagogical Psychology. Tashkent, 2020.

8. OpenAl. Scientific and analytical materials created using ChatGPT (GPT-5). 2025.

Abdirashidova Ozoda, Born in Chiraqchi district of Kashkadarya region, studied at the Pedagogical Faculty of Karshi State University,  majoring in preschool education.  Ambassador and member of international organizations. Holder of international certificates.

Poetry from Niloy Rafiq

Painting of a middle aged South Asian man with curly hair, a green top, and a smile.

THE ACCUSED IS ACQUITTED

A lost morning draws coins in the hamlet of justice

Dreams burn fruitlessly on the bright mountains

The sun goes down in tired steps. In a whimsical deception

I draw words at the mirror of time, in the nest of creation.

A black odour in the sky of time, the shirt of state

Echoed with peaceful revolt, the fragrant pen

Comes running, I’m speaking the truth, my lord,

The accused is present here, take him away to the jail.

Birds fly as far as the illusory house of art

Flowers bloom in the garden at the yard all day long

Days after, at the end of the month, the accused appears

The tree-shade, the window of light burst in laughter.

The spring is over after crossing the six seasons

There is no sin, the notebook is blank, and the accused is acquitted.

Translated by Jyotirmoy Nandy

Niloy Rafiq was born in 6 August 1983 Maheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Niloy Rafiq has been writing in the literary pages of local daily newspapers since his school days. Later, his poems were published in national and international literary magazines including various famous little magazines. So far, his notable poems have been translated into more than twenty foreign languages. His English poetry book ‘Sun Leaf” has already been published under ‘Stockholm Project 2033 Global Leader’ by Amazon. His second English translated poetry book ‘An Incomplete Kiss” has published in 2024 from Amazon. The number of his poetry books written in Bengali languages are six, respectively 1. I, the swan, float in pure sadness, 2. Thirst’s eternity, 3. Salty man’s face, 4. Unknown fire, 5. Adinath in eyes, 6. Wax prayer bowed in a clay body. His poetry has a magical, edgy feeling. Poet Niloy Rafiq is like a magician in the extraordinary weaving of words and rhythms.

Facebook: niloyrafiq

Poetry from Maftuna Rustamova

Relatives

You are all here, our house is peaceful,

The house, our wedding is peaceful.

Our hearts, our souls are at peace,

Be well, relatives.

Birthday, wedding, party,

All for you.

The open gate,

The doors are for you.

Stay healthy, our happiness,

Playing, laughing, and having fun.

We wish you luck,

Come on, relatives!

Maftuna Rustamova is a ninth grade student at secondary school #30, Bukhara region, Jondor District.

Music from Dino Kalyvas, lyrics from Eva Lianou Petropoulou

Poem by Eva Lianou Petropoulou

Song, music, orchestration and production by Dino Kalyvas

Lyrics

«I found you

Because you were hurt

I cherished you

As I felt your pain

I love you and

I cover your wounds

With silver

So, you will shine

You will shine

You will never break again

I will create a bridge for all the hurt people

I will build golden pillars

Nobody will hurt again children or women

As the diamonds

They will shine

We will Rise

And we will be reborn in a future peaceful world»

“The song “Golden bridges” is my next musical step. It is not a large musical play or cycle of songs or arias with many musical innovations, effects, vocal parts, etc., but just a song with a few jazz colors where the piano dominates. However, although just a song, I consider it very important since this is an “anthem” for people with disabilities and special needs. It is also dedicated to all para-athletes.

Reading carefully the poem of dear Mrs. Eva Lianou Petropoulou, you could see the love and warmth that our society must provide for people with disabilities and special needs, and for every other suffering fellow human being. As units of our society, if we want to claim a better world, more justly and more beautiful, if we want to be included in the “Kingdom of Heaven”, we must walk the path of Love and giving to our fellow man. We must carry on our backs the misery and pain of the other people beside us. Also, let’s try with all our strength to have no more wars!”

Image of a middle aged European woman with brown eyes and a black and white checkered hat and dark coat.

—————————————————————

ΧΡΥΣΕΣ ΓΕΦΥΡΕΣ – ΔΕΛΤΙΟ ΤΥΠΟΥ

Αγγλικό ποίημα της Εύας Λιανού Πετροπούλου

Ερμηνεία, μουσική, ενορχήστρωση και παραγωγή : Ντίνος Καλύβας

(Στίχοι σε ελεύθερη μετάφραση στα Ελληνικά από τον συνθέτη)

«Σε βρήκα μιας και ήσουν πληγωμένος

Σε φρόντισα μιας κι αισθανόμουν τον πόνο σου

Σε αγαπώ και καλύπτω τις πληγές σου με ασήμι

Έτσι λοιπόν θα λάμψεις

Ναι θα λάμψεις και δεν θα γίνεις κομμάτια ποτέ ξανά

Θα φτιάξω μια χρυσή γέφυρα για κάθε πληγωμένο άνθρωπο

Θα την χτίσω με χρυσά μεγάλα τούβλα

Δεν πρόκειται να πληγωθεί ξανά ποτέ παιδί ή γυναίκα

Κι όπως τα διαμάντια

Όλα θα λάμψουν

Κι εμείς αναστημένοι (πνευματικά και ψυχικά)

Θα ξαναγεννηθούμε σε έναν μελλοντικό ειρηνικό κόσμο»

Οι «χρυσές γέφυρες» αποτελούν το επόμενο μουσικό βήμα μου. Δεν είναι κάποιο ολοκληρωμένο μεγάλο έργο ή κύκλος τραγουδιών ή αριών με πολλές μουσικές καινοτομίες, εφέ, φωνητικά μέρη κλπ, παρά ένα λιτό τραγούδι με λίγες Τζαζ αποχρώσεις όπου κυριαρχεί το πιάνο. Ωστόσο αν και μικρό, το θεωρώ πολύ σημαντικό μιας και το παρόν αποτελεί «ύμνο» για τα άτομα με αναπηρίες και ειδικές ανάγκες.

 Είναι επίσης αφιερωμένο στους αθλητές με αναπηρίες.

Πίσω από τους λιγοστούς στίχους της αγαπητής κυρίας Εύας Λιανού Πετροπούλου, αναδύεται η αγάπη και η θαλπωρή που πρέπει να παρέχει η κοινωνία μας σε αυτά τα άτομα αλλά κι όλους τους πονεμένους συνανθρώπους μας. 

Αλλά κι εμείς ως μονάδες της κοινωνίας μας, αν θέλουμε να διεκδικήσουμε έναν καλύτερο κόσμο, δικαιότερο κι ομορφότερο, αν θέλουμε να διεκδικήσουμε την «Βασιλεία των Ουρανών» , πρέπει να βαδίσουμε το δρόμο της Αγάπης και της προσφοράς προς τον συνάνθρωπο. Πρέπει να συμμεριστούμε τη δυστυχία και τον πόνο του διπλανού μας . 

Επίσης, να προσπαθήσουμε με όλες μας τις δυνάμεις να μην υπάρχουν πια πόλεμοι!

Μετά Τιμής

Ντίνος Καλύβας 

Older European man, bald, in a dark suit coat and red tie, standing in front of water and a historical stone ruin.

Poetry from Alan Catlin

Just Another Familiar Face

 His face was all over

 the TV news and the front

 page of all the local

 papers.  It was a familiar

 face to me and the answer

 to one of those trivia quizzes

 you never expect to get

 the answer to: What the hell

 were all those cops doing

 in Richute’s used car lot?

 What they were doing was

 putting the arm on this clown

 I’d been dusting off in

 a series of bar jobs for

 years.  I knew, he was no

 good and not too bright ,but

 killing your sister in law

 and leaving her wired to the

 front door handle with a coat

 hanger and leaving her on

 the block God forgot was

 beyond stupidity.  Being dead

 was bad enough but leaving her

 on Elberon Place, a block from

 where he lived, was not too bright,

 especially with a record

 like the one he had.

 When the captain said,

 “Round up all the usual

 suspects,” they didn’t have

 far to look.  

The Invisible Men

 They knock on the old guy’s

 door with a baseball bat.

 It’s like A Clockwork Orange

 in black and white.

 “Open up, like right now

 or there’s going to be big

 trouble.”

 “Go away, you’ve got no

 business being here.”

 But they do, kicking down

 the door, knocking him

 senseless and rifling all

 the cabinets and drawers,

 withdrawing his life savings.

 On the way out they kick him

 and extra few times in the

 head leaving him senseless

 in a puddle of blood.

 Across the street, in the bar

 with no name, they buy rounds

 of drinks for their friends

 and hangers on, drowning out

 the sirens with classic juke box

 rock and roll. Tipping the bartender

 twenty big ones, they hit

 the bricks around two.

 Later, when questioned, no one

 in the bar remembers seeing

 anyone matching their descriptions.

“We need to talk.”

She said, in a way that meant:

she spoke and I listened.  

I thought about how this one-sided

conversation was about to go,

wondered which transgression

she was going to harp on.  

There were so many to choose from.

As she began to speak,

the opening scenes from the black

and white move, “Night and the City”

began on the muted TV next to

where she was standing.

I watched Richard Widmark

running for his life; long shadows on

concrete and cobblestones.

Soon he’d be trying to steal a good

woman’s money but she was wise to

his ways. Hid her money elsewhere

even if lied and stole from her,

she loved him anyway.  Who could

take advantage of someone as

beautiful and as kind as Gene Tierney?

Richard Widmark could.

I wasn’t the kind of guy someone loved

that much.  

“You’re not listening to me, are you?”

“No.” I admitted.

I watched Widmark rifling through

Gene’s pocketbook. It would all be downhill

from here.

Blood Thirsty Cannibals

The cabbie who was going to

kill himself, dropped me where

Madison meets Lark downtown.

Later, I would think, he must have

been marking his declining years

by how may teeth had fallen out

and it was almost time to die.  

There were a few stories going

around about how he did it but none

of them involved an open coffin so

we’ll never ever know for sure.

I had a reading on Central upstairs,

at the Boulevard bookstore after a slow day

working the bar on a New Year’s Eve.

There was a major weird vibe just being

where I was, nearly seventy degrees outside,

in work clothes, sober and seriously

needing a drink. Didn’t matter much

where, I thought, picked a bar and

wandered in.  The mauve neon should

have been a dead giveaway but I wasn’t

thinking atmosphere, what I was thinking

was Johnny Walker Red now. Called for

a Rob Roy and stared into the face of the most

clueless person who had ever stood behind

a bar. Then I saw all of his lip licking friends

in the backbar mirror staring at me as

if I were chum on the waters. Jesus Harry

Christ, I thought, tried again.

“You’ve heard of a Manhattan, right?

Think Scotch instead of Rye, and pretend

you are making one of those with a whisper

of Dry Vermouth and lemon twist.

You know how to do a lemon twist, right?

If not, I’ll show you. Make it one of those

mini-shakers and pour it over ice and no on

gets hurt, okay? There might even be a nice

tip in it for you.”

Drinking was my avocation in those days

and I took my work seriously sort of like

a blood thirsty cannibal before the main meal.

Thought to myself, that wasn’t a half-bad

title for a poem. I had over an hour to kill

before the reading.  I could get a lot of work

done in an hour. All I needed now was

to keep the piranha at bay, some bar napkins

to write on and a pen.

The Man on the Windshield

Jumps off thruway

overpass, lands on car

doing 70, maybe, 80 m.p.h.,

goes airborne, lands on

windshield of second car,

rebounds off the soft

shoulder/verge. Lives.

Says, the whole experience

gave no meaning to phrase,

“Bad acid flashback.”

Says, it was his third suicide

attempt.  Failed. Sues everyone

involved. Loses. Walks with

a limp now. Looks like shit.