Poetry from Stephen Jarrell Williams

She Said She Could

She said she could

feel

everyone’s

pain

all types of pain

ever since

she was

a small child

behind the bars

of her crib

alone in her room

especially when

they walked by

thinking she was

asleep

but she was awake

with her eyes

closed

sensing emotions

of every type

and degree

hot or cold

whispering

or silent

she was

there

within

them

moments magnified

breath to breath

heartbeat to heartbeat

she couldn’t

die

to all the slow dying

so she

kept them from dying.

The Wait

I’m approaching

my peak

feeling

it

every second

I think

and feel

tip and tease

heading straight

into years

down that path

street turning

into corners

I’ll make the max

of what I’ve got

so wait until

you’re ready

to understand

the years of fate

are

great!

To Be or Not to Be

I don’t want

to be

crazy

but sometimes

I am

enjoying it

so much

I’m not sure

if I should

stop

or just pop

open

to everything!

Poetry from Maja Milojkovic

Younger middle aged white woman with long blonde hair, glasses, and a green top and floral scarf and necklace.
Maja Milojkovic

THE CLOCK 

On the wall of heaven hangs a clock, 

invisible, silent, without hands, 

and yet — it is everywhere. 

It does not measure minutes, 

but the tremors of the soul. 

Its mechanism is moved by truth, 

and its hands stop 

when a man lies. 

It knows the difference between 

words and feelings, 

it hears the silence of the heart 

when it trembles under the weight of guilt. 

It is no ordinary clock — 

it is God’s measure of goodness,

 a secret guardian of sincerity. 

Every thought, every intention,

every shadow in one’s gaze 

leaves a trace upon its glass. 

When you love purely, it shines, 

when you envy, a gear breaks within it. 

It does not tick “tick-tock,” 

but whispers: 

“were you truthful,” 

“have you touched souls,” 

“were you truly you.” 

Its time does not pass, 

it judges. 

And while the world turns in false seconds, 

that clock — unseen, eternal — 

quietly measures souls, 

not days.

Maja Milojković was born in Zaječar and divides her life between Serbia and Denmark. In Serbia, she serves as the deputy editor-in-chief at the publishing house Sfairos in Belgrade. She is also the founder and vice president of the Rtanj and Mesečev Poets’ Circle, which counts 800 members, and the editor-in-chief of the international e-magazine Area Felix, a bilingual Serbian-English publication. She writes literary reviews, and as a poet, she is represented in numerous domestic and international literary magazines, anthologies, and electronic media. Some of her poems are also available on the YouTube platform. Maja Milojković has won many international awards. She is an active member of various associations and organizations advocating for peace in the world, animal protection, and the fight against racism. She is the author of two books: Mesečev krug (Moon Circle) and Drveće Želje (Trees of Desire). She is one of the founders of the first mixed-gender club Area Felix from Zaječar, Serbia, and is currently a member of the same club. She is a member of the literary club Zlatno Pero from Knjaževac, and the association of writers and artists Gorski Vidici from Podgorica, Montenegro.

Poetry from Orzigul Sharobiddinovna Ibragimova

Longing

Far away, the roads stretch long,

Though no lamp glows, my heart is strong.

A piercing pain within me throng,

I miss your soil, my homeland’s song.

In hand, the hoe on fields so wide,

Restless toil, no pause to bide.

I wait along the street with pride,

I miss my father, homeland’s side.

Warm bread held tightly in my hand,

My suffering, my silent stand.

Awaited my return, close at hand,

I miss my mother, homeland’s land.

Sweet words that charm and softly bind,

Love engraved deep in heart and mind.

Daily, roads to you I find,

I miss my beloved, homeland kind.

A child who plays with toy in glee,

Sees my face and hugs with spree.

They are the tears within my sea,

I miss my children, homeland, thee.

Village… oven… that warm bread’s scent,

Every living soul with labor spent.

Life for daily bread is gently lent,

I miss my village, homeland’s tent.

Neighbors, kin, all close and dear,

Loved ones who to my heart adhere.

In every feast, may they appear,

I miss them truly, homeland near.

In labor’s work, your thoughts abide,

Before your greatness, I stand wide.

I need you, homeland, as my guide,

I miss your soil, my nation’s pride.

Orzigul Sharobiddinovna Ibragimova was born on January 5, 1990, in Uchko‘prik District, Fergana Region. She is currently a first-year student in Group 25 64 at the Agrarian Joint Faculty, majoring in Zootechnics. She has a special interest in community activities, radio, and motivational speeches. She enjoys working with students, preparing presentations, and participating in creative projects. She is also a member of the Fergana State University Mushoira Club.

Essay from Adhamova Irodaxon Akmal qizi

Student of Fergana State University

Faculty of Foreign Philology

Major in Foreign Language and Literature (English)

2nd-year student

OLIGOFREN CHILDREN: PSYCHIC DEVELOPMENT CHARACTERISTICS AND EDUCATIONAL CHALLENGES

Annotation: This article provides a scientific analysis of the concept of oligofrenic children, their cognitive development characteristics, and the challenges encountered in the education and upbringing process. The study examines cognitive activity, thinking, memory, attention, and speech delays in oligofrenic children, as well as the special pedagogical methods used in their teaching and upbringing. Methodologically, the article is based on theoretical analysis, observation, and comparison. The results indicate that early identification of oligofrenic children and the implementation of individualized programs and specialized approaches effectively promote their development and social adaptation.

Keywords: oligofrenic children, special pedagogy, psychology, oligophrenopedagogy, cognitive development, correctional lessons, pedagogical methods.

Introduction: In modern society, the socio-economic development of a country places new and responsible demands on the education system. In particular, identifying children with intellectual disabilities and organizing effective educational and upbringing processes for them is one of the pressing issues. Failure to adequately consider the psychological and individual characteristics of oligofrenic children during instruction reduces educational effectiveness and prevents children from fully realizing their potential. Practical experience shows that many oligofrenic children are forced to study in general education institutions, which creates additional difficulties in their cognitive activity. Insufficient use of special pedagogical approaches and the lack of individualized educational programs exacerbate the problem, leading to decreased interest in learning and slower social adaptation.

Proper inclusion of oligofrenic children in educational processes is not only pedagogically but also socially important. Scientific, systematic, and goal-oriented approaches are necessary to prepare them for independent life and societal integration. Therefore, it is crucial to study the cognitive development characteristics of oligofrenic children, identify challenges in education, and develop solutions. This article examines the concept of oligofrenic children, their levels of intellectual development, psychological characteristics, and educational challenges from a scientific perspective.

Methodology: The study used theoretical and practical research methods to explore issues related to oligofrenic children, based on scientific perspectives from special pedagogy, psychology, and oligophrenopedagogy. The analysis of scientific and pedagogical literature was employed to examine the concept of oligofrenia, its causes, levels of cognitive development, and psychological characteristics of oligofrenic children. Comparative analysis and generalization of sources were used to draw key conclusions. Observational methods were applied to identify difficulties in cognitive activity, speech, behavior, and learning. Data were analyzed using synthesis methods to ensure scientific validity. Pedagogical approaches were also assessed to evaluate their effectiveness in teaching and upbringing oligofrenic children. This methodology ensured achievement of research objectives, scientific substantiation of the topic, and practical conclusions.

Discussion and Results: Theoretical analysis and pedagogical observations indicate that the unique characteristics of cognitive development in oligofrenic children require special approaches in the educational process. Cognitive processes—thinking, memory, attention, and speech—develop slowly, making it difficult to assimilate learning materials. Therefore, traditional teaching methods alone do not yield sufficient results and may cause excessive stress and discouragement. Visual aids, repetition, and activity-rich lessons demonstrate high effectiveness. Individualized lessons increase students’ engagement, strengthen self-confidence, and positively influence social adaptation.

Early identification and referral to specialized educational institutions significantly enhance educational effectiveness. Special methods, including individualized programs, correctional lessons, labor activities, and daily life skill tasks, play a crucial role in developing independent functioning. Additionally, teachers’ knowledge, preparation, and empathetic approach directly impact the social and psychological development of children. Family and social support further contribute to personal development, facilitate social integration, and enhance self-awareness.

Conclusion: Research and analysis confirm that scientific, systematic, and individualized approaches are essential in working with oligofrenic children. Cognitive delays in thinking, memory, attention, and speech determine challenges in education. Specialized pedagogical methods—visualization, practical activities, repetition, individual approaches, and labor-based tasks—ensure high effectiveness. These methods enhance engagement, independent functioning, and social adaptation. Teacher expertise, family support, and societal conditions directly influence children’s development. Early identification, referral to special educational institutions, and individualized programs maximize developmental potential. Applying scientifically-based, individualized pedagogical methodologies not only improves educational outcomes but also ensures social adaptation and preparation for independent life. Continued research and development of effective methods in special pedagogy remain critical both scientifically and socially.

References:

V.S. Rakhmonova. Fundamentals of Defectology and Speech Therapy. Tashkent, 1991.

S.Sh. Aytmetova. Oligophrenopedagogy. Tashkent, 1996.

C.Sh. Aytmetova. Psychological Development Characteristics of Students in Auxiliary Schools. Tashkent, “Teacher”, 1984.

Sh.B. Akhmedov. Methodology for Teaching and Educating Oligofrenic Children. Tashkent: Teacher, 2018.

T.M. Boboev. Special Pedagogy and Corrective Education. Tashkent: Fan, 2020.

A.R. Karimov. Oligofrenia and Intellectual Development Disorders. Tashkent: Ilm, 2019.

Poetry from Mykyta Ryzhykh

І love you more than dried pineapple

death teaches us to read sugared lips

we die near the source from which sweet syrup flows instead of water

І love you more than

death is the dried body of my beloved

every time I stand by the bridge I remember that I can’t swim

I like to drown myself but every time I accidentally swim up but alas in vain

I love

I’m learning silence to drink silence

I teach you death

І love to remember the skin and pretty ass of my lover

my memory floats in a cemetery that is not able to live without graves

I can’t live a day without flowers

standing at the grave, I can not live a single day without flowers

these flowers are for you my love

I teach all birds to turn into stones

I am learning the wind and composure

I’m dying of thirst in the rain

I die when I realize that I am standing in a cemetery

I’m dying

I’m dying

***

the sky is for the birds

the sky is meant for mosquitoes

the sky is not meant for airplanes

heaven orally pleases military pilots

***

I fucked so loud that the wall burst

I moaned so loud that my veins burst

I didn’t hear the bombs fall

our fingers were intertwined during the kiss

semen washes away any blood

nightingales outside the window sing incredibly quietly

Poetry from Mesfakus Salahin

South Asian man with reading glasses and red shoulder length hair. He's got a red collared shirt on.
Mesfakus Salahin

The Love of a Colorful Envelope

‎I will live without love forever

‎Without you, I am a water lotus in you

‎Like a bumblebee l won’t look for flowers

‎My addiction has evaporated since then

‎The thorns pricking the soles of my feet

‎The blood cells will not touch you

‎I will not say, embracing the body of expectation-

‎I am only yours.

‎I won’t say like a grasshopper touching the sky –

‎The sky above your head is mine

‎The mind will not fly like a kite along the path, like a bird

‎I will walk like a waterfall

‎However, I will not look for footprints

‎I will not search for a lifetime

‎The love of a colorful envelope

‎My mind is incorporeal like a butterfly.

‎In this city, the game of the heart is forbidden

‎Love is traded according to necessity

‎Anyone is sold as they please

‎Walking naked time north and south

‎The past hangs on the wall of distance

‎The stranger becomes familiar.

‎I won’t ask anyone to tell me

‎The juncture of love

‎I have torn my heart

‎With the sword of barren love

‎I have never forgotten

‎I love flowers.

Poetry from Joeb

Peace and love


Peace is a natural attribute
Which merged with love solute
Invigorates life with heavenly flute
Make existence enthralling for eternal absoluteness.
Peace, I want every day and every middle night
Peace and harmony that spray like ray of light
Peace, I feel so great to live confidently on earth
With happy faces I saw a single day in good health


Love has a power for unification
Satiate mind for ultimate beautification
Complexes modified into normal condition
Pleasure takes hierarchical steps with great passion.
Love me little and I will love you more forever
Lovely days coming ahead let we be together
In dusk and dawn we think about our future
Our future blend with great saturated picture


Peace faces struggle to establish her existence
Ecstasy sprouts in negativity to realize its importance
The world is lived only to taste the nectar of peace
Sheltered in love branches and get divine bliss.
I serve you my wisdom and thought
To create things with peace & harmony that,
Will enrich the satisfaction of my people
And never relent and end with cripples.
Love is a cosy bonfire


Which invites peace in life desire
Spiritual source manifested in life situation
Splendid endeavour invokes heart palpitation.
One house and billions of loves flying in the top sky
When felt so glad and heart flabbergasting, but shy
Your heart is even purer and then clean,
And with everything you do, this purity is seen.


MOVE ON
Forget yesterday’s pain,
There is a pain in gain.

At the end of dark tunnel,
There is a light as full as the moon.
But sometimes walk along
With Torchlight,
Because it might not be a light
Cheer up and move on
Buckle up and goes on
Not everything ends in vain.


All the predicaments shall flit.
Road shall pave like a flat
And it shall be bright as light
With hope higher we shall flee.
As life move as the sky
Many thoughts I do lie
Believe has gone far away from them
Opportunity comes ones to them
And never think will happen to them
As I begin to start my journey
I stay in pains early Morning


Just to make myself feel comfortable
The time we have has durable


UNDO THE PAIN
I come to you in pieces
Since all I need is peace
Peace with my soul
Since my shoe sole is down to earth
And so worn out beyond repair.
Help me gather the pieces of my heart
I wanna make it whole again
Though it’s glassed
I believe it can be glued
Despite the visible cracks, it’ll be whole again.


All need is for you to undo the pain
The pain you caused while you walked out on me

While you lead me on as I followed blindly
Not knowing you’re walking me into a ditch
A ditch that would leave my limbs broken like bone chops.
Lift this burden, I plead,
Enough of this pain,
Cracked I was but now I’m shattered,
Battered and broken into pieces.
Before our paths crossed I was at peace,
Now you turn my once peaceful life to hell,
Now I live in pains and agony,
I wish we never met.


Lift the great burden now and let’s part ways peacefully,
Undo my pains now, tarry not and help me,
Fix me now dear, my soul is getting weak,
I’m getting frail and fragile.
I plead with you this day,
Undo this burning pain, so I can feel my limbs,
Come to my aid, my soul cries for help,
My all is almost drained,
Put my pieces in piece and let’s dwell peacefully once again.