A Poem Beginning With a Line By Walt Whitman

Do I contradict myself?

No, I don’t.

 

Hopeful Feathers

A blooming flower in a dying garden,

Is a blooming hope to the butterflies.

A sparkling river in a drying forest,

Is a sparkling hope to the wild lives.

A glowing moon in a darkening sky,

Is a glowing hope to the night lives.

A breathing life in a fighting ground,

Is a breathing hope to the worrying souls.

A warming fire in a freezing house,

Is a warming hope to the shaking souls.

A soothing heart in a fading world,

Is a soothing hope to the suffering hearts.

A gleaming light in an unending tunnel,

Is gleaming hope to the tiring eyes.

A floating feather in a sinking life,

Is a floating hope to the reaching hands.

A hope can come in any shape and colour,

If you trust yourself even in a stormy weather.

— Kushi Nanayakkara, Sri Lanka. 

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Kushi Nanayakkara is a Sri Lankan born poetess who brings nature, human experiences, and creativity together through poetry.

She studied Graphic Design/Information Technology before finding her way into poetry in 2020. Her work often revolves around themes such as nature, art, life, love, mind, death, philosophy, and social themes such as justice and humanity.

Her poetry was featured in literature websites in USA and India and newspapers in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Her poetry was also published in poetry anthologies and magazines in India, Iraq, USA and the Philippines. Her sincere wish is to inspire hearts to stay creatively conscious and continue refining her craft. 

The Zulfiya State Prize: Recognition of talented young women

Every society has moments when it chooses to tell its young generation: “Your talent matters. Your work matters. Your dreams matter.” For the young women of Uzbekistan, the Zulfiya State Prize has become one of the most meaningful symbols of such recognition. Named after the renowned Uzbek poet Zulfiya, the award represents not only an achievement but also an encouragement for talented girls to pursue education, creativity, science, culture, art, and social activity with confidence and determination.

Zulfiya was more than a poet. She became a symbol of dignity, loyalty, intellectual strength, and artistic devotion. Her poetry reflected love for her homeland, the beauty of life, the inner world of women, and the challenges and hopes of her time. Her literary legacy continues to inspire generations, and the state prize bearing her name carries this legacy into the lives of young women who are building their own paths.

The establishment of the Zulfiya State Prize was an important step toward recognizing the achievements of talented young women in Uzbekistan. The award is presented to girls and young women who demonstrate outstanding abilities and achievements in fields such as literature, culture, art, science, education, and social activity. In this sense, the prize goes beyond a traditional literary award. It recognizes talent in many forms and shows that the contribution of young women to society cannot be measured by a single profession or area of achievement.

For a young girl, recognition can be more powerful than it may initially seem. Behind every achievement there are often years of study, countless hours of practice, unsuccessful attempts, doubts, and moments when giving up may seem easier than continuing. A public recognition of that effort can become a source of new confidence. The Zulfiya Prize therefore carries not only an official title but also a powerful message: perseverance and talent deserve to be seen.

The significance of the award becomes especially clear when we consider the changing role of young women in modern society. Today, girls are not limited to one traditional path. They study foreign languages, conduct scientific research, write books, participate in international competitions, create artistic projects, develop social initiatives, and represent Uzbekistan on international platforms. Their achievements demonstrate that education and creativity can open doors far beyond the boundaries of one’s hometown or country.

Literature naturally holds a special place in the legacy of the Zulfiya Prize. Zulfiya herself demonstrated how poetry can become a voice of an entire generation. Her life and work remind young writers that literature is not merely about beautiful words. It is also about responsibility, observation, courage, and the ability to express emotions and ideas that others may struggle to articulate. A young poet who receives recognition in Zulfiya’s name is therefore not simply receiving an award; she is becoming part of a cultural tradition that values the written word.

However, the importance of the prize extends far beyond poetry. A talented young scientist, artist, teacher, athlete, or socially active student can also demonstrate the qualities that the award seeks to recognize: dedication, originality, discipline, and a desire to contribute to society. This broad understanding of achievement is especially important in a rapidly changing world, where creativity and knowledge are increasingly connected.

The prize also has a symbolic dimension. Zulfiya’s name represents a bridge between generations. The poet belonged to an earlier era, yet her work continues to speak to young people today. When a young woman receives an award named after her, it creates a dialogue between the achievements of the past and the aspirations of the future. The young recipient inherits not only a title but also a responsibility to continue developing her abilities and to become an example for those who will follow.

Perhaps one of the most valuable outcomes of such recognition is inspiration. A girl living far from the country’s major cultural centers may read about a young recipient of the Zulfiya Prize and begin to believe that her own dreams are possible. She may decide to write her first poem, enter a competition, learn another language, conduct research, or simply work harder at the subject she loves. In this way, one person’s achievement can inspire many others.

The award also encourages young women to see success not as an unreachable ideal but as the result of consistent effort. Talent may open the first door, but discipline, education, patience, and courage are what allow a person to move forward. The stories of talented young women who receive national recognition can therefore serve as powerful examples for the younger generation.

At the same time, recognition should not become the final destination. An award can mark an important moment in a young person’s life, but true achievement lies in what comes afterward. The most meaningful response to recognition is continued growth: reading more, learning more, creating more, helping others, and using one’s abilities for the benefit of society. A prize may place a name on a list of achievements, but only future work can give that achievement lasting meaning.

The Zulfiya State Prize is therefore more than a medal, certificate, or title. It is a reflection of society’s belief in the potential of its young women. It tells talented girls that their voices deserve to be heard and that their efforts can make a difference. It also reminds society that investing in young women’s education and creativity means investing in the country’s intellectual and cultural future.

In today’s Uzbekistan, where young people are increasingly connected with the wider world, such recognition has an additional significance. A talented Uzbek girl can now publish her work internationally, participate in global competitions, communicate with peers from different countries, and introduce Uzbek culture and language to foreign audiences. National recognition can become the beginning of an international journey.

Ultimately, the Zulfiya State Prize is not only about celebrating what a young woman has already achieved. It is about believing in what she may achieve tomorrow. Behind every recipient stands a story of effort, hope, talent, and perseverance. And behind every story stands a message to thousands of other girls: do not be afraid to dream, do not be afraid to create, and do not underestimate the power of your own voice.

Zulfiya’s legacy continues not simply because her poems are remembered, but because new generations continue to find inspiration in her name. Every young woman who strives for knowledge, creates something meaningful, and contributes to her community adds another page to that continuing story. The Zulfiya State Prize celebrates these young women—and, perhaps most importantly, reminds the country that the future can be written by those who dare to believe in their own potential.

Tursunboyeva Nigoraxon Abdumannob qizi was born on February 23, 2009, in Uzbekistan.

She is a graduate of the Is’hoqxon Ibrat Creative School. She is the winner of numerous international and national competitions and the author of two poetry books.

She is fluent in four languages and was admitted to university ahead of the usual schedule. In addition to writing poetry, she also writes prose and journalistic articles.

Preface to Lan Xin’s New Book Phoenix Nirvana

The Sacred Lan Xin: A Global Light Illuminating the Path of Women’s Awakening

Her Mission and Universal Great Love

By Eva Petropoulou Lianou

In the brilliant galaxy of human civilization, there are always certain souls who sail forward with mission and take universal love as their sail. Transcending geographical boundaries and breaking through cultural barriers, they bring warmth and awakening to the world. Lan Xin, a globally renowned cultural icon, is precisely such a sacred messenger who fulfills her mission with her life and illuminates all living beings with wisdom. Her new book Phoenix Nirvana is not only a treasure of growth dedicated to women around the world, but also a spiritual epic that carries the universal pursuit of humanity and conveys peace and boundless love.

Lan Xin serves as an essential bridge connecting Eastern and Western civilizations and spreading universal love and world peace. In recent years, she has stood on the international stage as a diverse cultural envoy, bringing Eastern wisdom and the power of female growth to the globe. As the opening author of the international poetry project Radiance of Women, and through cross-cultural exchanges and interviews across Europe, America and Asia, she interprets the infinite potential of women to the world, promotes the awakening and connection of global women, and practices the universal philosophy of “boundless love and peaceful coexistence” through steadfast actions.

Phoenix Nirvana, a work condensed with years of painstaking efforts, fully embodies her international vision, high-dimensional life wisdom and compassionate feelings. Free from condescending preaching, the book delivers sincere spiritual companionship. Beyond ordinary inspirational writing, it presents pure life awakening and wisdom refined through years of experience. She perfectly integrates the essence of integrity, mindfulness and righteous practice inherited from Dongba culture, the essence of traditional Chinese culture, Eastern philosophical wisdom and modern psychological concepts. Facing traumas from family origin, confusion in intimate relationships, and dilemmas in marriage management, she paves a clear path for women to transform from being defined by the world to becoming their true selves, and from external pursuit to inner awakening.

The precious value of this book lies in its transcendence of gender and regional limitations. For women, it is a key to awaken inner radiance, allowing every soul to understand that “you are born radiant and need not borrow light from others”. For all readers, it offers a sincere interpretation of self-worth and love, responding to every human being’s innate longing for fulfilment, freedom and happiness.

The nobility of Lan Xin lies in her ability to reflect the growth of all people through her own journey and drive social progress through female awakening. She is a contemporary guardian of Dongba civilization, a spiritual mentor for global women, an international cultural messenger bridging nations, and a warm power spreading peace and universal love. Every word of hers embodies compassion for all beings, tender care for women, and deep affection for the world. This positive, altruistic and loving spirit represents the most precious spiritual power of our era and supports the sustainable development of human civilization.

I firmly believe that Phoenix Nirvana will become an epoch-defining work influencing global readers. It will illuminate the path of growth for hundreds of millions of women, enabling every soul to bloom through awakening. Furthermore, it will serve as a vital bond for exchanges between Eastern and Western civilizations, allowing the seeds of love and peace to take root and sprout worldwide, and guiding humanity toward a better future through mutual understanding and spiritual nourishment.

Tribute to this cultural luminary who spreads universal love with her life and illuminates the world with wisdom!

May the radiant light of Phoenix Nirvana cross mountains, seas and time, shining eternally upon humanity!

Written in Aegean Sea, Greece

April 19, 2026

“Goddess of Wisdom” Lan Xin’s Inspirational Book Phoenix Nirvana Is Released

Published by the Intellectual Property Publishing House under the National Intellectual Property Administration, the newly‑released book focuses on women’s growth, marital relationships, family life and spiritual self‑awakening. Its gentle yet powerful writing relieves anxiety and overthinking, attracting widespread global attention and praise from leading writers across many countries. 

Long before its official full release, readers from China and overseas have been eagerly anticipating the book, which is regarded as the most outstanding publication on women’s growth for the year. Multiple international cultural institutions have sent formal invitations, planning a series of coordinated global promotional events and building an extensive international cultural‑exchange network.

The book offers a journey of self‑exploration for every individual. Its cover slogan strikes a chord with every reader: from a young girl to a confident woman, all experiences of growth, love, family and the passing of time build your inner glow. Every hardship polishes your inner light. You already possess light within yourself and need no‑one else to light your path, for you are your own sun. The ultimate goal in life is to embrace love, share light, and become the best version of yourself.

In modern‑day society, many people struggle with self‑doubt, low moods and complicated interpersonal relationships, losing their self‑value amid trivial daily affairs and persistent troubles. Drawing on decades of personal experience, professional psychological expertise and integrated Eastern‑Western cultural insights, Lan Xin completed this work. Rather than empty, formulaic motivational lines, the book addresses real‑life difficulties. It helps readers come to terms with past hurts, reconcile with themselves, build inner resilience and achieve thorough self‑improvement. Readers learn to find blessings within hardships, build self‑confidence and live fulfilling lives.

Numerous celebrated international authors have provided formal endorsements for the book.

Bai Gengsheng, Vice‑Chairman of the Chinese Writers Association, pointed out that Lan Xin’s book embodies the essence of world civilisations. Her practice consolidates the cohesion of the Chinese nation, and her vision echoes the ideal of a community with a shared future for mankind. Wherever Lan Xin sets foot, goodwill reaches every corner of the globe.

Eva Petropoulou Lianou, an internationally‑renowned Greek writer, remarked that Lan Xin draws on her personal life journey to reflect the growth of humanity and drives social progress through women’s spiritual awakening. Her writings carry compassion for all living creatures, sincere care for women and deep‑seated affection for the whole world. This benevolent, self‑less spirit constitutes one of the most precious spiritual treasures of our era, and an indispensable pillar supporting the long‑term advancement of human civilisation.

Fiori Picco, an internationally‑renowned Italian Writer, commented that this book will grow into an extraordinary masterpiece able to touch readers’ hearts throughout China and every land across the globe. Inspired by Lan Xin’s nurturing and caring nature and profound wisdom, we shall all become radiant spirits of Light and Love.

Dr. Maria Teresa De Donato, an internationally‑renowned American writer, stated that Lan Xin is admired globally for her boundless love and profound wisdom, widely known as the embodiment of love and beauty. Her legendary life experience and noble mission to spread universal love possess unique charm, encouraging global readers to explore her spiritual world.

Han Tingting, the book’s in‑house editor, shared her personal feelings. Every passage in the book originates from Lan Xin’s real‑life experiences and hard‑earned life lessons. She overcame hardships to gain inner peace and now shines brightly. Her writing never adopts a condescending tone, feeling just like a trusted friend. There are no ornate hollow words, only sincere advice accumulated through years of life. Editing this book also brought about self‑improvement for her. She hopes all readers can cast aside worries, forge ahead courageously and live wonderful lives.

Top‑tier artists finished the cover and interior illustrations. The front‑cover painting was exclusively created by the world‑famous artist Cai Zhenyuan. Combining Eastern and Western artistic styles, his works bring spiritual comfort and are highly favoured by art lovers worldwide. The inner‑cover painting and chapter illustrations are original works by Luo Qianxuan. The piece won a gold medal at the joint international art exhibition hosted by UNESCO and the Louvre Museum in France, and it is scheduled to be exhibited at the Louvre later. Four sequential paintings depict women’s growth: regaining strength after setbacks, accepting oneself to build confidence, moving bravely under the stars, and finally gaining unique radiance after rebirth. Every reader can see their own growth reflected in these images.

Each copy is accompanied by two exclusive hand‑signed hand‑drawn gifts designed by Lan Xin. The first item is a Dongba‑style art‑print entitled Lucky Sacred Tree, which is registered under the UNESCO Memory of the World Programme. The sacred tree is decorated with flower‑and‑fruit motifs inlaid with gold, silver, jade, agate and other precious stones, symbolising prosperity and good fortune. 

The bookmark adopts ancient surviving Dongba hieroglyphs, one of the world’s oldest living writing systems. It incorporates time‑honoured Dongba epics, ancient documents and traditional paintings. Ancient Dongba legends endow the bookmark with distinctive artistic charm, enabling this nearly‑lost intangible heritage to be passed down by way of published books.

About the Author

Lan Xin(Lanxin Samei), a world‑renowned cultural figure, distinguished international Chinese writer, poet and translator, winner of multiple international literary awards and global outstanding‑contribution honours, Global Ambassador of Universal Love and Peace, the sole female inheritor of UNESCO Dongba Culture, as well as Dean of Dongba Culture Academy and Lanxin Samei Academy.

This essay will explain one of the ideas I have, very dear to my heart now, that we could use the chemistry to solidify and ameliorate the plastics materials, in order to use them in many more applications than today they are. And that we could do so as per a new utility for our plastic waste widespread across the world.

*****

The solidified plastic component.

In the daily use of items made of metal—and often, around me, of that rust-proof metal that allows for longer service life and offers the properties associated with metals and alloys (specifically resistance to pressure or torsion—or, to put it another way, solidity, at least as far as I can observe)—a very simple thought occurred to me (which you might deem naive): many of these metal alloys, or metals rendered rust-proof through chemistry, could easily be replaced by other materials for the same purposes and with virtually the same utility—often, I believe, with even greater practical utility—and, from what information I gather, at a much lower cost! Specifically, they could be replaced by some of the plastic materials that modern chemistry enables us to create!

Indeed, given that we can now easily engineer very hard thermoplastics—producing materials like polycarbonates that are incredibly strong, rust-proof, and virtually impervious to water—and given that we can (or so I understand) readily make plastic materials that are nearly fireproof and highly heat-resistant, we have—easily and cheaply—a plastic component that could be molded for many applications usually reserved for “stainless metal”…

One could design components for door and window fittings. Interior and exterior cladding components—such as vehicle bodywork or fuselage sections—or even structural elements like armor plating and furniture (as is already common), and perhaps even machinery parts, such as engine components, drive shafts, or gears.

Also, a wide range of household tools—hammers, shovels, screwdrivers, kitchen mills, and many others.

And perhaps even structural or framing elements for construction?

The primary immediate benefit would likely be a reduction in production and assembly costs. Naturally, the chemical composition of such hard, durable plastic elements would need to be designed first; this would likely yield a range of formulas, allowing for the creation of materials ideally suited to specific applications.

An entrepreneur looking to cut production costs might well consider reclaiming plastic waste—melting and reprocessing it for this purpose. We are well aware of the vast quantities of plastic waste scattered across the globe or sitting in landfills. It was actually while discussing my project—using nets to capture plastic waste at river mouths—with friends that the idea struck me: we could easily derive new uses from this existing mass of composite plastic waste through minor modifications—specifically heating, adding chemical solutions, and employing processes such as the thermosetting of polycarbonate compositions (which could also be engineered to be fire-retardant).

This same approach could—perhaps for different purposes—be applied to various other materials, such as vitrified ceramics and, most notably, wood; after all, it is well understood that wood can relatively easily be made extremely hard and resistant to heat, fire, and wear. Today, there are stylish watches made of wood, featuring a lacquer finish that protects them from moisture and corrosion…

And if I mention here the processing of plastic materials—specifically to make them fire-resistant and exceptionally hard and durable through thermodynamic methods, notably in the form of “polycarbonates”—it is to reiterate a key point: plastic waste and scrap can be found all over the world. While not biodegradable in their raw state, once recovered and reprocessed—simply by melting them down and applying chemical treatments—they could provide a vast supply of potential industrial components or even manufactured tools of genuine commercial value.

This was my idea—admittedly very simple, and perhaps you might even consider it naive. It turns out that plastics—in the form of waste or scrap—are now deemed dangerous to our natural balance and the environment by scientists and environmental advocates alike. In my view, one could easily develop a business model based on reusing them for this purpose—one that would serve the cause of the environment while also delivering social and economic value.

Born in 1984 in Paris, France, Timothee Bordenave is a French author of fiction and essays, and a poet. He has published many books, about 25 to date, and his literary works have been translated in large parts to about 20 languages… He is also a visual artist, whose photographs and paintings have been shown in France and in various international locations.

He used to work directing libraries in Paris, and then nowadays he is a full time creative. Timothee Bordenave has received several awards and distinctions, from around the World.

My Homeland, Your Beauty Is Beyond Compare

Your streams flow with crystal, sparkling grace,

Your mornings glow with freshness and moonlit embrace.

Your springs hold a calm no words can replace—

My homeland, your beauty is beyond compare.

No other land possesses such radiant delight,

Such gentle melodies and songs so bright.

Soft breezes whisper from horizons in flight—

My homeland, your splendor is beyond compare.

Your birds sing in harmony with the bakhshi’s tune,

Your summers and winters inspire hearts to bloom.

Your mountains hide precious blue stones in their womb—

My homeland, your value is beyond compare.

Inherited from our fathers through the years,

Treasured by our mothers, held ever dear.

When we tell your history, every word grows sincere—

My homeland, your glory is beyond compare.

At dusk, diamond stars adorn the skies above,

By day, the golden sun shines with endless love.

Even heaven speaks of your beauty from above—

My homeland, your radiance is beyond compare.

I call your gardens a land of miracles untold,

Your mountains magnificent palaces of gold.

I kiss your sacred soil with reverence untold—

My homeland, your name is beyond compare.

My homeland! Your happiness is beyond compare.

Maxmatqulova Amira Alisherovna is an 11th-grade student at Secondary School No. 70 in Dehqonobod District, Qashqadaryo Region, Uzbekistan.

She is the author of the book Dream Notebook (Orzular daftari). In addition, she has contributed her creative works to the Long Live Our New Uzbekistan! (Yashna, Yangi O‘zbekistonim!) collection and several international anthologies.

She actively participates in various competitions and has achieved outstanding results. She is a recipient of the Governor’s Scholarship, a volunteer, and the Youth Leader of Dehqonobod District, playing an active role in the development and engagement of young people in her community.

Her main goal is to study journalism and become a professional who contributes to the development of society, as well as to become a recipient of the prestigious Zulfiya State Award. So far, she has won first place in the district stage of this competition.

Life Motto:

“Criticism, delays, and difficulties are the keys to success on the path toward achieving one’s dreams.”

You… Are the Homeland of My Heart

You… yes, you,

Whenever you are absent from me, my lady,

I kindle a lantern of longing

upon the balconies of the clouds,

and I send my heart away,

a little boat

sailing across every horizon,

making its way toward your eyes,

searching every path

through mist and silence.

You are the heartbeat of my life…

And in your absence,

minutes stretch into endless years,

and the night becomes

a desert of waiting,

or a sky veiled with drifting clouds,

where nothing blossoms

except your gentle name,

guiding my soul like a sacred light.

Then, when your voice whispers,

springs of radiance burst forth within my spirit,

and upon the eyelashes of my heart

the golden ears of joy and serenity begin to dance,

while the universe once more

chants love’s most beautiful names.

So remain…

just as you are:

a moon no passing years

can ever dim,

a promise no length of time

can ever betray.

For you alone

are the poem that never reaches its final verse,

the homeland of my soul,

and the harbor

where every wave of peace finds its rest.

Driss Boukili El Hassani

Morocco