.png)
Incite conversation, showcase diversity, and inspire growth
Reminisce Christmas
By Jasmin Rangel
For most children, Christmas is this magical celebration where Santa brings them the coolest toys and the sweetest candy. For me, Christmas time was like the world shifted into bright colors. The world turned into a beautiful frosty white blanket covered in warm bright lights. The Christmas season was the season that I most sought after during my childhood.
Christmas was the most fun during my elementary school years. As an elementary schooler, there is nothing more exciting than receiving that Christmas party sign-up sheet. The sign-up sheet was just a reminder of how close we were to Christmas. The teacher would randomly select an item for each student to bring and we would have to return the sign-up sheet with a check for “Yes, I will be able to bring the item” or “No, I will not be able to bring the item.” I always hoped that I was selected to bring a “cool item.” I didn’t want to get chosen to bring boring cups and napkins. I also didn’t want to get chosen to bring something difficult and expensive like bacon or pigs in a blanket. I wanted to be appointed for something like chips, cookies, or cupcakes. With these items I was able to make fun decisions. Decisions such as hot Cheetos or Doritos; or red cupcakes versus green cupcakes. Silly decisions like these were always important to me.
A trip to Walmart during the holiday season was exciting for a child. The trip always started with the ringing of the bells made by the jolly Salvation Army volunteers standing outside the door of the store. Stores were always filled with the same Christmas songs playing all around. The stores were always decorated with vibrant Christmas decorations. Of course, how can one forget the Christmas aisles that were set at the very front of the store. The aisles that were packed with Christmas presents and stocking stuffers such as candy and little trinkets. This is a place where my mom knew that she would have to have patience.
One of my favorite parts of Christmas parties in elementary school was the gift giving. I have always loved giving presents. I love genuinely thinking about what a person would enjoy receiving. So as an indecisive person, this task always took me forever. Therefore, my mom had to be patient when it came down to me choosing the perfect stocking stuffers for my classmates and a gift for my teacher. I must commend my mom for her willingness to let me take my time choosing little gifts that would be forgotten over the course of the winter break.
The Christmas party was always so exciting. You would think that kids would get bored of watching the Polar Express in their pajamas every year. However, it was always a fun and anticipated event. Passing out candy and trinkets to each other was always so chaotic and enjoying. Watching as the teacher received the same Walmart Christmas mug present was humorous and relieving. Because we knew every Christmas year would be the same while we were in Elementary School.
Christmas as a child was beautiful. Many of our worries at the time consisted of silly issues such as, picking out nice trinkets and the prettiest colored cupcakes. Many of us didn’t even notice about political, financial, physical, and mental stress during the holidays. I am thankful to those adults who allowed Children to focus on the silly issues and enjoy their holidays. I still love Christmas, but I wish that I could relive those innocent Christmas days.
Our First Girls' Night
By Marlo Gates
It was a warm then cold Saturday night, the girls and I decided to go to a club for Bri’s college graduation, this was the first time I hung out with Ariel, Bri, and Ashley so many thoughts raced through my mind as I was waiting for them to come and get me thoughts like: will they like me, am I dressed right, will I fit in. I walked to the kitchen and took a shot of R&R to calm my thoughts. As I walked into my room my phone rang, when I looked at my phone it was Bri calling, my heart raced as I answered the phone “hello” I said with excitement. “Hey Girl we here,” Bri said, ok cool.
I walked to my parent's room and said” I'm leaving”, ok be safe, do you have your keys said “dad.” “I do”. “Ok, have fun.” I walked to the door and closed it behind me, then heard loud music coming from the car. I opened the car door and Bri said “hey Marlo are you ready!” Sure. “Have you ever been to a strip club?” Bri asked. No, I haven't, have you? Me either I think it will be interesting. “Is Ashley coming?” Ariel asked,” I don’t know she said she meet us there” “Ashley is my cousin I think you will like her”
We finally made it to the strip club as we are sitting in the car the security person came up to the car and started flirting with Bri, “Why did we come so early we can’t even get in until 9:00” Bri asked Ariel “I didn't know” ariel laughed. you like edibles….Marlo!!! Yea I do, Bri handed me a gummy. This is good where did you get this from? My cousin gave it to me,It was pretty good.
it‘s now officially 9 pm and we can finally enter the club so we got out and it was cold it was crazy that just a few minutes ago it was warm outside. We were finally able to get in when we got in there were a lot of people in the club. It was very uncomfortable for me because covid-19 was still going on and no one had a mask on and it was packed.
Later that night Ashley finally showed up and we had a brief introduction and the show finally started, there were a lot of fine guys dancing and it was really fun to watch until they got close to me and then I felt very uncomfortable, but Ariel seemed to be really enjoying it. “I need a Drink!!” where is the Bar? I asked do you wanna come with me Ashley, sure Ashley laughed you'll want anything? Yes, please!!! Bri said. So, me and Ashley went to the bar and ordered our drinks. we ordered four margaritas and then continued watching the show.
It was about 1:30 and we all decided to leave because it was very overwhelming. When we left Ariel, Bridjae, and I decided to get something to eat, I was trying to tell South Dallas after 10 pm isn’t but they insist it to go to jack in the box down the street from the club, as we were driving up a crackhead was waving at us “just ignore it” I said at this I was convinced that the gummy me and Bri ate have hit, as we were pulling up to the drive-in monitor the crackhead started running up to the window, Oh My God!! Oh, My Guy!! Go! Go! Go! Bri said with fear and we sped out that drive barely making it without hitting anything. I was laughing so hard in the backseat I could barely breathe, “told you” is their something closer to your house Bri asked is their a Taco Bell near you? Yes I said still laughing. We headed to Taco Bell near my house where it was safer. We pulled up to the drive thur in ordered out food then, we parked to eat Bri said I need some more sauce and this happened about 3 times. Throughout that who trip back to my house we just kept laughing.
The point of this creative non- fiction is to just be aware of your surrounding no matter how out of it you are. Also, when going out always be with friends not only because it’s fun but because it's safe, “NEVER GO ALONE!” and always remember “nothing good can happen after 2AM, Just go home.
A Turtle's Journey
Natalia Villa
Relying on my memories, I recall growing up with my mom and siblings as we moved from place to place. Just the five of us with no way out of having to run from constant abuse from my dad, facing bullying in almost every school we moved to, and even going through some days with no food or a home. It isn’t an easy subject to tell, of course, its far worse to consider it a reality but I know that reality is something we all must face. Even if its within ourselves. However, I have decided that my world would revolve around what I choose it to be, and I chose to think of myself, my reality, as a fragile animal, one that faces many threats and obstacles throughout its journey. A journey that allowed me to learn many lessons that have shaped me into the person I am.
As a defenseless turtle that grew up not knowing how bad things were in the world, how innocent it was to the reality that is other beings, it was born quite happy. Its only job as a newborn was to exist, to be what it was born to be, a turtle. The turtle grew happy for a while, surrounded by its family that protected it from harm. It enjoyed being in its cozy home where it could grow up to be a strong and kind turtle. It would go out and eat pieces from the fallen apples of nearby trees, gleaming of how life was better than it imagined. The turtle returned home one day to find its home was wiped out by a dark matter that prevented it from being able to step inside of it. The home that it once enjoyed, that it spent days upon days sheltering in to maintain itself safe and warm now drowned out by dark, sticky oil left in the sea. The devastated turtle had to find another home, another sanctuary to feel safe in where it won’t be in danger. The turtle had learned that day that nothing good ever lasts.
Along with its family, it climbed a lonely desert that went on for miles with no water in sight. No food to eat, no home to stay in. Where it encountered scorpions much bigger than it. Scorpions that followed it every mile and would pick and prod at its thick shell until they damaged a section of its back as if trying to get to its body to cause pain. Never had the turtle seen or felt the horrible things the scorpions have been doing to it. “Why do you hurt me?” the solemn turtle asked, and they simply clicked their pincers and responded, “because it makes us laugh.” Soon, the turtle had learned that there are venomous beings out there that laugh at the pain of others.
The torture continued a few miles out when suddenly a big hawk appeared from the sky and scared the scorpions away. Amazed, the turtles looked up to their savior and let out a breath of relief that they were finally safe. Far from the truth, the hawk flew closer to the turtle and began taking its family one by one. The turtle didn’t know where but cried out for its family as it was left all alone in the heat of the desert. The loneliness began to overcome the saddened turtle while its joy and innocence was no longer there. The hawk had finally returned to the turtle, gawking at its misery with such satisfaction that its laugh penetrated the holes of its shell. “Why did you take my family?” the defenseless turtle asked, and the hawk flapped its wings and responded, “because I wanted to.” Soon, the turtle had learned that there are powerful beings out there that do harm because they can.
With no family at its side, the turtle began walking out in search for its family through a swampy lake. Going through shallow waters and wet soil tough to walk past, the lonely turtle wished for a friend. Any friend that could come and help it find its family, accompany it on its isolated journey. Miles and miles alone, the turtle came upon a beautiful butterfly. Its wings shaped attractive irises and sparkling shapes that distracted the naked eye. Such beauty that pulled the turtle closer to it as the butterfly flew closer to the solemn turtle. It said nothing as it remained by its side every step of the way, not addressing it or answering the turtle even if it began and continued to tell it stories of its journey. A day came when the turtle tripped and fell into a hole causing tears to fall from its eyes. The friendly butterfly flew down to it and the turtle let out a sigh of relief as it was going to be saved. However, the beautiful creature only sucked on the tears of the fallen turtle as the turtle continued producing the salty water that the appealing creature feasted on. Betrayed, the turtle asked, “Why do you not help me?” to which the butterfly responded, “because I only wanted your tears.” As the satisfied monarch flew away, the forsaken turtle had learned that there are selfish beings out there that only hang around to benefit from your pain.
All hope had seemed lost, with no family, no friends to aid the defenseless turtle that was stuck in a sinking hole. Then suddenly, a hand reached out and pulled the turtle from its slow death and set it on a sturdy plain. Expecting to be thrown, eaten, or picked on, the turtle braced itself only to feel a caress on its broken shell and looked up to see a human smiling back at it. Then the turtle had learned another important and valuable lesson: that not all beings out there are the same. I, the turtle, have learned to trust in those who help others and themselves despite the cruelty that is other people.
The Winner of An Unforgettable Weekend
Jessica Lozano
October 4, 2022
It is a day like any other day. Sitting in a classroom day to day is not typically ideal, but it is a routine that will soon lead to the determination of my future. So there, I sit, and I listen to my classmates present their research. My phone screen lights up indicating that I received a notification. As I glance at my lit-up phone upon my desk, I see a text message from a phone number that I do not recognize. That seems odd. I grab my phone and unlock it to be able to read the message. What? This cannot be real! I, Jessica, have won a contest to be able to see some of my favorite music artists at the Austin City Limits Festival? And it is a VIP experience? But I never win anything, how could this be? I cannot help but zone out of reality and stare at my phone screen re-reading the words that appear. My only question is, is this really real? Is it a possible fraud? Only way to find out is to contact the source, the company who is holding said contest.
October 5, 2022
Well, it looks like it is true. I have won this nationwide contest. I cannot help but be excited. My mind will not shut off and feels like it is running at over a million miles per hour. All I can think about is the options of what to wear. My cousin’s girlfriend has agreed to go with me, considering it is a VIP experience for two people. Telling her and my cousin the news was so exciting. They were so happy for me. I love my family and how supportive they are. All I can do now is count down the days. Only about a week left to go. I am really getting anxious and cannot help but smile as I recap on the greatness of this year thus far. This is by far one of the greatest events that has occurred. Life has been so good to me so far it almost feels too good to be true. What could really go wrong now? Life has been perfect!
October 11, 2022
Yes, life was perfect. Yes, I felt on top of the world, but right now, it feels like my heart has been ripped from my chest. I feel like a piece of me has been taken away from me. When you love someone who is not here to stay, this is the feeling you get. A piece of me feels like it died, and I feel numb. The meaning of happiness has left my vocabulary. The fact that he is not mine to keep is what hurts most. Where did life go wrong? I was in a happy and healthy relationship. He cares about me, and I know this is for the best, but I want him to stay. My boyfriend of a year and a half has decided that he misses his hometown, and he wants to go back. I want him to stay and be with me, but I also want him to be happy. If his happiness means I must lose him, then that is what must happen. The festival is in three days, and now I do not even want to go. This contest win is just what I need to mend my heart. It is not just about opportunity now; it is about self-care and living fully.
October 12, 2022
I feel empty. Still numb to any feeling that is not related to sadness. How am I going to get through the rest of the school day? Luckily, I have good friends who are willing to keep me distracted from the thought of my loss. I cannot help but think about what will happen to me during the nights, when I am alone with my thoughts. The feeling of sorrow is one I truly do dread. Being someone who overthinks everything in life does not help this situation either. This festival cannot come any sooner. Only a few more days now. I realize I do need this more than I thought. What else do I have to lose after all?
October 14, 2022
The day has finally arrived. This week has been a huge roller coaster of events. I need to set aside the hurt and try to enjoy myself now. Remember, self-care is the key. I am glad that I am not alone during this time either. I am glad I will have a friend by my side, my cousin’s girlfriend. I know she will help me keep my mind off the hurt during this event. On our way we go, off to Austin.
We have arrived. I cannot lie, I do feel some of the excitement I had previously has sunk itself back into me. I need to get ready now. What makeup idea should I use? What should I do with my hair? Which outfit should I wear today? I feel like myself again. I feel happy for the first time in a few days. Austin is where I need to be right now. This is where memories will be made. I turn on some music and start getting to work on my chosen appearance for today’s event.
We are now at the festival and all I have to say is wow! I have been here before, but never like this. I can feel myself coming alive. The music fills the speakers of each nearby stage that my friend and I pass. We are going to see SZA tonight. The music starts, and I forget about my problems. I forget about life back home and the events I encountered up to this day. I am going to be free from worries tonight. I am going to be free from everything. I am going to live.
October 15, 2022
Today is going to be one of my favorites. I get to see one of my favorite bands, Wallows, in a premium viewing area. I have myself together and ready. Makeup is done. Hair is done. Outfit is on. I am ready. No thoughts in mind other than getting to the festival and doing everything of the day before, all today.
We are here at their stage. We are so close to the stage I cannot believe it. As the band members walk onto the stage, I cannot help but scream in excitement. They are right in front of me! Right now, I am living in this moment to the fullest. I am letting loose and being myself. I need to take this all in. Each lyric leaves my lips freely. Each song is another excuse to sing at the top of my lungs. The lead singer walks up to the catwalk on the stage playing his guitar, and he throws his guitar pick into the air as the song finishes. It is a few feet away from me. As I stare at it laying on the ground, the photographer picks it up and starts to walk toward me and the other people near me in the crowd. She extends her hand out with the pick in her hand waiting for someone to grab it. Without thinking, I grab it so fast, I do not even realize. I actually got it! I got the guitar pick! I cannot believe it! Words cannot even describe the excitement I am feeling!
Today is progressing. My friend and I have finished the Wallows concert. We are VIP, it is only fitting to check out the VIP section now, right? Yes, it is nice. Yes, the food and drinks are free. What else would anyone expect? I, however, just still cannot believe I am here. I do not want this to ever end.
October 16, 2022
Today is the final day of the festival weekend. We have arrived and are about to see the band called Paramore. I am going to live today like I did yesterday and the day before, freely. The music starts, and again, I lose myself in it. I tune out reality. I realize now why I do this. I have always had a strong love for music since before I can even remember. Music finds its way into my body and mind, and I cannot live without it. I sing the lyrics loudly to each song that I know that begins to play. This is what I need.
Now, we find ourselves at an artist’s stage who goes by the name of Kacey Musgraves. Most people in the crowd have on bracelets that light up with each song that plays. The color changes depending on the mood of the song. Her music begins and as I hear her sing, my bracelet lights up. I begin to sing her lyrics with every ounce of emotion that each song brings. I do not know what is coming over me, but I am starting to get emotional. I start to relate the songs to my life back home. I am overcome with huge waves of emotion, and I cannot stop it, nor do I want to. This is the freest I have felt throughout this whole trip, and it is so unexpected. I can feel myself opening up. This is the self-care I was seeking for.
On our way home, I cannot help but recall all the events that took place this weekend and smile. All events leading up to this point were unexpected. All that I experienced, both good and bad, had an impact on me. They changed me. It was a roller coaster ride nonetheless, but sometimes that is needed. All I know is, though life had many surprises in store for me, I was the winner of an unforgettable weekend.