Hopeless Soul- Theme Essay

Author's Note: This essay was written to show that the universal theme, losing hope, is found in the novel Breathless, by Lurlene McDaniel. Additionally, I also tried to show how this theme is related to other books as well. 

Hope only lives in the soul if you allow it. The summer before Travis Morrison's senior year of High School, he doesn't need any hope, because he already has everything he needs. When you're the best diver in the state, it's hard not to be cocky and proclaim you have it all. Besides, what could ever go wrong? When one diving stunt sends him to the hospital, Travis loses all the hope he never knew he had. Throughout the novel Breathless, by Lurlene McDaniel, the universal theme of losing hope is threaded between the pages; the theme in Breathless is similar to many other novels like: Virtuosity and The Secret Life Of Bees. 

Travis, the main character in this novel, was on cloud nine. He had the girl, the athleticism, and confidence was shown in the way he walked. Diving was his life, he simply couldn't live without it. For, one day his confidence level peaked and had the courage to dive off a towering cliff into a lake. As soon as Travis jumped he heard a snap in his leg and knew that his jump was a careless decision. What he did not know was that from this jump he was going to find bone cancer in his leg. Discovering this was an eye-opener, but he was extremely determined he would beat cancer, and there was no doubt in his mind that he wouldn't dive back into the water again. As he was thinking about his cancer, Travis tells himself, "I'm determined to do it a whole lot quicker." Travis thought he would never give up. 

After some time with that determination and hope on board, Travis was informed that his leg needed to be removed in order to clear the cancer from his body. Although he fought the doctors not to do so, he knew that his chances of diving again were one in a million now, even chances of the cancer spreading were quite high at this point. More hope was lost and Travis was now taken away from the one thing that he has only known in his life, diving. "My throat clogs up when I think about not looking down on pool water again with judges and teammates watching." Travis is mournfully convinced that he will never return to his regular life. The pain in his body is not only physical now, it's emotional as well; all the more reason to just give up.

With the power of losing hope overtaking his body already, there was another diagnosis revealed on Travis's case that lead to even deeper misery. Doctors found in his body that the cancer spread to his lungs. In addition to the pain before, it's now agonizing to move a muscle. However, Travis doesn't want to be hooked up to a thousand different machines, he wants to die naturally without a robot force feeding him and breathing for him. Until he had a seizure and was unable to control where he was taken to. Finding himself exactly where he did not want to be, Travis had a stroke from the seizure and can't say a word in his defense. His friend feels frustration while thinking, "He's alive- a machine breathes for him, another monitors his heart; another cleans his kidneys." Practically dead, Travis' friends know what he wants, and so does his sister. When one early morning, before the sun rose, Travis closed his eyes and escaped from his limp body.

While understanding the suffering and lost hope that Travis was dealing with, don't forget the numerous other novels that incorporate the power of losing hope theme as well. Similar to Breathless, the novels Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez, and The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd both had a theme of losing hope throughout the book, though in a more particular perspective. Within the covers of Virtuosity, the main character, Carmen, lives with a strict mother. Over time, Carmen learns to give up hope in pleasing her mother and moves out of the house. Linked to the theme in Breathless, Travis lost hope in his life. Lastly, in the book The Secret Life of Bees, one of the characters, May, gives up hope on looking for the good in the world. She was struggling to survive without her twin sister who was practically her backbone, therefore all hope was lost and she committed suicide to see her twin once again. Even though this isn't the main concern throughout the novel, the author does show the theme of giving up hope in this addition to the story. Mirrored to Travis' life, he simply wanted to reunite with his longing for diving. 

Recognizing the similar novels, remember that losing hope is a universal theme that's found in numerous books, like Breathless. Travis displays how effortless it is to surrender to the cancer he has. All he ever had disappeared, and Travis couldn't find the hope to replace the pain. Hope only lives in the soul if you allow it; Travis didn't allow hope, but gave up.

Fighting the Grave- Prediction Piece

Author's Note: Here is a prediction piece I wrote, and in the beginning is what I think will happen after the novel Beautiful Malice by Rebecca James, sort of like an epilogue. After the epilogue is a small essay explaining what I did in the text and why I did so.

As I sink my feet into the cool sand, ocean waves lap over my toes. I'm all alone, watching the sun be reborn another day with it's beautiful crimson red hands extending my way over the Pacific. Wrapped around me are my blue pajamas and white bed sheet that I tore from my bed to come out to the dramatic seaside. Off into the distance, near my welcoming home, I hear the delicate little voice of my sweet Sarah, "Mommy!" She shoved her thumb into her mouth, while the other arm is occupied by hugging her blanket. Sarah's tiny feet splashed through the sand coming towards me.

"Mommy, what are you doing out here?"

"Just enjoying the sunrise sweetie," I explain, "Isn't it beautiful?"

"Yeah it is, but daddy's making breakfast now. You comin'?"

"Yes, I will be right there, okay honey?"

"OK," Sarah concludes and strides back to the house.

Everyday I'm reminded from the simple conversations with Sarah, like the one we just had, how thankful and blessed I am to have her. Even though I know Sarah is her own unique self, she significantly reminds me of how my little sister, Rachel, used to be. With Sarah by my side, I feel like she is a sign from God to give me a fresh start to accept the past, while molding my future into something I've always wanted. Perhaps it wasn't only Sarah being born, but myself too; there is nothing more I would want for the loving family that I was saved with. I digest these thoughts as I walk on Sarah's imprinted footsteps she left behind. 

Roughing my feet against the wooden steps, I continue to climb home. Once I open the back doors, a warm hug of cinnamon and thick maple syrup invites me in. "Mom! It's your favorite," Sarah smiles excitedly like she's more thrilled for me to eat breakfast than herself. She's too cute, with her messy hair, glowing eyes, and all. I feel a smile tickle my cheeks and I can't help but let out a brief laugh, "why, yes it is Sarah." My husband, Robbie, dished me a plate with two perfect pieces of french toast surrounded by sticky maple syrup and powdered sugar sprinkled over, just how I like it. 

Shoving pieces into my mouth, I reawaken the feelings of Alice and how soulless she was. These random occurrences of her popping into my mind need come to an end. Some parts of me regret not going to her funeral, you know for not seeing with my own two eyes that she's positively dead. Maybe this is why she reappears in my mind too often. From the desperate desire for all of this mess to be over and done with, I decide it's time for me to visit Alice Parrie's grave. My thoughts must have really reflected how I appeared due to the inquisitive stares I received from Robbie and Sarah.

"What's on your mind, Katherine," Robbie asks.

"Oh, it's nothing," I respond, "but I think I'm going to take a drive to clear my head this morning. I'll talk with you later in the afternoon."

"Alright, lucky for me, I get to spend some quality time with my buddy Sarah," Robbie understands and gives Sarah a tight squeeze.

Acknowledging that I am leaving, I nod and snatch my car keys from the counter heading out the front door. The soft summer breeze whispered into my ears things I can't explain, but is clear in my brain. How I'm making the right decision and everything will go as planned. Sliding into the car, I cranked up the air conditioning since sweat is starting to build up in the creases of my body. Assuming I would eventually visit Alice's grave, I memorized every turn and swerve I would come upon. From the city lights, to an off-road covered in trees branching over my car as I drove; the drive is diverse. Rocks crumbled beneath my tires on the beaten path as I parked the minivan. When I pushed my door open, I noticed the sun higher in the sky staring down at me. When I curved around the car, I could clearly examine the shape of the graveyard. 

Alice was buried in a shadowed graveyard containing no more than twenty tombstones. Placed in the front row, farthest to the right, was a man named John Kendrick who died in 1982. The year of each death increases as I move from one row to the next. Finally, I come to the very last row to a tombstone that is more clean-cut with shriveled up roses lying at the foot of stone. A frosty patch of air cuts through my skin as I read in my head "Alice Perrie". Those two chipped in words make my heart stop, and I can feel the blood rush from my face to the pit of my stomach; creating a knot that makes me want to regurgitate my breakfast. I'm not one to believe in ghosts or anything, but the chill in the air doesn't reflect the summer's day I was sweating over moments ago. Alice's hideous spirit lingers in the air, and I wanted no more of it.

"Alice," I firmly state, "I don't want you in my life. You killed parts of me that were so important, and I'm sure you knew that. Don't hate me for a second, because, I have done nothing to you or your family while yours destroyed mine for the longest time. I had to change my name, Alice, because of your brother and what he did, and I learned quickly that you were no different. I can imagine that you are expecting an answer from me to the question that you were oh-so-concerned about. So here it is," I say choking back tears, "I am not happy that my sister died, I loved her for the death of me and it was not my fault." My voice crackles as I add one last comment, "Oh yeah, Alice, forget me. Forget that I ever lived on this earth. I don't want to feel you chasing me anymore. You got to follow me when you were alive and now your time is over and done with, leave me alone and enjoy your time living in the dirt."

Finding myself gasping for breath, and I realize that I don't think I even took a breath while spilling out my most dragging secrets. Although, nothing happens. No more cold spot, no more heaviness inside, and no more regret. My mascara is smudged, no doubt, but overcoming this makes me lighter. Alice weakened me more than I could ever decipher. Furthermore today, I feel as though she officially died off and I didn't know what to do with myself, having this burden lifted. I ran my fingers across the top of the stone feeling the small icy ridges vibrate beneath my fingertips. Thereafter, I turned and walked away not taking one glance back, except one up to the sun, seeing that it was hanging directly above my head. For one thing I know, I will never return to this place again.

Closing the car door, I notice that I'm still wearing my blue pajamas. My teeth shine as a grin rises upon my face. "Let's get outta here," I say to myself laughing. Starting the car engine, I pull off onto the road that escorts me home. Before long, I open my front door to the remaining scent of french toast and an embrace from Sarah. She clung onto my shirt and jammed her face into my stomach saying, "Mommy, what took so long?" Responding carefully, I look up to Robbie standing in the hall and say, "Oh I just got caught up with a few things. Are you two ready for lunch?" There was a quick response of yes, so I began making some soup with crackers. 

While making lunch, I absorb the day so far. The sun rises and falls as days go by, and that won't change. Whereas, if I glimpse up with another perspective, maybe that will make all the difference. I begin to recall the visit to Alice's grave, the poisonous response of it all. Having the grave out of the sun made me feel like she brought this upon herself, you know, being in a shadowy area for the rest of her life. Despite the sickening emotion that this evokes, I am content because somehow I know that this is the last time Alice will ever appear in my mind. Here and now, my smile beams across the stove top and I stir in the final ingredient of my soup, love.

---

Shown here is a prediction as to what will happen next after the novel Beautiful Malice by Rebecca James. There are many things that I would like to point out that I did specifically in this piece to show the development and change that happened or happens through what I wrote. Representing these things through the motions Katherine goes through, the way her mind thinks differently, and the karma of Alice in the end. 

Notice how the piece starts out having her watch the sun as it rises and throughout the piece, she looks up at the sun. What I am trying to get across from constantly saying this is that she watches it rise as her fears disappear and her spirits are lifted with the sun. Additionally, I have her living on the beach because it represents her always being with her almost-fiance boyfriend, Mick, since he died in the ocean and personally I think a beach represents fulfillment and happiness which she has now that Alice is gone. With that, I have her walk in Sarah's footsteps in the sand because it is representing her growing as Sarah grows, too. Also I have her married to Robbie who was a extremely loyal friend to her in the past when Alice was against her. Furthermore, he was neglected many times in the book and now Katherine loves and cares for him so he finally has something he's always wanted. 

With looking at the insight of her motions in play, her thoughts are just as important. In the beginning of the epilogue, I have her standing alone, keeping herself to her thoughts, but it is mysterious as to what she is thinking deeply in her heart other than how wonderful the sunrise is. Whereas in the end, as soon as she visits Alice's grave and says a few words, her mind is more open to things than they ever were previously. Moreover, in the piece, she explains how she thinks parts of Sarah remind her of her younger sister who died named Rachel, whom she loves both dearly. With this she's delightfully welcoming Sarah and Robbie closer into her life, along with the love-filled soup.

While considering Katherine's thoughts, Alice's fate is vital as well. Alice always would follow Katherine when she was alive and in this piece it explains that Katherine believe she's followed by Alice when she's dead through cold spots. Although as soon as Katherine "speaks" to Alice at her grave the cold spot immediately vanishes and Katherine is left alone. Alice is also destined to be in a shadowed graveyard with no sunlight seeking through, symbolizing no happiness or contentment after she died. Lastly, she was left out of mind to Katherine after the final thoughts, in other words, she was forgotten. 

From mental to physical actions, during the whole piece different details were added with individual purposes. Whether it be involving the horrendous Alice, or her beloved daughter, Katherine always has a story to tell. Bear in mind, what I did for the epilogue helped display my point I was reaching for. Katherine can watch the sun rise each day after a hard life thus far, and she still looks forward to the positives to come.

Bruiser- Character Development

Author's Note: Bruiser by Neal Shusterman was an incredible novel about overcoming major struggle. This is a analysis of the main character, Brewster, and how he develops throughout the story. 

Sometimes I find myself waking up with bruises, but their origin is unknown to me. The main character in the novel Bruiser by Neal Shusterman, Brewster, wakes up with these kind of bruises all the time, almost daily. Occasionally, it may be more than a bruise, perhaps a fracture in his arm. Why? Well, Brewster can steal without the desire. Although, he doesn't steal groceries or pointless toys, he steals wounds from those he loves. Brewster was born with this disadvantage and he will live with it forever. The catalyst, Bronte in this story helps him through his struggles that he goes through and helps him turn into a more loving person, rather than filled with forced and unwanted resentment. This book helps explain his overcoming of the power and how to control it in order to make friends, undo a relationship with an abusive and alcoholic relative, and truly waking up from the coma bringing a promising future.

 

From Brewster's many transformations throughout the novel, one aspect was befriending people. Starting the book, Brewster was known as the person "most likely to receive death penalty" due to him not wanting people to look to him as a friend. He wanted to shut out the world so there was no chance for him to produce additional wounds. Throughout the book, Bronte helps him realize friends are for the greater good, no matter the pain. Bronte promised to him that she, and others who know of his condition, would learn to want their pain so his suffer would be limited. Her friends become his friends and his heart grows as if it's the roots of grass in the springtime. For instance, Bronte was comprehending, "Brew was embraced by my friends and was finally able to feel a part of a circle larger than just his immediate family." Notice how the quote said: "finally", and said his only friends in the past were his "immediate family". If Brewster didn't have Bronte, he wouldn't have known to open up to friends, let alone meet the charming companions that Bronte has.
 

Now that Brewster is beginning to make new acquaintances, his eyes open up a little wider and he realizes that loving his uncle needs to be abandoned. Uncle Hoyt caused Brew excruciating pain without even laying a finger on him. In this story, Brewster's brother, Cody, was referred as a "rag doll" because that's who Uncle Hoyt would aim for; it is him who takes the real hits. "My uncle. Who left me battered. Yet never laid a hand on me..." With time, Bronte taught Brew how unacceptable his uncle's actions are and he learned this in just in time. Uncle Hoyt's drinking problem was outrageous one day when Brew returned from school. Without even entering the house he could feel the pressure on his chest building up; Brew sensed the sinfulness of Uncle Hoyt. Immediately when he saw him, he was aware of what was going on, he was having a stroke. Changing wasn't just an option now, it was a life or death situation at this point. Throughout this branch of the novel, Brew overcomes an immeasurable mountain, he finds strength to tell Uncle Hoyt how abhorrent he is. "Can I find it in my heart to NOT find it in my heart? I dig down, down, down, to make the numbness taking root in my body invade that place in me that still cares about you and purge it so that I can leave you," convincing himself it's not worth dying over Uncle Hoyt. 

 

Stronger than ever now by overpowering his uncle, farther along the lines of the book, Brew trips into a coma from saving Bronte before she drowned.  I'm convinced that this coma he's in is more of a symbolic reference. For instance, he isn't completely transformed yet. Despite the fact Brew woke up from his coma on the very last page of the book, there is no doubt that he has developed from the foreshadowing due to what Bronte's brother offers Brew through thought, "So open your eyes, Brew. Open your eyes, and talk to us. We'll keep our pain, but I promise we'll share our joy. Talk to us, Brew . . . because we're finally ready to take your call." This is letting us know, not only that his past has been tough, but his future will be bright with this family along side him. From this promise, Brew will gain an insight on the world filled with more pleasure than before. 

Bruiser's story line is weaved through another novel titled Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez. Within each novel, the main characters both have an intense guardian. The protagonist, Carmen, has a mother that is incredibly controlling and demanding because she wants to live through Carmen and have her be a violinist that the entire world knows. Feeling as Brew did toward his Uncle, Carmen wanted to breakout of her house and decide for herself what she is and isn't passionate for and doing this all while her mother is unaware. Eventually Carmen meets her catalyst, Jeremy, who leads her away from her mother and into his arms. Nearing the end of the book, Carmen is given the option to be content and do what suits her. Reflecting back towards Bruiser, Brew has the option in the conclusion as well to decide what his heart is really set for.
 

Virtuosity has an extremely similar design to Bruiser in which both characters changed dramatically. Essentially, Brew changed by creating new friends, separating from his Uncle Hoyt, and lastly awaking from a symbolic-type coma all through Bronte. Once Brew's eyes are opened, it is that much easier for him to see the opportunities that his life is welcoming. If it wasn't for the catalyst, Bronte, Brew would have been dead and his life would be over. Although, with her, doors are opened and his future is glimmering with everlasting hope.

Worshiped Men Of America

Author's Note: This piece is based off of the Patriot's Pen prompt "If you had a opportunity to talk with the Founding Fathers, what would you say?". I wrote my essay in letter form to make it seem like I actually did get the opportunity to talk with them. In the essay, I identified the main points I wanted to get across to them while having conversation. Note that this draft is not under 400 words, I have another draft that suites the requirements of the Patriot's Pen rules. Hope you enjoy!

Dear Founding Fathers,

What an honor I have to talk to Founding Fathers like yourselves. Fellow men, you have created a declaration that gave our country a start to a long journey. The Declaration of Independence isn’t just another novel, it is one of those documents that is held in a glass case surrounded by millions of red beams and hidden cameras ridden up the walls. Important people to America should be the only ones looking at this document. As for me, well I’m just a teenage girl in a small town, I have no business even creating conversation with any of you! Therefore, this opportunity is gold, and I am not about to waste it. What I would like to get across to all of you today is how highly I think of what you, Founding Fathers, did. Creating this country didn’t just come naturally, it came from endless work and dedication to America, and it is recognizable still to this day.

Defining work is laborious within itself, even for the dictionary. Notice if you look up the word ‘work’ in the dictionary, there is a long list of options work can be defined as. What doesn’t appeal to my eyes when I read this is the definition of work that is what you, Founding Fathers, did for us. Known to me, and hopefully the world, the definition would be complete commitment and loyalty to ensure our country is best off for the next few centuries, and that is only just scratching the surface. Founding Fathers, you all started with practically nothing at all, and what you came up with is not a rough draft, it is the foundation of our country. Organization was a key factor in this document. For example, presidency, this is not a simple thing. There are so many things that can be discussed about over that topic, and you created the basis of it.

Not only did you men create the groundwork of our lives and lives to come, but the Founding Fathers, or yourselves, aren’t forgotten. Some of your pictures are touched daily by Americans while paying for groceries, others attend schools that live under your name, maybe even some of you have a city named after you! These are symbolic remembrances of what you have provided our country with. Currently, John Hancock is a synonym for signature, Washington is a place where the president lives, Madison is a Capital to my home state, and the cities Franklin and Jefferson are not too far from here. Furthermore, John Adams is now a movie, Hamilton is a school district, and lastly- not that I’ve tried it- Samuel Adams is a award-winning beer company. Even though through our minds we know your never-ending effort put forth, I believe you men are worth even more than what’s there.

After trying to grasp how you Founding Fathers are dropped into our country representatively, I would like to thank you for not only your time now but the past time you gave as well. Time is crucial, and you men sure used it well. As mentioned previously, this country came from recognizable efforts, and it was you, Founding Fathers, that made this happen. I’ve lived in this country my whole life; nothing compares to what you men have accomplished many, many years ago.

Sincerely,

Claire Ellington 

Bruiser- Cause/Effect

Author's Note: This is a short piece on the cause and effect in the book Bruiser. Starting with explaining what Brewster is able to do and finishing with how one person he met changed his life.

Brewster Rawlins was born with an abnormal condition, which was being able to steal away the physical pain and emotional suffer from loved ones. He loved his little brother Cody and his uncle Hoyt, even though his Uncle is abusive and an alcoholic. These two caused him enough wounds, therefore he didn't want another person to love. Although, that is what he got, Bronte, the name of the girl that Brewster fell for. As much pain as she may have caused him, it doesn't amount to the damage he would have received without her.

Whenever I think of the theme of this novel, it reminds me of the movie I Am Sam. The main character in this movie, Sam, has a condition as well. Though instead he faces a developmental disability with the intelligence of  a seven-year-old. During the film, Sam is raising a six-year-old who is taken away from him; this is kind of like Brewster's innocence that is stolen from him by Uncle Hoyt. Both characters, Brew and Sam, work intensely to receive what they're longing for whether it be Sam's little girl, or Brew's health and righteousness. 

Without Bronte, Brewster would have died. Uncle Hoyt had a stroke from all of the alcohol he drinks, and Brewster almost took away all of it. Then he remembered Bronte and how much he loved her, which he then discovered the strength that pulled him away from the stroke and dumped it all back over to his uncle, and left his uncle Hoyt dead as can be. Since he did have Bronte, he continued life's journey headed toward a satisfying end.

Dear John- Conflict/Resolution

Author's Note: This is my conflict/resolution piece I wrote on Dear John by Nicholas Sparks. What I wrote explains the struggles John was going through, or the conflict, and in the end shows how that conflict was resolved while showing how it relates to another piece Nicholas Sparks wrote called A Walk To Remember.

Dear John is a classic Nicholas Sparks story about a boy and a girl. From the boy, John's perspective, he had recently graduated from High School and was not planning on going to college, but enlisting in the army instead. On a summer's day, when John was out surfing, he collides with this girl, Savannah, and fell in love. Their summer love conflicts with his time in war that he has to contribute. While John was away, they continued to share their love through notes. Although they only grow farther apart the longer John is away. John is going through a person vs. society conflict which leads into a person vs. person conflict. For instance John, the person, is at war and is forced to serve his time, which would be society. Him being at war leaves Savannah lonely. Eventually, Savannah fell in love with another man. Indicating that John would be against the other man she has fallen in love with, person vs. person. 

From one novel to another, Nicholas Sparks wrote another beautifully crafted book that drips themes very similar to what Dear John has. He named this one, A Walk To Remember. Each of these two books start out with the person vs. society conflict. With A Walk To Remember, the main character, Landon Carter, was faced against the world because of his past. Landon did not have the best background and it was difficult to prove to the world, and especially his family, what a loyal person he really is at heart. Progressing farther into the book, he runs into a girl, Jamie Sullivan, that has been left in the background for many years. Although, once Landon gets to know Jamie better through a school play, he falls in love. Conflicting with his feelings, though, is Jamie's father who is a strict Reverend and disagrees with how Landon used to act. This situation would be the person vs. person, Landon vs. Jamie's father.

Although the two novels are similar in conflicts, their solutions are quite diverse. Resolving A Walk To Remember involved Landon changing his lifestyle in order to prove to not only Jamie's father, but his family members as well that he is a trustworthy and has loving at heart. He changed so dramatically that Jamie's rule-enforcing father came to believe in Landon. He put his trust in him so much that he  allowed Landon to marry Jamie when the story came to an end. Despite the fact that Jamie died in the end of the book, she continued to live in Landon's heart as if she never left.

From the similar situation of A Walk To Remember, return to the solution of Dear John. Mail day comes and John receives a letter from Savannah explaining how she is in love with another man. Though this is extremely difficult for John to soak in, after war he returns to his hometown and meets up with Savannah once more. John finds that Savannah's fiance is struggling with melanoma. While Savannah's fiance is on his death bed, John discovers the meaning of true love. He describes it as, "... love meant that you care for another’s happiness more than your own, no matter how painful the choices you face might be.”. Therefore he went off and paid, anonymously, to help find a cure for Savannah's fiance, and the cure healed all of his wounds. Even though John didn't end up with the girl, he did end up with a true and compassionate heart and that he will always know he made the respectable decision. 

A Christmas Story- Personal Narrative

Author's Note: I wrote this piece as my personal narrative and it is set in the scene of Christmas morning in 2004. At this time I was six years old and contained a lot of energy, as most six-year-old's do. This piece explains how my Christmas went and my absolute favorite gift I received that year.

Fading away from my dreams and back into reality, my eyes flutter open. A tingling sensation runs through my veins feeling just as needles do while I continue to become awake. Today is Christmas, the glorious day of joy, hope, and happiness. Out of motivation, I roll out of bed and stumble onto the floor. The frosted window across the room is calling my name. Peering through the window on my front lawn, I notice there's a blanket of pure and untouched snow. Towering over the gorgeous nature, I felt as if the air was sucked right out of me. With that in mind, I raced over to my brother Jack's bedroom. I pounded on his door like there was no tomorrow. When there was a faint response of who knows what, I blasted through the door while shouting at the top of my lungs, "It's Christmas!!". 

For whatever reason, my older sister, Katie, was still asleep after all of that ruckus I created. Which made me think, if that didn't get her to wake up, I guess I will have to be louder! Therefore I thought up a new waking-up-routine. Shaking her like a leaf on a fall tree and yelling 'Christmas time' repeatedly seemed to do the trick. Katie wasn't necessarily sending off the sunshine waves for the next few minutes. Though, we all sat at the top of the staircase, together, waiting until it was a safe time to wake mom and dad up with just as much energy as the previous times. Eagerness is eating me alive. For only down the steps and around the corner awaits the feeling of togetherness and exhilaration.

Around 6:30 A.M., Katie, Jack, and I cannot wait any longer; we all dart down the stairs heading towards mom and dad's room. Immediately as we reached our parent's bedroom door, like I did to my brother's door, we walked right through it. Like a stampede, we bolted to their bedside and started jumping for joy in our fuzzy pajamas. Mom and dad began rubbing their eyes like they were tired or something, but eventually stood up. Dad went off to fetch the video camera while the rest of us waited impatiently in the kitchen.

Dad returns with the camera and promptly flips the screen open. My face is recorded in the film first followed by our dog, Bjorn. My smile was broader than the horizon on an open field as I watch Dad back into the family room. From this I know that momentarily we will be comforting ourselves with giant boxes tied off with big red bows. 

"Come on in now!" my dad proclaims. The three of us jam through the door, all attempting to be first. Once we are all settled, mom tells Katie, Jack, and I to search for the plastic pickle. Whoever comes out of the Christmas tree with the pickle first gets to open the first present, so I'm determined to be the lucky one. I stuck my head into the prickly mess with no pickle in sight. What I heard, though, was my sister shouting, "I got it! I got it!" Leaving me last place yet another year.

After rounding up all of our gifts, Katie began by peeling away the wrapping of a blue snowflake present that was as tall as me! Katie revealed what was in the box; it's a humongous, stuffed animal, panda bear!! She is obsessed with that animal, so she delightedly let out an ear-piercing shriek. Next in line was Jack, then me, followed by mom and dad each opening a present. Jack received some Lego toy that I don't really care for, but apparently he does. Abruptly, everyone's attention was dished over to me signaling to pick my first present of the 2004 Christmas.

Scanning my pile, I spot one gift that is unlike the rest. This particular one has four flat sides of a box and the corner of two linking sides are curved where they meet; I found this interesting. Crouching down, I scooped up the gift. The uniquely shaped box made a popping noise when I touched the curved corner, must be plastic edging, I considered. Although, the other corners felt like cardboard. "This is the one!" I state, brushing my hand across the face of the present. I lifted my hand, then began tearing up the wrapping paper hunting for the glory inside.

Bestowed upon me is the most fantastic thing a 6 year old could ever receive. A breath-taking, white, furry little ball that moves by itself is anything I could ever imagine to lay my eyes on. Go-Go My Walking Pup is the name of this wondrous toy that rolls along on it's little paws barking and all. Hollering to the world, with my jaw dropped, "AHHHHH!!!!! THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I WANTED!! Thank you, thank you! Mom and dad... and the store, THANK YOU!" Irresistibly, I ripped open the sealed cardboard and plugged in the batteries. Ruff-ruff, is the first noise that came out of the electronic puppy.

Advancing through the morning, numerous other admirable gifts were given. Currently, my most beloved present still stands as the one that is able to maneuver without my assistance. At only 9:15 A.M., this Christmas day has been toppled over with love and closeness of my family members. Along with feelings of admiration from my toy, I'm also honored to have my parents know me so well as to get me the perfect present. Placing that perfect present in the car, our family hopped into the mini-van and headed off to Grandma and Grandpa's house to re-experience the love and closeness on a whole different level. Of which is with three or four other families rather than one. During the time I was visualizing our time at Grandma's, my eyelids grew heavy. After two or three weighted blinks, I dozed off to sleep once again.

A Walk To Remember

Author's Note: Here I am retelling how the novel A Walk To Remember went. It is very short and I try not to reveal how the book ends.

When a boy, who has lost his purpose, meets the daughter of the reverend, his life is turned around. As the young couple fall head over heels for each other, a devastating secret is discovered that puts their relationship to the test.

DWA Fall 2012- Love is Love

Author’s Note: On September 12^th it was my parents 20^th anniversary. From seeing them, and how happy they were on their anniversary, it inspired me to write about them. I would like to dedicate this piece to them as they celebrate 20 years of love together. I named this piece Love is Love because you can't hide from it, so why not embrace it?

Now I know the feeling. The feeling all young adults gossip over about a month after their big day. It’s as if the sensations I am experiencing now and in this moment are a massive potion that is about to explode. This mixture that I am creating with every moment of this experience contains overwhelming excitement, but deep down I feel nervousness, as every young lady does when they come to this day. I let that emotion pass and withdraw it from the concoction of passion I continue to make. We are both 23 years old now, I could not wait for this day ever since my loved one asked me, “Will you marry me?”

As I am living all of the loveliest  emotions known to mankind, my bridesmaids surround me. They keep telling me how they believe my fiancé is the perfect man for me. Of course, I agree, I love this man with all of my heart. My bridesmaids and I all felt the same way while putting together final touches, it is eagerness. Which obviously means there never once is a second without laughter filling the room. Just being with my most dependable, yet comical, friends  prior to heading towards the alter made me even more impatient. Although, I knew the moment would come soon, incredibly soon.

Before I know it my bridesmaids are already up there and here I stand beside my father with our arms linked. My heart is beating a mile a minute as I place one foot in front of the other. While we are slowly walking, the tune “Sonata Pathetique ” rings through my ears. It’s such a beautiful piece; I now realize how enormous my smile is. That’s when I see him, and I mean really see him. His smile mirrors mine. I notice the way his eyes glimmer from the sunlight streaming in through the stained glass windows. Those eyes always get me; they’re a deep charming blue. Now, I am standing alongside my to-be husband. We meet eyes as the priest begins the ceremony. For a moment, I look into my future. Gray, old, and wrinkly, my husband and I stand with our hands inseparable. Without a doubt, I know we will love forever and always.

Continuing through the service, my smile remains beaming. It’s almost time for us to place our rings on the fourth finger of the left hand, symbolizing our marriage. As I am soaking in every moment, I spot the ring bearer approaching us. We say our verses and I dos. The gorgeous ring is now around my finger, but I am not focused on that now. All that is running through my mind is waiting to hear the announcement, to hear him declare who we are now. Everyone in the church is fully aware of the words the priest is about to state, “I now proclaim you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.” Even though I want to fall into his arms and stay that way for hours, I am courteous and kiss him with respect. I am now a married woman. Somebody pinch me! My husband and I stand in awe thinking how movie-like this feels. How we found each other is a miracle, but that’s another story. For now, I’m living, breathing, and drinking in all of the love and happiness.

It’s been 20 years now. These years have passed but our love for each other is no less than it was when we were united. Remembering isn’t a problem for me, and I know it isn’t for my husband either. From time to time I evoke the feelings of that day vividly. From the excitement down to the affection I felt towards my husband. Not only recalling that, but how I saw every emotion on my husband’s face when I walked down the aisle. These remembrances will never go away, and I’m glad because that was the most joyous day I ever experienced in my whole life. Through sickness or health, rich or poor, we will continue to share our everlasting love.

Speechless

 Author's note: This is something I wrote in response to the book Speak. I'm glad that I read this book and I hope others decide to read it too!

Melinda Sordino found herself in a crisis: she and her friends were gathered at a end of the summer drinking party. Unfortunately, a tragic event happened to 13 year old Mel while at the party. Ergo, she killed the party by calling the cops, although, drinking was not the reason why she did so. Speak, by Laurie Anderson, sends a message that tells us not to judge a book by its cover in life while associating humor beautifully.

This book causes readers to question what they’d do if in Mel’s shoes. Many would seemingly do the same as Melinda, and probably receive an identical punishment. It would have been logical for Melinda to tell someone, anyone, what had actually happened. On the contrary, she kept it locked inside of her, thinking no one would listen or trust what she’s saying to be true. To get the weight off one’s back, the wise thing to do would be consult with an adult or friend that is trustworthy.

Throughout the many hardships that were in Speak, the author managed to incorporate humor in each chapter. Though it is a serious topic, the author managed to include Mel’s sarcastic voice. The comedy in this book keeps readers entertained and creates the story to flow well. For instance there is a list of: “THE FIRST TEN LIES THEY TELL YOU IN HIGH SCHOOL”. Following that list they make another which is: “TEN MORE LIES THEY TELL YOU IN HIGH SCHOOL”. Another one of my favorites from the many humorous quotes is: “It’s easier to floss with barbed wire than admit you like someone in Middle School.” Surely one will find themselves snickering while reading this book.

While remembering the almost dangerous amusement, there’s a major lesson learned. Similar to “don’t judge a book by it’s cover”, this lesson is: when not knowing the whole situation, it’s best not to make judgement on anything. This may make lives miserable. Take Melinda for example: no more friends, grades down the drain, and she’s literally speechless. Stepping into Melinda’s world for me would leave me with puffy eyes every day and refuse to move a muscle the whole day. Melinda is brave enough to actually go to school. This is definitely worth some applause.

This book contains valuable lessons and it is a pleasure to read. While giggling through Speak, you might find yourself shedding a few tears as well. After I finished this book, I found myself on the edge of my seat craving for more! Don’t you want to discover what’s held within the cover?

The Sun Will Shine

 Author's Note: This is a piece I wrote in response to the short story All Summer in a Day. The short story is placed in the future where people can live on Venus, no matter how badly it affects them and their behavior.

A proportion of rain to sunlight: seven years to two hours. Sadly, this is the life people in the short story All Summer in a Day have to live. One girl, Margot, was the only one who recalled the sun and the rays it gave off. Living on the planet Venus, Margot is going through depression in this book; the bullies and the teacher did not help.

Margot is faced with depression. There are many elements that are provoke her distress. Primarily, this was caused by moving from Earth to Venus. The Earth we live on takes in lots of sunlight daily, which is healthy for the body. Whereas, Venus shows the sun every seven years for about two hours. It was a dramatic adjustment that Margot had to make. Her loss of vitamin D was overwhelming when she moved to Venus. Without the Sun, there is a very high possibility of getting depression. For example, during the winter season, people do not receive enough sunlight. Therefore, they may have to tollerate seasonal affective disorder; also known as SAD. Amid the winter, days are shorter; light lessens. SAD mostly arises to people who are sensitive to light, or the shortage of it. 

Although lack of sunlight is a major factor in Margot’s depression, the bullies play a tremendous roll too. The offender, William, was very heartless towards Margot. For god’s sake, he locked her in a closet when the sun was predicted to reappear! Not a soul in that room wanted to ruffle his feathers and get caught up into being bullied along with her; so the students watched as William tormented poor, melancholy, Margot.

Considering the bullies in this story, don’t forget the character the teacher is. The teacher was a bully within herself. She left the classroom for who knows what. William took advantage of the time when she was gone and bullied Margot around. Afterwards, when Margot was surrounded by closet walls, the teacher went on with what she thought was her whole class to see the Sun. What she should’ve done, as a responsible teacher, is go through her class list and be sure that all of her students are with her. This teacher contributed to the bulling. 

In the short story All Summer in a Day, Margot suffered through depression on behalf of the tormenters and teachers at her school. Unquestionably, there is a way for teachers to contribute to the bullying. Not only the bullying is a problem, but bear in mind the lack of sunlight and how it is a major factor as well. To grasp the joy the Sun gives us take five to ten minutes out of your day to read the phenomenal short story: All Summer in a Day.