How Long Is It?

By: Vivian Pham, Staff Writer

How long is it since you’ve come home?

How long is it since your last meal with your family?

How long is it since you’ve felt like home

And allow yourself to be surrounded 

with the people you love.

How long is it since the last time you’ve talked to your parents?

How long does it take to notice wrinkles on their eyes?

How long is it since the last time you’ve said “I love you” to them

Before bedtime like you always did when you were four?

How long is it since you’ve hugged someone

As tight as the wave

And as gentle as the forest?

To love and be loved,

To give and be given,

To go and return from the chaos

To be the person you truly are.

Mother’s Day

By: Sandra Vo, Staff Writer

When my teacher passes out the precut pink paper hearts, I eye the foam stickers that sit in the center of the table, their glittery surface enough to captivate any kindergartener’s attention. Having only just turned six years old, my palms still retain their baby fat and even despite my best efforts, I align them crookedly on the paper.

“These are Mother’s Day invitations,” my teacher announces. I’m not sure what that means, but she warns us again not to cover up the words printed on the paper with any of our decorations. Once my paper appears satisfactorily covered with puffy stickers, I trace the outline of the lace trim on the invitation, mesmerized by its texture. My fellow peers chatter animatedly around me, showing off their hearts with beaming smiles.

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