• Community in the Darkness

  by A.S.

  As a child, I planned elaborate parties for every birthday, with themes like bakery, rock star, and Rapunzel. I prepared for months before, carefully selecting dresses, activities, and frosting flavors. I helped my parents create a makeshift cupcakery, karaoke bar, and princess castle in our home.

• Out of My Room and Into the World

  by Aster McNulty

  I have always been a homebody, even in elementary school. I went to the park after class with my friends, and to birthday parties. But I felt safest and happiest and most myself at home—the tiny, messy apartment I share with my parents.

• Listening to Love

  by Anonymous

  I realized I was unique when I was 4. Everyone else in preschool had two ears, while I had a left ear and a tiny bump on the right side. I didn’t understand why my mom carefully brushed my long hair to hide the little bump.

• Finding Luck

  by Rylynn

  “I’m sorry for your loss,” Luck said sadly, patting my shoulder.  The February air was cold and the trees bare. I brushed wet leaves from the damp picnic table and laid my backpack across it like a casket. I unzipped the backpack and pulled out the battered black Chromebook, covered in scratches from my dogs.

• Soften Your Grip, But Don’t Let Go

  by Czarina Datiles

  Names and identifying details have been changed. “I’m gonna do it.” “What do you mean?” I asked, locking the door to my room, because part of me knew the answer. My heart raced. “Hello? You still there?” “Yeah.” Her voice wavered.

• For You Are With Me

  by Josh Lancman

  “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” –Psalm 23 Names have been changed. Nestled in the Conservative Jewish part of northeastern Pennsylvania, Camp R in the Poconos is a place many of us who have passed through its wooden bunks call home.