/growth/ n. 1. The process and result of developing: as in humming absentmindedly when I’ve been silent for so long. 2. Calling Mama so often that she doesn’t answer with, “What’s wrong?”, shaving my legs, counseling appointments, wanting to draw, hugging my friends without crying, moving my body to music, wearing mascara, saying “no,” making eye contact, / Eating three meals a day, filling my jeans again, / Going up the stairs without getting dizzy. 3. Sometimes regarded as green leaves reaching hungrily toward sunlight: This hope, this waking without swollen eyes / This tangible peace, / This weekend, tonight, / This whisper of contentment, / The desire to grow old, / Watching the leaves sprout red, grow green and fall red again, / Tasting chocolate melt on my tongue, / Forgiving and loving, / Brushing off insults, / When I laugh and cry and don’t feel guilt for either.
*After A Van. Jordan’s “afterglow”
Sydney Schwenke is from Harlan, Kentucky. She is a junior at University of the Cumberlands, pursuing degrees in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing and Missions and Ministry with an emphasis in Missions. Sydney is on her way to graduating in the spring of 2026. Afterwards, her goal is to continue writing while doing mission work overseas and raising a family. Sydney can be found spending time with all the people she loves, listening to The Beatles, creating art, and enjoying Asian food.
Pensworth 