The Red Balloon

by Preetish Jaria

Grade 7

It was an energetic morning when the boy was  walking down the street. He seemed jolly and was walking carefree. He stopped when he saw a pillar which had a dark red color balloon with a slight touch of maroon. The balloon was attached with a loose white string. The boy quickly ran to the balloon and looked at it with amazement.

 He kept his small but heavy suitcase near the pillar and placed his right leg and both of his hands on the pillar and started climbing. He went up and untied the balloon and held it in his hands. As he was coming down with a smile, he left the balloon accidently and then it rose high in the sky.

The boy stood beneath the pillar watching the balloon fly away

He grabbed his suitcase and started running as fast as possible. Now he really wanted the balloon.

The balloon was flying to the north slowly shaking its head. The boy was ran behind it, when he looked to his watch It was 8:50!

He needed to reach school as it started at sharp 9 and the boy did not want to get scolding like the previous day when Mr.  Ron his school teacher went mad at him.

He stopped chasing the balloon with despair and rushed to class. When school was finally over, he came outside the classroom he saw  the red balloon again. This time he did not want to miss it. He moved slowly towards the exit of the school where the balloon was. Once he was close enough, he pounced on the string which had already moved a second ago with the balloon. The boy started running after the balloon through the streets.

He dashed with old man but did not stop at all. He was running as fast as he could and was adamant to get the balloon.  He stopped in front of a newly whitewashed  building when he got tired. He then realized that that day he would have to starve as he had  forgotten to go for lunch to his mother's bakery.

He once again left the balloon in despair and went for his violin classes. He ran behind his school and entered the main street where his violin teacher lived. In the class, while he was playing a tune, he saw the balloon once again. He was distracted. The dark red color enchanted him and he could not move his eyes from the balloon. He picked his violin case from the floor, took his violin and walked up to the door slowly.

“Where are you going?” his teacher asked.

No answer from the boy. 

Once he was near the door, he began to run. He chased the balloon with full speed. When he stopped in front of a building near  the bus station the boy  decided to leave the balloon as the balloon was trying its best to run away from the boy. He walked  to the bus station with a sad face and waited for the bus to come. 

"No problem, it was just a balloon", he said to himself. 

With this thought and a faint smile he walked up to the Sam candy store and bought a lollipop. He boarded the bus and licked the lollipop slowly and forgot all about the balloon.

 

He  got out of the bus and walked up to his mother's bakery. There she was, waiting outside with the same red balloon in her hand. As soon as he saw the balloon, he dropped the lollipop and dashed quickly towards her.  

 

"Son this is for you" she said, giving him the balloon with a smile.

 

The Light in Me

by Pavithra Nair

Grade 8

The rivers sleeping beneath the mountains

The crescent moon shining bright

The rays fading into the dark

When the day is left behind.

 

Here I am standing on top of the world

Stretching my arms out 

And shouting to the universe that if

‘Today dies, tomorrow will be mine’.

 

I will wait till the time

For the sun in me to rise 

With a little hope

I shall wake up tomorrow

To spread my light

And create a new world

Filled with contentment and joy! 

               

The sun has set

And darkness has taken its place

But still there is a tiny spark

To light up my life!

 

Across a Half Bridge

by Nidhi George

Grade 8

The day was sunny and bright. I was walking on the uneven side of the road, my friends and family all around me. The November wind was sharp and cold against my face. My hat couldn’t prevent my ears from going numb with cold. I could smell the fresh rain from the night before, and the grass looked muddy. 

“It’s not that cold, Nidhi,” my friend Aanya said from beside me. She probably saw me shivering. “Besides, we’ll warm up as we walk.”

“Maybe. I thought it would be warmer than this, though!”

I glanced ahead and saw the Smoky Mountains right in front of me. We were staying in Gatlinburg for the week, as a chance for me to see Aanya and her family (who had moved to North Carolina 2 years prior.)  We were going to hike through the mountains, which had seemed cool when I first heard the idea. Now it was literally too cool, and I was starting to regret not bringing a pair of gloves. 

We reached what seemed like a parking lot, and saw the entrance to the hiking trail. It seemed pretty straightforward, without too many forks in the path. I could hear the sound of rushing water ahead, and I could see couples and families walking. There were eleven people in our group; my two best friends, their parents, my parents, and another couple that was friends with our parents and I. We started through the trail, twigs snapping under my sneakers. 

After a few minutes of seeing only trees and rocks, we found the first stream. It was beautiful, with clear water and a small waterfall, smooth stones underneath. I immediately pulled out my phone, and took a snapshot of the picturesque scene. I showed my dad, who nodded approvingly. 

“Come on, Nidhi! Hurry up, you’re taking forever!” Archi, my other friend, called from up ahead. I scrambled to catch up, but there were so many things I wanted photos of! 

About 30 minutes later, after a lot of annoyed reminders to keep moving, we reached a river with a bridge over it. The only problem? The bridge was split in half lengthwise, so it only had one railing, and it was barely a foot wide. 

Now, I’m not usually afraid of heights, but I’m definitely not a daredevil. I hate doing anything risky, especially without thinking it through first. Unfortunately, no one else seemed to take issue the seriously. We only had half a bridge to cross to the other side, so I was forced to go along with them. I stepped in line between my dad and Aanya, who I figured were the most likely to catch me if I slipped. I carefully put a foot on the bridge, and started slowly shuffling across. I could see a line forming behind me, and the people ahead had already crossed all the way. I knew I was ridiculously slow, but to be honest, I was extremely scared. I continued inching my way across, with a few nudges from my dad behind me. 

After what seemed like ages, but was probably closer to thirty seconds, I finally hopped off the other side of the bridge. My mom raised her eyebrow. 

“Stop being so scared. You’re fine. You’re not going to slip.”

“What if I do though?”

“You’re not going to.”

I shrugged, and I skipped off with my friends, into the forest.

 

 

India, my motherland

by Amrutha Sriram

Grade 8

“India is my country, All Indians are my brothers and sisters” 

The above mentioned line symbolises the following things-

India is my country, and I will do anything for India for its welfare with patriotism and interest. I treat all Indians as my own siblings and never discriminate between them.

In the olden times, girls were not considered important. They were not given proper education. Whenever a girl was born, her parents used to think of her marriage to donate items to the boy\groom. This was a very cruel practice. 

But, now, India has developed a lot. It has many sophisticated technologies and has put an end to cruel practices that were implemented in the olden times. Women are now respected and are provided education.

Additionally, India is also leading the world in spirituality as the great Sri Aurobindo had said. Now, we have discussed the specialities of India. 

We often use the term ‘Patriotism’. Patriotism does not only mean serving our country but also means taking responsibility of our country. We should aim to contribute something to our

motherland because our motherland has given us a lot. She is like our own

Mother. 

Whatever we do should be- 

FOR THE COUNTRY 

TO THE COUNTRY 

GIVING THE COUNTRY

I want my country to continue its progress in every field, including technology, education, sports and agriculture. There is poverty in India. But India is opening up many organizations for the welfare of the poor people and is attempting hard to build up its development, both economically and culturally. 

Let us all take care of our country. Let us contribute to our country. And last but not the least, let us be patriotic towards our country.

Jai Hind! Vande Mataram! 

 

An ode to Friendship 

by Malini Tarakad Seshu

Grade 8

 

Friendship, 

A simple term which encompasses more than an individual could understand,

A word to describe a bond that is unalike for two, 

Maybe it be two different people, or two differing bonds.

 

A type of love, a versatile type,

A type that could turn into romance, hatred or just a forever,

A forever with someone who understands you,

Maybe not all of you, but the parts that matter to you.

 

I have friends who I value more than they understand,

Sometimes I doubt they value me, but they assure me that they do,

I’ve spent years with them,

Years of euphoria and exhaustion, a blend of both and more.

 

I write this to convey, to share,

The qualities of theirs which captivated me,

The reasons I value them, 

And the phenomenal love I have for them.

 

I have a friend,

Who is compassionate, so loveable, so enthusiastic about others’ success,

Her determination and perseverance amaze me,

And the way she accepts without doubt.

Someone who’s always ready to talk,

Who doesn’t intrude or impose, but shows that she will support us,

Someone who likes the calm, but loves our boisterous spirits.

 

I have a friend,

Who is genuine and guileless, so sincere about her efforts,

Who deserves more appreciation,

Who appreciates, and loves making others feel worthy, who hypes me up,

Someone who’s always ready to be there, to talk, to listen, or just to stay,

Someone with strong opinions and so much courage,

Someone who believes that everyone deserves a chance.

 

I have a friend,

Who doesn’t judge, and doesn’t make opinions without reason,

Who appreciates peace and welcomes chaos equally,

Who gives excellent advice, who is always ready to listen,

Someone who encourages, and tells me to go for it,

Someone with love to share.

 

I have a friend,

Who is the first close friend I’ve ever had, 

Introverted and shy to others, candid and sarcastic to me,

Someone who understands me without asking too many questions, 

And safeguards thoughts of mine, old and new,

Who has a unique sense of humour,

And loves to learn more about humanity.

 

I have a friend, 

Who is there when I need familiarity and banter, 

Who is curious to learn about so much, 

Someone who is immensely talented, so creative,

Encouraging and enthusiastic,

Who deserves wonder and ecstasy.

 

I have a friend,

Who is talkative while soft-spoken,

Who jokes and laughs, who is composed and level-headed,

Someone who is generous and welcoming,

Who deserves all the good things in the world.

 

I have a friend, 

Who doesn’t outwardly show affection, but does in the ways that matter,

Who has so many stories to share, and listens to mine,

Someone who is bold and daring, and protective of those she cares about,

Someone who is ‘heartless’, in the best way,

Someone with layers of personality, but foremost,

Someone who is there, no matter what.

 

This is not enough,

This is barely scratched the surface,

But words are not enough to describe such a bond.

 

So now, I hope to whoever’s up there, 

Please let their presence in my life remain,

And let my presence in theirs provide them with the love they deserve.

 

From Asha's Desk

September 2020

It’s time for GW to sparkle again online. How quickly a month passed!

I am overwhelmed by the quality of writing I have received from our young writers this month. I am using ‘overwhelmed’ instead of ‘impressed’ because there isn’t the slightest trace of self-importance as a senior in my admiration for them. The writings have swept me off my feet.

The subjects they have written about are deep and diverse. And it is proof to the fact that our youngsters are super talented and insightful. Although submissions aren’t pouring in yet, making me suspect writing is still considered a nerdy activity that demands a lot of brain work and time, I am positive. There is a lot of talent out there and I will do everything I can to dredge the earth and find the gems.

I am particularly impressed with the interest many moms are taking in getting their child/children’s work featured on GW. Keep them inspired, moms.

GW is not just about having young writers featured. It aims to develop into a platform where children and YA can discuss, share thoughts and find expression to their adolescent/teenage peeves and pangs. It is where they can unwind themselves.

As a children’s Writing coach, I have had the opportunity to know several youngsters closely and it has helped me realize how different their world is from the one I grew up in; how much more challenging and uncertain. They have things to say, but is the world listening?

Keeping this in view, I am starting a forum on GW where all the young minds can send their opinion/views/thoughts in a couple of paragraphs on a particular ‘topic of the month’ by mail to writeforgw@gmail.com . Those who wish to protect their identity may let me know and I shall not publish your name with your opinion.

(Please note that all the published articles are listed month-wise in the column on the right.)

Keep Glowing. Keep Growing.

 

To My 18 Year Old Self

by Pallavi Santosh

3rd year, University

 

Dear Eighteen-year-old me,

A lot has happened since then and now, but what I have learned and you need to know is you have to stop being so hard on yourself.

You’re allowed to wander and be lost. You can be searching for yourself, yet be there for everybody. You are strong enough to handle both. Stop living to make people around you happy with your put-up sunshine personality.  Sob for a while, be moody for a day. It doesn’t matter. It’s what will make you stronger.

You tell everyone that change is okay and yet you never let yourself believe it. Believe in it. Let yourself loose. Go with the flow. Don’t be so serious. Adopt your changes because, trust me, they will do better for you in the long run.

Incidents that happen in your life do not determine who you are. You will have to learn that the hard way. But always remember that it is what you choose to do afterwards that will truly define you.

You will lose friends and you will be broken. But like Rumi said, it’s from the cracks that the light enters. You will make new friends and you will know that things will be okay. Things will come your way when they have to, and they will be good, so stop looking.

Your thought process became mature long before it actually had to, but that’s not bad. It’s the reason why you can help so many people now.

Keep dreaming. You are talented, smart and creative. You will grow up to be a person you will love. You will look back on the experiences you had and not regret it. You will grow up to be a good, sound woman this world can lean on. Love yourself. Trust me, it will do wonders for you.

Be kind. Be grateful. Be true. Do good deeds without expecting anything in return.

Dream. And believe in yourself.

With lots of love and the same amount of hope that makes us naïve, but dreamers,

Your 20-year-old self (who is still learning)

 

 

The Realm
by Amrutha Sriram

Grade 7

The name of the article sounds like a poem, but it is not. It is an article about God's presence.

God is Almighty, put yourselves near His feet. He is the embodiment of energy and generosity. Pray to Him with respect and devotion. God is the person who created this greenery, He is the one who created us, He is the one who created the animals and birds, and above all He is the one who created this universe. He is the utmost reality, and He is the utmost truth. He is the one who taught us the purpose of life.

Oh! The materialistic population of humans and animals,

Tune yourselves to the manifestation of God.  Listen to Him with your best listening skills, pray to Him sincerely and He will automatically appear in front of you.

Oh! The population of humans and animals,

We have many things which are impossible in this world, but remember, nothing is impossible in the field of God. If we desire for some impossible object, put yourselves down in the feet of God, and He will make it possible. In God's field, there are Infinite possibilities.

Oh! The population consisting of humans and animals,

Hear this. God is the ultimate reality, He is the simplest one. As the great painter Leonardo Da Vinci has said, ‘Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.’

Oh! The population of humans and animals,

While praying, you cannot see God with your eyes; you can only experience that Divine vibration and with this, you can say that God has listened to your prayer, you can say that God has blessed you.

Oh! The free humanity and animals,

God is subtle. It is difficult to see or hear or smell His presence with our sense organs. He can be experienced when we tune our mind to Him. He is The The Creator, Preserver and Destroyer.

Oh! The famous mankind and animal world,

The above statements are to be read carefully, word by word, by understanding. Read the above inspirational statements, and when you apply the mentioned points, you will feel the Divine teachings from God, and get a beautiful opportunity to experience all emotions, failure and success, good and bad, and all the dualities of life in a positive manner.

 

 

Absorbed
by Malini Tarakadu Seshu
Grade 8

Why are we so divided?

Why don’t we feel each other anymore?

Does life have a purpose?

If it does, we don’t find it anymore.

Or is it that we don’t search?

 

Technology assisted mankind, of course,

Our life balances on a digital podium.

But that foundation is weak, 

It is on the verge of shattering,

One broken piece for every dead soul.

 

Why don’t we just talk to each other?

It’s like we’re absorbed into a digital world.

There are no flights back.

All we must to do is a lift of the head,

A smile, a greeting, a life not dead anymore.

 

People don’t look at each other,

Even when someone is next to you.

What did they do to you?

You brought this on yourself,

You don’t seem like you care.

 

Family, aren’t they? Friends, aren’t we?

Is it so hard to be alive?

Is it so hard to live?

Is it so hard to restart?

Now only we can save ourselves, 

Try to live and try to hope.

 

Flower
by Sidra Musheer

Just out of Grade 12

Flower-
The word draws a myriad of images to one's mind,
Be it a delicate little plant
Or the moonlit face of their lover.

It holds meaning,
Immense meaning to those who utter it
But not to me
To me it is just another term in the dictionary.
Absolute indifference
Is what I feel on its mention.

Throughout time
Despite the varying countries, languages, eras and beliefs
This combination of syllables has always been a gateway for beings to express their unfathomable feelings towards one another

Feeling of love
Feeling of loss
Feeling of hope
Feeling of regret
Feeling of joy
Feeling of grief
This tiny, inanimate object has been universally used to portray one's feelings.

But not to me.
To me, it is nothing more than a capsule of confusion.
People have tried to give it so many meanings,
Tried to make it into something so divine
Something they could always turn to when at a loss of words
That they forgot to let it have its own essence.
They forgot to understand the real purpose it bloomed for.
They were so lost in trying to give anything and everything around themselves a reason for its existence
That they overlooked the fact that not all that is
Has to serve a certain purpose to simply exist.

The word holds no significance to me.
Just a lifeless corpse that has been labelled countlessly since its very birth.
In fact as I think about it now,
I find myself relating to it.
Not because I believe in any of the illogical tags that have been forced upon it
But because when I look at it
I see myself,
I see my entire life from start to end flash before my eyes.

Just how the seed of a flower is sown in a certain place
To how its stems have been moulded against its will to grow a certain way
To how it has been separated from its kin as if it were on display
To how anyone and everyone walking by would pass a judgement on its very face
To how it would be plucked once it was "pretty enough" to be bought
To how it would wilt in a dull, cream vase at a completely unfamiliar place
To how it would be thrown out once the owners noticed its state
Uncaring as to whether or not they were the reason for its deterioration

Flowers mean loss of identity to me
Ever-changing lovers
Forever at their planters' mercy
Not being able to bloom the way they wanted to
Their image constantly being changed

So when I see a person
Considering someone a flower in their eyes
I always wonder
What part of them they wish to alter.

 

If Only

by Lakshmisree Raju

Grade 8

If only I could see

Deeply into things

Understand that which no one understands

And Get to know new things 

The things that are never known

I will be famous 

And will be known.

If only I could hear deeply

Into everyone's talks, 

Get to know new secrets

And talks behind my back

I can hear what they are hearing 

Without going near 

I can learn new things that I would have never learnt.

If only I could taste 

Deeply in my food 

And enjoy every moment that I eat

I can try new foods 

That I have never tasted before 

And identify all the ingredients

In just no time.

If only I could think deeply 

On every thought that comes to mind

And understand the inner meaning 

On everything people say 

I can join the bits and pieces of one’s thought

And get all the thoughts together

 to make one clear thought.

What fun would it be 

To own  these powers

And play with them

To amaze people.