Peter was staring at the movie, although he was not focusing on it at all. There were two Cassies, one on each side of him, holding him tightly. He looked down at each of their smiling faces as they watched the movie. They both looked up at him at the same time.

Bride of Beasts

“A large shadow appeared on the other side of the fire. A big, black shape nearing the villagers from the forest. No one moved. The shaman stood in front of me, still holding my hand, looking at me with those eyes that could not see. The shadow in the forest got closer and closer, and then, at last, I saw him.”

Chief Editor's Note: The Dangers of Treating Bullet Holes with Band-Aids

Have you ever, after exasperatedly venting your shit show of a day to your colleague or friend or even family member, received a response that went something along the lines of – “look for the silver lining!” or “It could always be worse, there are people much worse off than you”, or my personal favorite “You need to stop being so negative, think positive for a change!”?

From the beaches of Laru

i strip away my clothes; it does not matter / who sunbathes on the rocks, drunk on the endless days. / i have things to do and the sea is waiting. // i trade salt for salt, serving up my heart / on a silver platter. / “take it” i say, and finland turns / its great cold eye in sober curiosity.

April

Spring has arrived at last. This winter was longer than those of years long past. This winter was cold and dark. I was alone. I was afraid. But not to worry, spring is here, winter is over. Oh, maybe this year I’ll find a four leaf clover, my dear.