ESSAY HONORABLE MENTION
Gloria Macedo
WILMINGTON CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 11TH GRADE
AZALEA PETALS
The welcoming warmth of my mother’s hand, engulfing my own, slowly spreads to my arms, my legs, and finally
my heart, as we both wander through the busy streets. I seem to turn my head at every unique sight, sound and smell
I encounter. Amazing, I think to myself, one united festival that displays so many different people and talents. How
fitting that it be called the Azalea Festival.
An azalea flower is comprised of several delicate petals that arrive in diverse colors. Each petal is part of a whole flower
that reveals its beauty at its right time. As my gaze falls on the colorful, cultural and coordinated displays of artistry around
me, I realize that each of us is an azalea petal. We are all unique, and we contribute to this community. All of the helping
hands that came together to create a piece in the grand parade are petals in that flower of a float. Even the several supportive
bystanders have their precious part in this uniting event.
The great attraction of an azalea plant is in the numerous flowers that each bush contains. Each delicate azalea petal
is part of an exquisite flower which is part of a grand bush of blooming beauty. We are all united, regardless of age, back-ground,
or talent. Both the vivacious performances of Wilmington’s youth and the numerous stands promoting programs
run by the elderly are equally part of Wilmington’s charm. The delectable cuisines offered by the busy street sides can be
detected from miles away as my nose smells the best of family recipes to unique tastes of faraway lands. Groups of friends
and family are scattered about downtown, enjoying the best Wilmington has to offer.
Azaleas are a great symbol for this city. The festival holds the uniqueness of each individual and displays it wondrously
when we each do our share. We have all come together for the same purpose: celebrating Wilmington! Each of us has a
part in this grand, thriving community, home of the Azalea Festival.
POETRY HONORABLE MENTION
Mia Marino
WILMINGTON CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 10TH GRADE
PINKS, REDS, AND WHITES
The sun has risen on the most beautiful of sights
Azaleas blooming, pinks, reds and whites
Such an abundance of them, they keep going
Oh, and look! Now the Belles are showing
Graceful and calm, they stroll across the walkway
Umbrellas dancing and smiling bright, not one in dismay
Above the elegant doves, stand tall the swiveled trees
Leaves swaying briskly with just one wisp of breeze
Pieces of shadowed sun pour through the giants
Creating silhouettes near the feet of the highest
The joyful faces of families now begin to appear
They are in such good cheer, it is most certainly clear
Floats drift along, colors and scenery lean so tall
Children sit await in awe as such beauty captivates them all
The day and its many wonders have been grand
Though nightfall approaches it will not be bland
Gather around, let us witness the most extraordinary of sights
Fireworks exploding, pinks, reds, and whites
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WBM april 2019