Isaiah 41

 I s a i a h   4 1

-S T R E N G H-

The Helper of Israel

Hi everyone, this chapter from the Bible was originally in Kyla's 

Journey. 

It kind of goes along with the theme. 

This is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible and I hope it's one of yours!

41 

“Be silent before me, you islands!

    Let the nations renew their strength!

Let them come forward and speak;

    let us meet together at the place of judgment.

2 

“Who has stirred up one from the east,

    calling him in righteousness to his service[a]?

He hands nations over to him

    and subdues kings before him.

He turns them to dust with his sword,

    to windblown chaff with his bow.

3 

He pursues them and moves on unscathed,

    by a path his feet have not traveled before.

4 

Who has done this and carried it through,

    calling forth the generations from the beginning?

I, the Lord—with the first of them

    and with the last—I am he.”

5 

The islands have seen it and fear;

    the ends of the earth tremble.

They approach and come forward;

6 

    they help each other

    and say to their companions, “Be strong!”

7 

The metalworker encourages the goldsmith,

    and the one who smooths with the hammer

    spurs on the one who strikes the anvil.

One says of the welding, “It is good.”

    The other nails down the idol so it will not topple.

8 

“But you, Israel, my servant,

    Jacob, whom I have chosen,

    you descendants of Abraham my friend,

9 

I took you from the ends of the earth,

    from its farthest corners I called you.

I said, ‘You are my servant’;

    I have chosen you and have not rejected you.

10 

So do not fear, for I am with you;

    do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you;

    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

11 

“All who rage against you

    will surely be ashamed and disgraced;

those who oppose you

    will be as nothing and perish.

12 

Though you search for your enemies,

    you will not find them.

Those who wage war against you

    will be as nothing at all.

13 

For I am the Lord your God

    who takes hold of your right hand

and says to you, Do not fear;

    I will help you.

14 

Do not be afraid, Jacob,

    little Israel, do not fear,

for I myself will help you,” declares the Lord,

    your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

15 

“See, I will make you into a threshing sledge,

    new and sharp, with many teeth.

You will thresh the mountains and crush them,

    and reduce the hills to chaff.

16 

You will winnow them, the wind will pick them up,

    and a gale will blow them away.

But you will rejoice in the Lord

    and glory in the Holy One of Israel.

17 

“The poor and needy search for water,

    but there is none;

    their tongues are parched with thirst.

But I the Lord will answer them;

    I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.

18 

I will make rivers flow on barren heights,

    and springs within the valleys.

I will turn the desert into pools of water,

    and the parched ground into springs.

19 

I will put in the desert

    the cedar and the acacia, the myrtle and the olive.

I will set junipers in the wasteland,

    the fir and the cypress together,

20 

so that people may see and know,

    may consider and understand,

that the hand of the Lord has done this,

    that the Holy One of Israel has created it.

21 

“Present your case,” says the Lord.

    “Set forth your arguments,” says Jacob’s King.

22 

“Tell us, you idols,

    what is going to happen.

Tell us what the former things were,

    so that we may consider them

    and know their final outcome.

Or declare to us the things to come,

23 

    tell us what the future holds,

    so we may know that you are gods.

Do something, whether good or bad,

    so that we will be dismayed and filled with fear.

24 

But you are less than nothing

    and your works are utterly worthless;

    whoever chooses you is detestable.

25 

“I have stirred up one from the north, and he comes—

    one from the rising sun who calls on my name.

He treads on rulers as if they were mortar,

    as if he were a potter treading the clay.

26 

Who told of this from the beginning, so we could know,

    or beforehand, so we could say, ‘He was right’?

No one told of this,

    no one foretold it,

    no one heard any words from you.

27 

I was the first to tell Zion, ‘Look, here they are!’

    I gave to Jerusalem a messenger of good news.

28 

I look but there is no one—

    no one among the gods to give counsel,

    no one to give answer when I ask them.

29 

See, they are all false!

    Their deeds amount to nothing;

    their images are but wind and confusion.

Kyla's Journey

 P a r t   T h r e e

-R U N N I N G   A W A Y-

Kyla found a seat on the bus next to a Spanish lady holding a book bag. Kyla was very nervous, but she couldn’t go back. Not now, at least. 

After two more stops to pick some people up, the bus drove to its destinations. The bus driver yelled back to Kyla. “Where you be going li’l missy?” 

Kyla stuttered at first. “Uh—I—I’m try—trying to go—” 

“Yer gonna have ta speak up, ‘cause my hearing ain’t that good.” The driver hollered back. 

Kyla got up her courage and tried to holler, “please take me to the farthest city in the state.” 

The driver hollered back, “that’s about fifty some dollars miss. Are ya sure you can pay that much?”

 Kyla quickly counted her money, and answered, “yes I’m sure.” 

Kyla was the last to get off the bus because her destination was the farthest away. She finally reached a city called Charleston. She hopped off the bus confidant but as soon as the bus drove away, her courage sank and she became afraid. “Bus! Bus! Come back!” But it was no use. The bus was far down several roads, probably never to be seen by her again. The story will continue on following page

P a r t   F o u r

-F E E L I N G   C O M F O R T-

Kyla walked on the sidewalk thinking about what had just happened. “I can’t believe this happened. I can’t believe I did this. I—” 

“Can’t believe what happened?” Asked a little boy, about eight or nine. “Sorry, it’s just that I heard every word you said and it made me curious.” 

Kyla stopped, not knowing what to say back in reply. “No, you don’t have too sorry. I was just upset, that’s all.” 

The boy came closer. “Upset about what? Do you have a home? Do you like goldfish? Are you married?” 

Kyla laughed. “No, no. It’s just—” Kyla paused for a moment. Am I really going to share important information with some little kid? Kyla decided she would. Maybe he could help her. 

“Actually, I don’t have a place to sleep, and the only supplies I have is a blanket, some water, and a box of peanuts.” The boy’s face lighted up. “My name’s Malachi, and I know a place. You can sleep at my house. My parents won’t mind. They’re really nice, and right over there!” He pointed to a couple buying some cotton candy, about ten twelve feet away. They soon walked over and handed one too Malachi. 

“Here’s some flavored cotton. Happy Birthday Malachi.” The wife noticed Kyla. 

“Who’s your friend, Malachi?” 

“Oh, that’s just Kyla. She ain’t got no place to sleep, so I said she could sleep at our house tonight.” The couple looked at each other and then at Kyla. 

“That’s fine with us. In the morning, we’ll try to find you someplace you can stay. Alright?” 

Kyla smiled with gratitude. “Thank you.” She said nervously. 

On the way to their house, the two people introduced themselves. 

“I’m Lisha.” 

“And I’m Ryan.” Kyla felt comfortable around them, and almost forgot her own family.

Kyla's Journey

 P a r t   T w o

-T O U G H   C H O I C E S-

Kyla ran into the yard, her face burning with tears. Why is this happening to me? She thought over and over again. Why? Why did Mom and Dad have to split up? Why do we have to move away from our home and leave Dad behind?  “I just want things to go back to normal.” She said through her tears. 

Kyla was never the one to cry or get teared up all time, but these last three months she had become so emotional and quiet. 

That thought about Mica wanting a new Dad, ran through Kyla’s mind a million times. She pondered them over and over again. But then thought: Once we move to Ohio, Dad will get our house here in South Carolina. Then— Kyla paused. “Am I really doing this? Yes. I have to. I can’t leave Dad behind.” 

Kyla had made her decision. I’m running away. But only for a little while. Once my Mom and Mica are in Ohio, then I’ll come back here and live with Dad. Ever since Kyla’s parents divorced, Kyla drew away from her Mom. Since it was her Mom’s idea to get a divorce, Kyla just stopped talking to her as much as she used to. 

Kyla snuck inside the half empty house, and found a random bag lying on the dusty floor. She picked it up and stuffed a water bottle, a box of peanuts, and a little blanket. 

I won’t need a lot of supplies, since I’ll only be gone about a week or two. Somehow, the thought never occurred to Kyla that her Mom and sister would never leave the state, knowing that she was missing. 

It was getting dark and Kyla knew a bus always drove through her neighborhood picking people up. This is the fastest way out of here, she thought. To get on the bus, it was about thirty dollars. To get someplace really faraway, it was usually about fifty dollars. Kyla had the money in her hand and waited for the bus. 

Meanwhile, Mom, Mica, and even Dad were still loading things into trucks, and cleaning up the house. Mom was going to check on Kyla, but Mica had told her Kyla was upset and wanted to be left alone. 

The bus finally came, and Kyla inhaled a deep breath. Here I go. She said to herself. And the second she stepped on that bus, her life would change forever. 

Kyla's Journey

 

Kyla’s Journey

The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you

He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31: 18

P a r t   O n e

-C H A N G E-

Kyla lifted up her bronze dresser into the moving van with her sister Mica. Then they lifted the bed frame, along with the mattress. When they were done with Kyla’s bedroom furniture, Mica went inside and decided to start bringing out her bedroom stuff. Kyla sat on the swing thinking. “I can’t believe we’re really moving. Away from everything! It just isn’t fair.” Kyla stood up and went inside to get one last look at her old room. She walked down the cold empty hallway glancing at the bare walls that used to be filled with pictures of their family, a photo of their dog, and an owl clock that would go: hoo! Hoo! At every hour. Kyla remembered a time when she was three or four and asked her dad to lift her up, so she could see the owl’s eyes go back and forth. She also remembered her being afraid the first time. She remembered her dad’s beard, brown and scratchy. 

I miss Dad. She thought. She stood there lost in thought for a moment, when Mica peeked her head out from her open doorway. “Hey Kyla! Gonna help me or not?” Kyla tried to blink away her bad memories and answered, “sure I’ll be right there.” 

Kyla was thirteen and her sister Mica was ten. Sometimes they could fight so hard. But sometimes they were the best of friends. 

Kyla walked in and saw Mica sitting on the carpet less floor. 

“I thought you were working,” Kyla said. “I was a minute ago. Right now I was just thinking about how nice it will be when we go back to being a family.” Kyla closed her eyes and hoped she couldn’t believe what her sister was saying. “What do you mean, when we go back to being a family?” “Aw, you know, when Mom gets married again.” Kyla turned to leave so upset. “I can’t believe this! Mom’s not gonna get married again! How could you even think about something like that? You want Mom to just completely forget Dad and just marry someone else? You want a stepdad when you could just have your real one? I don’t understand!”

With that, Kyla rushed out the door and went outside crying.

To be continued

Prince & Princess of Ireland

   Chapter  Six- The  First   Step  of  the  Journey

Torin woke up. Had all that talk been a dream? No. Torin looked around the room. He was in one of the many rooms in the mansion. Torin woke up Elda.

"Elda, psst. Psst!" Elda sat up. 

"What are you pssssssting me for?" She said crossing her arms.  

"Never mind about that. We have to leave." 

"Already? The sun's not even up. What about breakfast? We have to say goodbye, and pack some food."

"And pack some food we will, so let's go." 

"We didn't even ask, Torin! That's not the Irish way to steal someone's food."

A mischievous grin lit up Torin's face. He said three words and then hopped up from the bed.

"We're not Irish." Was all he said. Elda tightened her fists. 

"Ohh, alright. You win this time. Let's go."

      The two snuck downstairs and packed some sandwiches, dried fish, and some other stuff. They put it in a bag and headed out. They walked for a while in silence and then Elda spoke up.

"Do you think there's really a castle waiting for us?" She said, her voice sounding unsure. 

"Of course there is. I'm sure there will be food. In fact..........." Torin hesitated. "There's going to be a lot of food. Good food too." He held his stomach.

He secretly reached his hand into the bag and carefully-

"Ohhhh no you don't!" Elda slapped his hand.

"Hey, what was that for?" Torin said rubbing his hand.

"We have to savor the food for as long as possible. Now, no touching it, or I'll slap ya again. You hear me?"

Torin crossed his arms. 

"Whatever." He mumbled under his breath.

They finally reached the shore and their boat was still there. They got in and began rowing. The sun was now peeking over the trees and they began to row faster. They rowed and rowed forever until they saw what they thought was land. They rowed closer and found that it was land. They had been rowing for a whole day and a half now. They were very far from the mansion.

When they reached the island they spotted a campfire. Torin whispered to Elda.

"Look. There's people here. Be on your best behavior. And also, let me do the talking!" 

"Fine. I won't talk unless you say something stupid." 

"Fine."

"Good."

The two walked closer and closer to the campfire crouching behind bushes and trees, trying to not be seen. They kept sneaking and sneaking until they heard a sound, and felt something grab their-

Sorry! I guess you have to wait 'til Friday to find out!

Have a nice week!

-Elena 

Sneak Peek

 Hi everyone! I thought it would be fun to share a sneak peek of the next series.

When the real chapter comes out out, it will be much longer. Anyway, I hope you 

enjoy!

-Elena 

C H A P T E R   1—C H E S T N U T   M A R E   &   T H E   T A L K

Hadassah brushed the mare’s soft coat. It was smooth with the color of chestnut. That was Hadassah’s favorite color for a horse. Hadassah wanted her own horse one day. But she knew her parents would never allow her. She knew they had enough money and space, but for some reason Hadassah felt her parents didn’t want her to be happy. A beautiful chestnut mare was just what she wanted more than anything else in her life. Not to breed for financial reasons, or bring it to carnivals and fairs to win ribbons—but just to have as a friend. A friend to talk to when no one else is around. A friend to go to, when her parents seem like she’s in their way. 

Hadassah picked up an empty bucket that sat on the ground and filled it up with water from the well. She attached the bucket to the rope that was wrapped around the arch of the well and lured it up After the water seeped into the bucket, she pulled up the rope and detached it from the bucket. She picked it up and headed back to the little stable. She poured the cool water into the trough. The mare neighed happily and dipped its nose into the medal tub. Hadassah sighed. “I wish you were mine.” She whispered under her breath. She knew she could never get the mare, even if she was allowed. The mare wasn’t for sale. She was owned by a man named Harris Heartwell. He owned a tackle shop near Hadassah’s house and after saving up for years and years, he bought a stable and a horse. That horse was Hadassah’s best friend. One day, Harris wanted to get many horses and open up his own ranch. He wanted it so bad, he lived in a tiny house with a few acres of farm. He could’ve bought a fancy house with a hundred acres, but instead he chose to live simply and buy a small place to live. When Hadassah was older, she wanted to do the same.

Hadassah blinked back to real life. Her father was calling her. 

“Hadassah! Come inside! We’ve got to talk to you!” 

Hadassah sighed. “I’m sorry, girl. I’ve gotta go.” Her arms left the mare’s warm head and Hadassah walked back to the house. The reason her and her family were at Harris’ home, was because he was off on a road trip with his wife and two kids. The Rudders were looking after his farm and caring for his horse. 

Often Hadassah thought about Harris and his family. She wished so dearly that she could be part of those trips they took. The laughter they shared, the joy that filled their home. Hadassah was lonely with no siblings and no friends, but the chestnut mare. Her parents were always on business meetings and having important phone calls. Hadassah was always left out. Whenever she went someplace social or in public, (which took place very rarely) she was always just there. But she was never actually a part of anything. But Hadassah accepted it and chose to be friends with the characters in the books she read and the animals she knew and loved.

Long Ride of 1842

The Long Ride of 1842

April 9th

Kate walked in the door, loud and bustling as always. She went to her sister, who was sitting at the table drinking tea. She looked up and smiled. “Hi Kate” Was all she said. Kate rushed to her chair and splattered out the news.

“Shayla! Did you see what the papers said?” She exclaimed loud and excitedly. Shayla’s face became serious. “Yes Kate. I saw them this morning.” 

“Well then? Are we going to help make meals, for the travelers?” Shayla hesitated. “Well, I might not have the time.” 

“What do you mean, Shayla? We do it every year.” Shayla sighed. “Kate. I decided that I’m going to go along. This whole trip the community does every year, is for a reason. It’s to explore new lands and see where the Indians are, and if we can settle there. I have to see if we can claim some land.” 

“But, what about Paul—” “I know what happened to Paul.”

“But—” “I know, Kate.”

Kate cried and finished her sentence. “Paul died, going on that trip. Because of that trip across the country, we don’t have a big brother anymore. It’s bad enough, without Paul, and Mama and Papa. But you too?” Shayla wiped away one of Kate’s tears. “Look Kate. I know it’s hard. But we can’t stay here. It’s not enough food and land. That’s why I need to go with the community to see the undiscovered plains where only Indians and wild game roam. It’s for the best.” 

Kate sniffled. She was only fourteen. She was scared of being left alone for months. And she knew she couldn’t go along. 

April 12th

The days passed, and the two girls went to the center of the village where the travelers were readying their horses and their families were packing food and water inside their leather bags. Kate was one of them. She buttoned the last button on the goatskin bag and patted the horses’s side. She hugged the soft horse’s head and more tears spilled out from her eyes. She couldn’t bear to face Shayla. She was so afraid of something happening to her. 

Just then, the man in charge of the group got on his horse and yelled out to everyone. 

“Attention please!” He called out. He looked very tough and firm. 

“We have one drop out. Lars Grantsfield will not be joining us. He’s very ill. Our prayers will be with him. There is now an extra spot available if any able bodied citizen would like to join.” 

Kate’s eyes widened and she jumped up and down. “Me! Me! Sir, pick me!” Shayla slapped her hand. “Stop that! Start acting like a fourteen year old!” She whispered harshly. But it was no use. The man named Henry Carson heard the girl’s voice. 

“What about you, young lady?” He asked. Kate stepped forward. “I’m able bodied. I can ride a horse, and I can help.”

The man looked at Kate. But before he could talk, Shayla pushed herself through the crowd, to the front of the lines. 

“Please sir, I’m her sister, I know how she’ll be. She’s just a child, please don’t allow her to come along. Please, our brother, sir. He died going on one of these trips. I’m just trying to spare her.” 

For the first time, Kate actually felt very sorry for her big sister, and almost cried. 

The man sighed, and finally decided. “Kate. You can come along.” Shayla almost cried. Kate’s eyes widened. “Really? I can come?” She jumped up and down and gave Shayla a big hug, who was still in shock of what happened. But Shayla turned away. “Go Kate. You got what you wanted. Now leave me alone.” Her face was red and hot with frustration.

The travelers mounted upon their horses and said yelled their final goodbyes. The journey was on. Shayla looked down, one by one, a tear streamed down her face. Kate rode next to her. “Shayla.” She said getting closer. “Why are you so mad at me?” Shayla looked away. “Because it’s dangerous! You are just a child! Indians could slaughter you, or worse, marry you! They’d kill me if they found out we were sisters, and if not—” “What’s all that yackin’” He yelled looking back on the long line of horses. “You, girl! Get back in single file!” He was talking about Kate. Naturally. 

Kate urged her horse back to the end of the long line. The first miles seemed to go on forever. When they got to mile 17, they stopped and set up camp. They had stopped plenty of times to give their horses a rest and drink water and eat a little. But now, they were to open the night. Kate thought this was very exciting. They set up tents and all gathered around a campfire. One of the people there was a man named Jason Farrell. Kate believed he was a real cowboy. He wore dusty cowboy boots and a cowboy hat that sat on top of sandy colored hair. He even had a silver pistol hanging from his belt. Kate was amazed. He would often tell stories about his time as a cowboy. Kate was mesmerized by his stories, until Henry told her about his real job. The man named Jason Farrell was Henry’s nephew and worked at a postal service. Kate was very disappointed. But riding across the country to deliver mail was still interesting. Kate imagined herself riding on a black stallion, racing across the country in time to deliver important mail. She would be a hero. Even Shayla would be proud of her. Kate dazed off, just thinking about it.

April 13th

Kate blinked and sat up. Had she fallen asleep that quickly? Some were already on their horse, and some were still cleaning up camp. The breakfast was all finished but one unbuttered biscuit. Kate groaned and laid back down. 

      Days went by that turned into weeks. Soon tragic things began happening. A sickness was spreading and some were so sick they had to go home. Some even died. Shayla was one of those people. 

On April 27th, She hugged Kate before she went, but she couldn’t stop what was coming. Kate sobbed dearly but couldn’t hug her again. Henry told Kate, that she would catch the sickness as well. 

As days went by, Kate was silent. She felt sick as well, but tried to hide it. Until Henry told her the news.

May 17th

“Kate. I’m sorry. But you have to go home. You’re too ill. You’re to weak to go on. Especially without Shayla. I can see it in your eyes. Nickolas Heartwell is taking the sick ones home. I’m afraid you must be one of those people.” Kate was once again silent. She knew he was right. She said nothing, but nodded her head slowly. Henry went on. “Kate, I may not see you for a while. I’m sure the townspeople will find a home for you.” Kate again nodded and Henry helped her on her horse.

May 18th

Kate had been riding with the sick ones for a whole day now. They had to stop extra times because the weak travelers needed lots of time to rest. They finally reached their home town with fewer people. Some had died while on the road. Luckily Kate was getting stronger, but just a little bit. She was taken back to her home to rest and the doctor assisted her. When she was completely well, she moved into the house of Mrs Carson, Henry’s wife. At the time when the travelers were first leaving, Mrs Carson, also known as Janet, had hurt her leg and couldn’t go along. Now she was fairly better and Kate helped take care of her. Exactly nine months later, Henry returned home. He was now Kate’s father. The two lived a happy life with their daughter. Kate was well and happy.And when she thought about her parents, her brother, and Shayla, instead of crying long, hard tears, she felt peace. She always remembered her long ride of 1842, until she was 94 years old, and she died.

Heads Up!

Hello Again! 

Today I won't be posting a chapter, but from now on, instead of posting a chapter every Wednesday and Friday it's just going to be every Friday. I don't want it to be hard to catch up with, and most days I am very busy. 

With the next story (series) I'll be writing, it will only be once every two weeks, because the chapters will be longer, and more well written. (A bit for older ones, such as ten or eleven up.....) 

Also, I know I said there will be chapters every Friday, but some Fridays, it just might a short story, or both. I don't want to only include chapters for long ongoing stories, I also want to include some stories with no chapters, that are just fun to read.

Just wanted to give you all a heads up.

-Elena

Prince & Princess of Ireland

   Chapter Five- Destiny Changed 

Torin turned around to see a girl standing there. She had long brown hair with a pink bow tied up in it. She looked very fancy. She wore a golden chain around her neck and a fancy white dress. She looked thirteen. 

"Who are you?" Elda asked, impatient for the girl to respond.

"You don't know? I'm Isabelle." She said. She looked at Torin, and smiled. Elda noticed and stepped right in front of him.

"What do you mean, 'you don't know'?" Elda said. "The girl laughed. "I'm your cousin, from Britain. We would always play together, don't you remember?" 

"You sure don't sound, like you're our cousin. You don't sound Irish at all."

The girl laughed again. "Well, I'm not Irish, silly! I was a princess in Britain, until-oh, that fateful day!" Torin stepped closer. "What happened Isabelle?" He said, his interest growing.

"That was the day my Papa died. And our castle burned down to the ground. Everyone was dead-except us, of course. But everyone else thought, we were also dead. So they didn't even bother to rebuild the castle! And now we're stuck on this wretched island!" The girl burst into (rather dramatic) tears. Torin pulled out a handkerchief and handed it to her. Elda's mouth dropped open.

After the girl was done her sobbing, she sniffled and said, "let me show you my mother. She's Irish. Maybe she can tell you about your-......I shouldn't say any more."

Torin and Elda exchanged glances and followed Isabelle down a long dark hallway. She kept walking, until they reached a big open room, with windows that reached to the ceiling. A big desk was there and a lady with glasses sat there writing. 

"Mother," Isabelle said. "They're finally here." The two twins looked at each other again, this time a lot more confused.

The lady looked up and opened her mouth to talk, and then pointed at them. "You-what? Ar-are you re-really it?" She looked so excited, she could explode. "I'm sorry, what?" Torin asked. The lady clapped her hands, ran over, and smothered them in a big bear hug. "Yay!" She said. 

"We're not sure we understand." Elda said. 

"You don't? Oh-oh. Oh! Yes, I understand, it's just that-they never told you?" 

"Never told us what?"

"Y-you're not Irish." 

"What? We speak Irish." "Oh, yes, that's because you grew up in Ireland. But really, you're Scottish. "Scottish?" "Yes, Scottish indeed. Well, um....lets sit down and talk a bit."

They four sat down and the lady began. "First things first. I'm your Aunt Darla. I'm Irish, but you're Scottish. Also, your parents....um...they were never your actual parents. They took you in when you real parents died."

The twins looked down. Torin then asked. "But why were you so flabbergasted to see us?" Aunt Darla grinned and said. "Don't ya worry. We'll get to that part, soon enough." She began again. "Your home is in Scotland, many miles from here. I'm afraid you'll have to be leaving tomorrow." "But how did you know? What if we're the wrong people? And what were the coins for?" 

"Oh the coins! You found each one?" "Yes." "Then you truly are the right twins. Are you ready for the biggest surprise of your life? You two are royal." Everyone was silent. "You two are prince and Princess of Scotland. Your castle's still there, waiting for you! You have to go, my friends. Your destiny's been unleashed!" Elda hung her mouth open and Torin's eyes widened with excitement. "Truly?" They asked together. 

"Very truly." They both hugged Aunt Darla. "Now wee ones. Rest up, and tomorrow you'll begin your journey to regain the crown. Now my darlings, go to sleep and build up your strength."

    

Someone Bigger

 

Here's a song, that I wrote, and I turned it into a poem, that I 

thought would later go with my story. I hope you all like it!

I used to love

to look upon the ocean.

It gave me strength

to see its mighty waves.

Or go exploring through 

woods and everlasting forests

or bring a friend and explore ongoing caves.

I'd climb a mountain

hear breezes call

I'd run up a hill, see a water fall

I'd long for adventures,

the sights I could see, 

but never knowing,

Someone's bigger than me.

I couldn't imagine 

Someone bigger than the mountain.

Or Someone mightier than the roaring waves.

So instead of longing for places on earth,

I'd grab my guitar and see,

If it's worth,

to long for a place that the world cannot provide.

I'll shout it out, and sing to the sky 

That the wonder of existence

is the Lord Most High!

 

The Angel- A Short Story

 

Here's a short story for you all to enjoy!

T  h  e   A  N  G  E  L

—B  y    E  l  e  n  a    D  e  n  v  e  r—

I stood by the cold, flooded road, waiting for the school bus to arrive. It seemed the bus would never come. I put my hood on and bit my fingernails, shivering intensely until finally the bus was here. I jumped, on quickly with my friend, racing to the back seat, so only us, could have the view, of the back, and the room, to move around. We put our feet, up against the back of a seat, and closed our eyes. Just then, a small voice, interrupted us. It was my little sister Daisy. 

“What do you want, Daisy?” She trembled, as she talked. “Well, I though I might sit, back there, with you and Jonathan.” I sat up, angrily, elbowing my friend, to sit up, as well. “Does, it look like there’s enough room?” She knew there was plenty, of room, but she stuttered, and said, “the—there—there’s no r—room.” Jonathan rolled his eyes. “Obviously, the answer is no, then.” he said. 
Daisy, turned around, and sat back down. I put my feet, back up against her seat. 
“She’s so annoying,” Jonathan whispered. “Well, at least, you don’t have to live with her, that’s the hard part.” I whispered back. When the bus, dropped me and Daisy back home, we ran inside, and Daisy gave Mom, a hug. Mom always held her hands out for me, but I always shook my head, and went up to my room, without saying a word. I stomped upstairs, up to my room, and plopped on my bed. I finished up my homework, until Mom called me for dinner. 

“Craig! I made your favorite! Tacos!” I rolled my eyes, and said, “that was Dad’s favorite.” I didn’t mean to make Mom feel sad. She wiped away a tear and said, “well, Dad’s not here, anymore. You and I are in charge, of keeping everything in its place.” I felt furious. She was acting like, Dad never existed, like he’s not here anymore. I stomped back upstairs, and slammed my bedroom door. I just couldn’t be happy. There was no reason to, anyway. Ever since Dad left, none of us, could be truly happy. But I was the only one, who couldn’t be happy at all. 
My Dad left, two years ago, and went to California. I was in bed, thinking about the park, he promised to take us. When I woke up, cops were at our house. They told us, he ran away, to California, and was shot. 
Being twelve, two years is nothing. I remember, every word, the policemen said, all the questions they asked, and every answer, Mom gave them. She was crying, and fell on her bed, holding Daisy. 
That night, I wanted to run away, I remember our last conversation, with him. He seemed normal. I would have never thought, in all my life, that he would just abandon us and die, the very next day. He told Mom, “I was thinking, of going to the park, tomorrow, and having a picnic. It would be nice, to have some family time.” Mom dried her hands, off with the dish towel, and said, “you go, take the kids, I’m gonna be helping Grandma today.” Me and Daisy jumped up. “The park?” “Really?” Dad picked Daisy up, and answered, “really, I promise.” 
I never forgot that day. He just left us, like we never existed. 
Knock, knock, I jumped up, and opened the door. “Daisy, I’m not—” It wasn’t Daisy. It was just Mom. “Yes?” I said. Mom came in, and sat on my bed. She looked nervous. “Um, Craig, I have to talk to you.” I sat down next to her, looking rather confused. “What?” “You know, that Dad died two years ago, and we were very sad—” “Were? I know you and Daisy don’t care, but I never got over it.” Mom looked down, at the floor. I wanted to bite, the words, right back into my mouth, the second they were said. “Mom, I didn’t mean—” “I know exactly, what you meant,” she told me. She went out, and shut the door.
It was Saturday, morning. I went outside, and down the street, to where the mailboxes were. I put my hands in my pocket, and my hood, over my head. The bitter wind, blew against my face, as I walked. I turned my head, to the sound of distant sirens, blaring across town. I wasn’t looking where I was going, and bumped into a girl, holding a handful of books. And that was the day my life would change forever. “Oh, sorry.” I said, and picked them, back up. I grabbed the last book, that was now ruined from the rain. “I’m so sorry, I can replace anything—” I paused.  I shouldn’t have said that. I can’t replace anything. “Oh, no, that’s okay. I have about a hundred, copies of this book.” I picked it up, and examined it. “The Bible? Seriously? Why do, you need a hundred copies, of this? Isn’t one enough?” The girl laughed at me, like I was stupid. “You can never have too many Bibles, silly! This is the word of God. Would you like one?” “No, thanks. It’s enough, already, to have my history book, I don’t need an even bigger one.” The girl examined me. “What is your name?” “I’m Craig. Why do you ask?” “I’m Jen, short for Genevieve, and I work, at the B—I—B—L—E, across town.” “You mean, that store, next to the red mailbox, for toddlers?” “That’s the one! Only, it’s not for toddlers. It’s for people, like you.” “Me? Look, I apologize, for bumping into you, but I best be going.” “Okay. But say hi, to your mom for me!” I turned around, instantly. “How do you know my mom?” “Why, she works there!” My face looked suspicious. “She what?”
I walked home, without the mail, and into the kitchen, where Mom was. “Mom, why didn’t you tell me about, your job? You said you worked, at the library!” “I used to.” “Well, why didn’t I know, that?” “I didn’t think, you cared about that old, little store.” I didn’t know what to say. She got me there. 
Mom turned around, holding a mixing bowl, in one hand, and a spoon, in the other. “You have to take a shower, today.” “What? I took one, last Saturday.” “We’re having a guest.” “Wait…….what?” We hadn’t had any company since Dad died.
      Why today? I slunk down, into my chair. “Who’s coming over?” Mom, put a cake, in the oven, and ran upstairs. “Sorry honey, I’m busy!” Busy enough, not to tell me, who it is?

After taking a shower, and tidying up the house, the doorbell rung. I ran to the door quickly. “Yes?” “Hi, “It’s great to see you, again!” Oh, no! “Did my mom, really invite you over?” “Yup, Sure did. Can I come inside?” “That’s why, you're here, isn’t it?” I said, holding the door open.
Daisy jumped up, from her puzzle, and ran up to Jen, giving her a hug. “Genevieve!”
I stared intensely. What’s going on? How does everyone know her? I’ve never seen her, in my whole life!
Genevieve looked up, at me. “You don’t have to be mad, Craig.” I looked at her, like she was dumb. “Look. This is the second time, I’ve ever seen you, in my entire life. I’m not mad I’m just overwhelmed, that’s all.” “I know you are. But praying always helps.” My mouth dropped open. “For one, how did you know? And for two, no. Praying does not help.” 
Genevieve stood up. “Praying saved your dad.” That was it. I had enough. “That’s a ridicules lie. Dad is dead, no thanks to you. Praying didn’t do anything! Praying doesn’t do anything! And besides, what do you know about my Dad?” “A lot of things. But that’s not the point. The point is, to trust me, and listen to what I need to say. If you don’t- bad things will happen. Things you can't stop.” “What are you, even talking about? Look, I just met you. I don’t need to do anything. Goodbye.” By that time, Mom was in the kitchen, standing there. Genevieve kissed Daisy on the forehead, picked up her book, and left. 
“What was that all about?” I said. “You’ll be sorry one day.” Mom said, and left. Am I going insane?

It was Sunday. We never went to church, since Dad died, but today, Mom and Daisy were all dressed and ready, when I woke up. “Since when do you go to church?” “Jenna invited us!” Daisy jumped up. “Jenna? Do you mean Genevieve?” “Yes, that’s right. You’re welcomed to join us.” Mom said. Mom sounded pretty upset. Should I just go? Mom is pretty mad at me. “Fine. I’ll come.” Daisy ran over, and hugged me. “Really?” “Yeeeaaah………I guess so.” Mom laughed. “Go get ready then!” I’m gonna regret this, I thought.
A few hours later, we arrived back at home. Church wasn’t that bad. I never liked the idea, of being a believer. “Besides,” I started.  I have nothing to worry about. I don’t need to pray. That’s just stupid, I reassured myself.

Part Two

It was Monday. Somehow Jonathan found out, about me going to church. “What are you now, a believer? Are you that stupid?” Jonathan was now, hanging out with the school bullies. Before, I was pretty popular. But now, everyone teased me, about going to church. I was fuming inside. This, is what I get, for going to church? Thoughts tumbled through my head, and suddenly, my mom showed up, with a police officer.

I ran to the doors. “Mom, what’s wrong?” “It’s Daisy!! She’s been ran over! Come with me!” I jumped in the car, and the officer drove, as fast as he could. “Where’s the hospital?” I asked, impatiently. The officer, glanced at me, and answered, “right over there, son.” We drove into the parking lot, and rushed inside. We ran to the right room, and saw Daisy, on a bed, damaged very seriously. Is she—no. she isn’t! She is alive! If there is a God, then she is alive. Daisy opened her eyes, and looked around the room. “I can’t get up.” She said confusingly. “Mama, am I gonna die?” Mom began crying out loud. “I don’t know, darling! I just don’t know!” I stepped forward. “Daisy? Please don’t die. Everything I’ve ever said to you—I didn’t mean any of them!” Daisy smiled at me, and said, in her low voice, “tell Genevieve I said bye.” “What? No, Daisy! You’re not gonna die! Don’t say things like that! You’re just a kid!” “It’s okay, Craig. I’ll be with Jesus!” She tried to sit up, a little. “Do one thing, though. Win the baseball game, for me. Our team has nev—never won, before. And another thing.” Her voice was breaking up, more than ever. “Believe what Genevieve has to say.” Just like that. She closed her eyes, and dropped dead. “No! No! Daisy!” Mom burst out in tears, and began crying. 
I burst out in tears, and ran through the door. I ran out of the building, and into an ally, where I could be alone. “It isn’t fair! She did nothing to You! Nothing!” Just then, I heard footsteps. Behind me, was Genevieve. “Hi, Craig.” She said, wiping away a tear. “What do you want?” I said crying. “You got what you wanted!! Just leave me alone!” “I didn’t want this. You brought this upon yourself, Craig.” I was furious. “What are you trying to say?! This is my fault?!” “I’m afraid to say—” Genevieve nodded. I wanted to push her. “What is your problem?!” “It’s not my problem. It’s yours. I tried to warn you, but you took the easy path.” I heard a car pull up behind me. I turned around quickly, and saw the police officer’s car. 
“Are you okay, son?” He asked. “No! That girl—” Genevieve was gone. “Your mom wants you back, with her.” I nodded, and got into the car. He drove me, back to the hospital. My face expression was dim. So was Mom’s, who was still sobbing. “This is the worst day of my life.” I said quietly. 
Suddenly, I heard a voice. “Pray Craig, pray.” “I can’t! I can’t!” “You are not alone.” I realized it was God’s voice. God is speaking to me. I thought. Maybe I’ll just—fine. I’ll pray. 
Dear God—
“I can’t do it! He killed her, for no reason!”
“Read the Bible. The Word of God.”
I looked on the little table, next to me. What? That wasn’t there, before. I picked it up. It was open to Jeremiah 29, 
“For I know the plans, I have for you. Plans to give hope, and a future.” “Doesn’t seem like it.”
Then I flipped to, Deuteronomy 33,
“The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” Suddenly, I felt warm inside. The everlasting arms?
No! I had faith, but it’s all gone! 
“Faith can move mountains.” I heard a voice.
I went to John 16 and read, 
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, to whosoever believeth in Him, shall not perish, but have everlasting life.”
I wanted to cry. Mom came in, from the other room. “Craig. You need to talk to Genevieve.” I was angry again. “What’s so good about her? Why is she so Important, all the sudden?! I hardly even know her! She blamed me, for Daisy’s death, and said, I’m being punished!” “You are being punished.” “By who?” “By God. She told you to pray, and to trust Him, and to listen, but you ignored her! There is more to her, then you think!” I was creeped out, now. “What is there? Why is she so suspicious? Is she an angel, or something?” I said the last part, pretty sarcastically. Mom got up, and went to the other room, again. I was on my own.  
Two days later we went back to the hospital. Daisy was in some sort of casket.

    Part  Three

The game was on Tuesday. The funeral was on Thursday. Mom was talking to a man, who would help. 
He told Mom to pick a coffin. 
Daisy? In a coffin? She’s afraid of the dark!
I bent down, on my knees, and began my prayer again, alone in the bathroom.
Dear God, I paused, trying to think of what to say.
 I know I’m not deserving like other people, but what I’ve said about Daisy, and what I’ve said about praying—none of it is—totally true. Please just forgive me. I was wrong. I want to be a—” I paused. Do I really want to? I paused again and inhaled a deep breath. I want to be christian. Please help me. I’m not very good at praying. 
Please help Genevieve to stop pestering me. 
In Jesus’ name,
Amen 
“That was a good prayer. Only the last part wasn’t much needed.” Again, it was Genevieve. “Look, can I get a minute’s worth of privacy? I’m finally praying, now be on your way.” Genevieve smiled. She handed me an apron that said,
B—I—B—L—E— 
OPEN FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO JOIN!
SHINE GOD’S LIGHT FOR EVERYONE!
“You want me to work at the B—I—B—L—E?” “Yes. It would be good, for all of us.” I decided to take a step forward. “ Look Jen, you’re not normal. Something is wrong with you, and I deserve to know what. Genevieve told me to come closer. “Yes, you are right. I am not normal. But this is serious. You cannot speak of this, to anyone, under any circumstances.” I promised not to tell. “Craig. I was sent to earth, to help fix your family, and draw you closer to God.” “Are you saying, you were sent by God? Like……..you’re an angel?” “That is correct.” That explains a lot. I didn’t know what to say. “Well………um……that’s…….understandable……….?” Genevieve smiled, and reassured me, “If you pray and trust God, you’ll win the game.” 

And just like that, she disappeared. I went out of the room, and ran up and hugged Mom. It had been my first time in two years. “Genevieve is an angel. How did you know?” “She told me to switch my job, and repent to Jesus. Then, she revealed herself.” I was lost in thought. I didn’t know what to say. The game would be here soon. I decided to take Daisy’s place, and win it for her. If I could. “Mom. The baseball game. I’m gonna win it for Daisy.” Mom hugged me, and began crying. “Try  harder, than you’ve tried, in all your life.” She said through her tears.

It was the day, of the big game. 
“Team 5, over here!” I ran to the couch. “Let’s see, Ashley, Tyler, Emma, Joseph, Craig—Wait a minute, Craig, what are you doing here?” “I’m—I’m taking my sister’s place.” “Well, that was very good of you.” 
The couch told us what to do. I was already very good at baseball, so all I needed was to be told what to do, and I could win it.
Like I suspected, Jonathan was against me, on Team 7.  
I hit the ball, Caleb caught it. We kept playing and playing, until the miracle happened. We won. We finally won. Daisy’s team had won, for the very first time. Mom was very proud of me. “You won! You won! Craig, I’m so proud of you!” I hugged Mom and sighed. Then I heard a voice.   “I am too.” I turned around. It was Genevieve. “Hi Jen.” I said sheepishly. “Craig. You prayed, you had faith, and you trusted in God. For that, you are rewarded. 

She disappeared. I went around the corner, and heard someone calling. “Craig?” I froze. “Dad?!” I ran out the gate, and saw my own father standing there looking at me. “Craig!” “Dad! Dad you’re here! You’re really here!!” “Craig, it’s okay. I’m here now.” He reassured me as I cried and hugged him. “But—but—but you were dead. You were shot.” Dad looked down sorrowfully. “No. I was never shot. It was a big mistake. I  was taken to court, and I was told I couldn’t leave California. I ran out of money and—I was arrested. Please forgive me.” I kept crying. “Of course I forgive you. I love you Dad.” I said through my tears. “How did you get here?” I asked. “A girl, found me. She helped me, and told me that Jesus loves me. She comforted me, and told me you were here. Her name 
was—I forget.” “Genevieve? Was it Genevieve?” “Yes. Yes it was. How did you know?” I smiled, and looked back, to where she was. “She’s a friend of mine. The Angel.” 
The End.

H I   T H E R E!

So, It's not really edited or anything, and as you can see, I put 

WAY too many commas. (Whoops!) 

I hope you all enjoyed that!

I started writing this story about 2019, and kept writing for 

awhile, but grew tired of it. Then a few months later, I found it 

and began to add more. One day in the future, I hope to finish 

another one I'm writing now, that's called, 'The Missionary.' I 

started that, in 2020. It's a part two. 

Anyways, I hope you all enjoyed that!

-Elena

Prince & Princess of Ireland

  Chapter Four- At  Sea 

Torin woke to a thud. The boat bounced up and down from the little waves in the water. A bag of potatoes had fallen off the seat and onto his head.

He rubbed his eyes and looked around. "Oh no! Elda wake up!" He kept pushing Elda's shoulder. "Elda, get up!" Finally Elda sat up. 

"You just had to dream in my ear a couple times, didn't you?" She said. Torin motioned his head for her to look around. Elda looked all directions.

"This isn't grand. This isn't grand at all." Elda said worriedly. 

Torin laughed sarcastically. "Oh really? It isn't grand? We only drifted a couple hundred miles away, and now we're lost at sea, with no water and no food, except a moldy sack of potatoes. I think this is just lovely, don't you? And do you know what I also think? This was all your idea!" 

Elda's face grew red. "It's your fault you didn't think to maybe, wake me up, sooner!" 

"Wake you up, you-" Torin decided to not say anymore to his fiery tempered sister. Elda swung her red hair and faced the other way, her arms crossed.

About an hour went by and they were growing hungry. Suddenly the boat came to a large thud. The boat wasn't moving. 

"I'll go check it out." Torin said. He climbed off the boat and went under water. What he saw, almost made his unplug his nose. He came up for air and climbed back into the boat. 

Elda lifted up her eyebrows. "Well?" 

"Well, what?"

''Well, what did you see?"

"I saw a little boat, just like this one. It was crashed. There's shallow water here, so the boat was standing up straight. It only bumped into us." Elda patted his shoulder. "Look behind you!" 

"What?"

 "Just look!" 

Torin turned around, to see a huge island, just a few yards away. "We're saved!" They cried out. 

They used the oars and paddled back to shore. When they reached the sand, they both collapsed and felt the sand, so refreshing, after a few days at sea. When they finally stood up, they decided to looked around. But then Elda said, "Torin look, is that another coin?" They went over to where it was laying in the sand. "That it is." Torin said examining it. On it was engraved another letter.

E. "It must be for east!" Elda said. She took the coin and shoved it into her pocket. "Let's go." She decided.

They walked east for a while and stumbled across another coin that said, Don't give up yet.

E.

Torin and Elda exchanged glances. They kept on walking till they saw a sight for sore eyes. "It's a house!" "A very large one, in fact."

What they saw was a huge mansion just sitting in the forest. 

"I'll bet ya someone lives there, and they want us to keep following the coins." Elda said. They kept walking until they came to the door. They opened it very quietly and looked inside. It was very fancy inside, but very dark. "I don't think anyone lives here." Torin whispered. But then they heard something. Torin turned around to see................

To be continued