By RTF Contributor Derek Hanisch

I looked in the mirror and smiled. With a little imagination I looked as if I belonged at Hogwarts. (more…)

by Editor Abbie Miller

A naïve 2 years ago, I wrote the following after having gotten my first real job:
“I’m really relieved. I was beginning to think I would be spending the next 2 to 4 years as a completely broke college student, worshiping morning, noon and night at the altar of Ramen, and clothing myself in thrift store threads.”

In hindsight, I think I jinxed myself. Those words were strangely prophetic. (more…)

by Editor Halee Matthews

Still bored, huh? Don’t worry, I’ve got more ideas.

6. Tutor. Even though school is out, some parents are trying to help their kids work on their math skills or iron out the wrinkles in their grammar. Whatever the case, pick a subject you’re good at and make good grades in, and let families know you’re willing to do a little tutoring. Just keep it fun and interactive. Then both the kids and parents will appreciate your skills. (more…)

by Editor Halee Matthews

It’s summer (just in case you missed the blinding sun and scorching heat). And now that you’re over the “woo hoo, no school” phase, you might find yourself a little bored. (Unless you’re in summer school, in which case, you have my sympathy.)

If you find yourself staring up at the ceiling, debating how to fill your time, here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Volunteer. Great causes are always looking for people to help them out. You could go with a longer term commitment, like several weeks, or just a few days; most organizations are flexible. (more…)

By Guest Writer Lydia Rule Collins

There I was, praying to God about the day. “Dear God…” Ok, I thought, I sound under control. “Please help me to manage my temper and give me wisdom so I can handle myself better…”

I suddenly stopped praying. I was trying so hard to keep it all together, when what I really needed to do was let go. It was time to be real. I broke down, cried, and told God how I really felt: I was angry, hurt, and upset. (more…)

By RTF Staff Writer Matthew Van Tryon

Zoe is a typical high school girl, who if you looked at for a second, you would assume had a typical teenage life. However, if you got to know her, you would find that… (more…)

By Staff Writer Arianna Zander

“How could you?” My words are ice. Tears decorate Taylor’s brown eyes, and she backs away two inches. Licks her lips, studying her pink nail polish instead of me. “I… I didn’t mean to. You know I’d never hurt you on purpose. I’m your best friend.”

I shake my head, and reach for the door handle. It’s cold, and I feel the shiver all the way to my toes. “No,” I whisper, closing my eyes. “Ex best friend.” (more…)

By RTF Staff Writer Kalli Simmerman

Ever done one of those trust exercises where you fall back and let a friend catch you?

Well I haven’t. It’s not that I don’t trust my friends. I would trust them wholeheartedly with certain things. Such as taking care of my things if I was gone, or handling my money, or my feelings given a certain situation.

However…

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