This issue is a special milestone for multiple Inkwell writers. For the seniors on our staff, “Repose” is the last issue of their college careers. We want to extend our congratulations to our graduating members: Clara Arai, Toria Leigh, Miranda Chapman, Renee Kalagayan, A. J. Klapperich, Stephen Ramsek, Emily Stevens, Anna Thompson, and Damaris Ziemski.
Compiling this issue was a bittersweet endeavor as our seniors contributed their last efforts to a project that started as an idea and flourished into a reality. But a measure of relief also exists—publishing a magazine, even online, is no small task. What better way for our seniors to complete their tenure than with repose?
We hope our seniors are (rightfully) content with their experience on the Inkwell staff and their time at BJU, and we pray this last issue of the academic year provides all of our readers with a reminder of the peace of God which surpasses understanding.
Lastly, a final message from our editor-in-chief, Renee Kalagayan:
“Repose” is the last issue that I have the pleasure of overseeing as editor-in-chief of Inkwell Literary Magazine. My two semesters as editor-in-chief are a highlight of my senior year. Indeed, Inkwell has been one of the greatest gifts of my college career. When I joined as a staff writer in the fall of 2020, I expected to gain only a platform to promote my work. What I found in addition was a loving community of like-minded writers who pushed me to develop myself both creatively and personally. This iron-sharpening-iron camaraderie is what sets Inkwell apart from other literary publications. I witnessed not only my own progress both as a writer and a person, but also the professional progress of multiple staff writers after I accepted a content editor position in 2021. I’m so grateful for the tangible reminder Inkwell provided—that believers can and must grow in grace. I can’t praise the Lord enough for His goodness and kindness to the Inkwell family. What a gift it is to have a special space for creative writers, designers, and editors to use their artistry and skill! Together, we’ve created something good and beautiful. I pray this seedling publication can flourish into a deeply rooted tree that blesses Bob Jones University for years to come. To my staff—thank you for your excellence in craft and communication, and for allowing me the experience of leading our little band of creatives. Thank you for making Inkwell a refuge and my college experience a joy.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.” —2 Corinthians 13:11 NIV