Poetry

The healing power of poetry

“I’m writing as if God put this pen and paper In my hand Opening my mind to words I can’t even understand”  [separator type=”space”] Hawa Fuesini’s poetry collection, “Nabila’s Garden: Love, Loss, Heartbreak and Redemption” reflects upon the journey of a sixteen year old Nigerian immigrant living in New York City. Instead…

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Poem: “My Sisters”

For my sisters everywhere who have suffered, or are suffering, sexual abuse. My sisters. Your little shoulders were meant to carry the lightness of innocence; the wonder of childhood. Your souls were meant to soar; tethered to the Divine, far above this lowly place. But a heavy burden was thrust…

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Dear Ethar

Dear Ethar, I’m sorry For every time I look at your hijab And stare Smile Stick my eyes to that Fabric substitute for hair Until you pass Eyes down Reluctant to look at me. I want to push my hand out In those moments Grab you by the arm Apologize…

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I’m tired of hijab

Ethar El-Katatney, an award-winning journalist, blogger, and author, wrote I’m tired of hijab. In it, she expresses her frustration about being defined by and reduced to her hijab. I’m tired of being the token “omg-look-such-an-articulate-awesome-non-stereotypical hijabi!” I’m tired of hijab taking up so much space in my life. I’m tired…

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Purpose

An errant crossbow, An accidental sniper hit, Friendly fire, A spray of bullets. Caught in the cross-fire. A boy fleeing from age-old enemies in the woods, Hidden behind his protector-father, the true target An elderly woman carrying home a heavy load of groceries Minding her own A Marine at the…

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