In plain sight

In plain sight,

Sorrow thickens in the air.

Shadows roam.

A father is killed, bidding no one farewell and no words left unsaid.

Children breathe in and die in a single breath.

Neighbors watch in silence.

Leaders fuel, condemn,

Or turn away and say indifferently, "It is none of our business."

While Gaza burns alive,

The wicked clap in a hall hollowed of humanity,

And others watch in pathetic slumber.

O, Gaza, you are the phoenix.

With wings of dust.

Fragile, yet you rise.

O, Gaza, you will prevail,

And the olive tree

Will touch the sky.

Even though the dust may settle, hope remains.

O, Gaza, your sun will break through

And make seeds under the rubble grow.

About the author

Lubna Ahmad Abu Dahrouj turned 24 years old two months into the war. She loves writing, and believes in the power of words.