I was a teenager still when I got to know grief personally. I would sit alone in my room reminiscing about the memories we shared & I would write poems that came right from the heart, unlike the rhymes I wrote, which I believe are more of intellect than expression. 

As the year continues to run, the call continues with this month’s theme being “lost and found”. What are those events you have thoughts of constantly? Those emotions, those people, those opportunities? Have you that one poem that speaks to the heart of our theme? Then this call is for you.

for her sleep-sedated lambs who will awake later & demand flowers

...It didn't work out between us; What makes you think You have a better chance with Tomorrow?

So because I was ‘smart’ in class and a little rebellious, I got away with telling the teachers I would not do any of that reciting poems with other kids in class, which is a bad thing retrospectively, but I mean, utilize privilege when you can.

As the year continues to run, the call continues with this month’s theme being “Times!”. We have had many events to mark the uniqueness of this month in our  country and beyond and since poetry offers itself as an avenue to let out these emotions, we encourage you to use it as an outlet. As you know,  poetry wouldn’t complain.  Have you got that one poem that speaks to the heart of our theme? Then this call is for you.

 I’d never forget the day he died, Marzuq looked me in the eye and I saw how much pain he was in. He was just nine months old. He was laid on the bed, as usual on his back for his siesta.

the loss of a father who was also a mother, the pain it carries when you lack the love that was once bestowed upon you and you were told to become a man. 

I would tear pages from my books and write what I felt. Unfortunately, my mum found the papers. I was beaten black and blue. I stopped talking and writing. I now write like my life depends on it, because it does.