Hegira Olivia Brookfield

Hegira*

I can answer words that wound like knives, filling the air with ice; even if stung, I need only lie low, hug thewalls, muster my replies. Compared to yours, my slights are small.

You were exiled from home; the world watched as you trekked through deserts of shale, and black mountains glowered; your futures unknown, carrying your lives in sacks, running from tyranny with no way back.

I was drenched in sun, and roses were dressed in velvet pink, a last fling at Summer's end; I laughed, ate plenty and drank, not fearing to wear what I chose, or say what I think.

You had no voice, no words, yet I was blessed -

You had no words.

Olivia Brookfield

*Hegira –Arabic word meaning exodus from persecution -pronounced 'Hujra'.