SISTER STAR by suheir hammad
my sister
star
i chose you
wished on a light turned out
to be you
girl from across a room
you calm
i cross miles
your peach smile warms
my back grove lined
palms open and guiding
me home
reflection
eternal protection
maternal this bond word
made flesh spirit manifest
muscle strength no match
when i fall
you the catch
fly one
when i blue moon
you splendid sun
i shine to reflect
you so you see yourself
beautiful in my eyes
in another world we are
sitting children at our feet
plaiting hair dishing
rice in bowls of female bones
i fear no death
with you in my life
you forgive those who hurt you
i’ll hold your grudge for you
when we need them no more
we’ll take our pains
to the river honey
ourselves hum the vibration
we originate from
we’ve walked through
traps few escape holding hands tracing
the steps before us paving
a way for those who follow
we habibti are one
in ways no words can
illuminate no photo can illustrate
i am witness
to your age your
life in flame
in this brick world i
warm my soul by
your light by your
brilliant light