We Are Mothers

We need to pause and remember in America what brings us together, not what separates us.  I wrote this in 2006 and is it dedicated to sweet Dumia, who broadened my world as well as my taste buds for the seven years we were neighbors in Houston.  Her kindness and hospitality will forever be etched in my heart.     

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                       We are mothers, she and I,

                        She’s  Palestinian, I’m American,

                        She is Muslim; I am Christian.

                        She speaks Arabic, I speak English.  

                        We are mothers, she and I,

                        She loves her children.  I love mine.   

                        She birthed seven children, buried two.

                        I birthed two children, buried none.

                        We are mothers, she and I,

                        Her skin is dark. My skin is light.

                        Born worlds apart, living side by side,

                        From my front door, hers in clear sight.

                        We are mothers, she and I.

                        We laugh. We cry. We love. We live.

                        Our sons played, becoming best friends.

                        My home, her home, so much to give.

                        We are mothers, she and I.

                        Looking for wisdom, living with hope.

                        Of a future where love reigns higher,

                        All people see a kaleidoscope.

                        We are mothers, she and I.

                        We shop. We sip coffee.  We share.

                        Neighbors for a season, I still care.

                        Today for my friend, I say a prayer.

                        For peace, for hope, for faith

                        For all mothers, seeking a way

                        To a better future, a new path,

                        A world without strife,  love here to stay.