Learning to Breathe

AN ANGEL'S PLIGHT Racing through, headlong into the darkness, No reason to lighten the heavy brow. Encompassed by noise, disease and madness, While in unsteady hands lies a stretched bow. Though I am sure to miss the devil's mark, I'm obsessed with a burning desire To let go, let my arrow pierce the shark And watch the villainous world burn in fire. Pause! take a moment and let me restrain This hand chiseled in the Almighty's name. Must I sin and have my wings plucked in vain Only to play the devil at his game? Racing through, headlong into the darkness, A heart yearning for rays of forgiveness. - Maryam Kaleem

FOR PEACE Let there be stillness and serenity Let there be a fight against affliction, Let solemnity and thoughtfulness be Surrounded by a time for reflection. Where bodies and minds are engulfed in war, When innocent words remain unspoken, Faithful servants are afraid of the law, No! Is this the world we hoped to live in? Everyday villains are celebrated As great heroes to flocks of mindless sheep. Mocking, slandering, furious, livid, Selling freedom if your pockets run deep. Guns. Tanks. Bombs. Buildings sundered piece by piece. Amidst the noise, one voice - Let there be peace. - Maryam Kaleem