Thoughts That Win

[Jihadjoe]

The Right Word -

Outside the door,
Lurking in the shadows,
Is a terrorist.

Is that the wrong description?
Outside the door,
Taking shelter in the shadows,
Is a freedom fighter.

I haven't got this right.
Outside, waiting in the shadows,
Is a hostile militant.

Are words no more
Than waving, wavering flags?
Outside your door,
Watchful in the shadows,
Is a guerilla warrior.

God help me.
Outside, defying every shadow,
Stands a martyr.
I saw his face.

No words can help me now.
Just inside the door,
Lost in shadows,
Is a child who looks like mine.

One word for you.
Outside my door,
His hand too steady,
His eyes too hard,
Is a child who looks like yours.

I open the door.
Come in, I say.
Come in and eat with us.

The child steps in
And carefully, at my door,
Takes off his shoes.

~ Imtiaz Dharker

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