Saturday, September 03, 2005

Terrorism or Dialogue and Justice?

The current wanton destruction of our world, has led to many campaigners struggling for a better world, often facing an uphill battle every day. In this final paragraph, I wish to quote a poem from Hafez, the 14th century Persian philosopher of love, a seeker of wisdom who became a poet of genius, a lover of truth who has transcended the ages. I think this poem will be a source of hope and inspiration to all of us.


Don't Despair Walk On


Josef to his father in Canaan shall return, don't despair walk on;
And Jacob's hut will brighten with flowers, don't despair walk on.


Aching hearts heal in time, vanished hopes reappear,
The disparate mind will be pacified, don't despair walk on.


As the spring of life grows the newly green meadow,
Roses will crown the sweet nightingale's song, don't despair walk on.


If the world does not turn to your whims these few days,
Ccosmic cycles are preparing to change, don't despair walk on.


If desperation whispers you will never know God,
It's the talk of hidden games in the veil, don't despair walk on.


O heart, when the vast flood slashes life to its roots,
Captain Noah waits to steer you ashore, don't despair walk on.


If you trek as a pilgrim through sands to Kaabeh,
With thorns lodged deep in your soul shouting why, don't despair walk on.


Though oases hide dangers and your destiny's far,
There's no pathway that goes on forever, don't despair walk on.

My trials and enemies face me on their own,
But mystery always backs up my stand, don't despair walk on.


Hafez, weakened by poverty, alone in the dark,
This night is your pathway into the light, don't despair walk on.


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