Synchronized Chaos’ First February Issue: Paying Attention

Image c/o Linnaea Mallette

First of all, published poet and contributor Tao Yucheng is still hosting a poetry contest, open to all readers of Synchronized Chaos Magazine.

Synchronized Chaos Poetry Contest: We seek short, powerful, imaginative, and strange poetry. While we welcome all forms of free verse and subject matter, we prefer concise work that makes an impact.

Guidelines: Submit up to five poems per person to taoyucheng921129@proton.me. Each poem should not exceed one page (ideally half a page or less). All styles and themes welcome. Deadline for submissions will be in early March.

Prizes: First Place: $50 Second Place: $10, payable via online transfer. One Honorable Mention. Selected finalists will be published in Synchronized Chaos Magazine.

Next, poet Yucheng Tao’s new chapbook, The Mirror Image of Death, has just been released from Alien Buddha Press! People can order it here.

J.J. Campbell’s new book To Live Your Dreams is also out and available to order here.

Welcome to this month’s issue, Paying Attention.

Across poetry, fiction, essays, memoir, and scholarship, this issue asks what it means to live attentively: to create honestly, remember faithfully, love fully, and choose responsibility in an impermanent world.

Image c/o Omar Sahel

Jacques Fleury honors the many contributions of Black Americans to society and argues that the United States still needs to celebrate Black History Month due to their lack of knowledge of essential history and context.

Sayani Mukherjee presents spring as both gentle and haunting, reminding us that loss and regrowth are both intimate parts of our experience. Berdirahmonova Shahlo Sherzod qizi expresses poignant longing for the return of joy and love in the spring. O’giloy Kucharova celebrates the social and natural renewal of spring as Christina Chin’s haikus evoke winter’s precarity and solitude. Brian Barbeito’s work dissolves boundaries and outlines in the dark of night and the way the rain falls everywhere, inspiring an open, receptive state of mind. His next piece evokes a chilly and aesthetically under-defined winter day.

Ma Yongbo’s wintry and tough-minded poetic cycle poses the question of what it means to keep creating when permanence and perfection may be impossible. Lan Xin’s pieces honor restraint, the diversity of life, and working with the natural rhythm of life’s seasons. Mykyta Ryzhykh calls attention to how both death and rebirth in nature bring us out of our ponderings and back to the present moment. Sterling Warner draws upon fresh and salt water and psychological and physical weather Linette Rabsatt’s poems take joy in letting go of the conscious mind and listening to the natural world as a source of inspiration. Joseph Ogbonna meditates on the stillness and inspiration of an early dawn. Gezim Basha, in work translated by Marjeta Rrapaj, celebrates tender love and living an authentic life. Yo’ldosheva Zinnura writes of the need to care for and consider our impact on the environment and climate.

Mehreen Ahmed’s work explores art, creativity, complicity, and displacement. Alan Catlin’s ekphrastic poetry crafts scenes of still life interrupted by violence and chaos. Bill Tope’s short story critiques immigration enforcement violence in the United States through the terror of one wrongly targeted victim. Kelly Moyer’s absurdist, provocative video speaks to the same topic as Leticia Garcia Bradford offers a local perspective and Pat Doyne brings strident satire to the issues of the day. Umid Najjari offers a poetic tribute to those who lost their lives in the Iranian revolution. Sungrue Han’s poems evoke alienation, dislocation, and collective and individual trauma. Mahbub Alam decries human greed and the destruction of other humans and the natural world and encourages care and respect. Virginia Aronson draws attention to modern crimes committed by government agents and by international criminal gangs, suggesting a comparison.

J.J. Campbell brings his signature blend of hard-earned cynicism and exhaustion. Scott C. Holstad snatches bits of sweetness and color from complex and artificial modern life. Türkan Ergör reminds us of our mortality and vulnerability to various human struggles. Like a wanderer tiptoeing through dimly lit rooms in a house, Carl Scharwath’s poetry moves from loss to relief to conscious acceptance of stillness. Allison Grayhurst’s poetic cycle sheds, releases, and re-forms visceral emotions. Dr. Prasanna Kumar Dalai’s work carries the quiet dignity of someone who feels deeply but speaks carefully.

Image c/o Kai Stachowiak

Mesfakus Salahin’s work addresses the alchemical transformation of formless feeling into legible thought through poetry. Shakespeare Okuni’s poem highlights the role of ritual and performance in meaning-making. Alex Johnson sets out a manifesto for artistic openness and an aesthetic that welcomes diverse sources of inspiration. Stephen Jarrell Williams evokes life, innocence, joy, and energy in his restrained pieces. Rus Khomutoff’s piece is at once overabundant, technical, and tender, perhaps more intended to be entered into than understood.

Abbas Yusuf Alhassan’s ars poetica explores the various forms poetry takes in his mind and how inspiration hits him as an artist. Duane Vorhees probes desire, time, chance, and memory. Nurbek Norchayev meditates on nature, time, and the life of the soul. Michael Robinson’s essay is a lived testimony of fear, darkness, illness, strength, forgiveness, and survival. Maja Milojkovic speaks of her personal spirituality and closeness to God. Sarah Adeyemo also reaches for her faith for comfort and the strength to keep loving even through a time of desperation and grief. Patrick Sweeney’s one or two-line thoughts provoke head-scratching and evade easy answers. Texas Fontanella jumbles a variety of words and symbols into a static buzz. Grzegorz Wroblewski’s asemic pieces reflect a mind in motion, jumping and self-editing mid-thought from one idea to another.

Susie Gharib navigates the emotional landscape of power, voice, myth, and lived reality. Mark Young contributes a fresh set of altered technicolor Australian landscapes. Cristina Deptula observes and comments on Dianne Reeves Angel’s memoir of a creative life in film production, Every Restaurant Tells a Story. Federico Wardal celebrates the film legacy of Italian filmmaker Billy Wilder. Taylor Dibbert enjoys traveling despite occasional moments of personal embarrassment. Xo’jyozova Dildora looks to ecotourism as a way to sustainably strengthen local economies.

For travel in a more metaphorical sense, Abdugafforova Muslimaxon Akmalovna reviews Qobilon Shermatov’s fantastical children’s tale The Country Inside My Grandfather’s Stomach. This book addresses issues of personal character, as each person’s “interior” reflects who they are and how they behave.

Other authors look at individual and collective character and moral choice. Eva Petropoulou Lianou’s poems express her hopes for peace, understanding, compassion, and humanity. Gordana Saric echoes that hope, wishing for worldwide love, understanding, and reconciliation. Maftuna Sultonova reminds us of the infinite value and dignity of each person. Nigora Baxtiyorova analyzes infidelity as a theme in Uzbek literature. Xasanova Aziza Kumushbek qizi peers into even more Uzbek literature and finds a timeless warning about how one’s life and dignity matter even more than one’s reputation and fame. Journalist Elisa Mascia interviews Azerbaijani author Jakhongir Nomozov and he affirms the need for authors to master their craft and speak their truth regardless of passing fads or popularity. Solid work will stand the test of time.

Image c/o Claudia Wehrli

Dr. Jernail S. Anand suggests that a complete education not only teaches technical skills but also how to be a decent human being. Kodirova Shakhzoda highlights the cultural importance of Uzbekistan’s cultural values of compassion, courtesy, respect for nature, and courage.

Dr. Barbaros İrdelmen mourns love lost to human and societal pettiness, and to death. Bill Tope and Doug Hawley co-present a tale of loss, guilt, and redemption. Mehrinoz Tursunova’s bittersweet love poem prepares for an impending separation. Eshmatova Marjona Kamol qizi outlines ways social service systems can intervene to support children from dysfunctional families. Nurboboyeva Dilshoda Nodir qizi evaluates the psychological effects of divorce on children and suggests ways to help them through the transition.

Dildoraxon Turg’unboyeva reflects on childhood memories and her love for her departed grandfather. Gulsevar Mirzamahmudova honors her hardworking migrant laborer father for his care and determination, reflecting on how she misses him.

Malohat Ahmadjonova expresses love and gratitude for the hard work and dedication of her parents, who made sure she dressed well and received an education. Mashrabxo’jayeva Feruzakhon offers gratitude for the steady love and care of her parents. Nurullayeva Nigora Nurmurod qizi’s poem expresses her love and care for her mother, who has given her so much. Ismoilova Sarvinoz reflects on how much her parents have loved her over time and how she wishes to return the favor as they age. Shafkat Aziz Hajam fondly remembers the freedom and wonder of childhood, made possible by his caring parents.

Islamova Dilnoza Khamidovna gives thanks for a caring and steady friend as Rukhshona Khamzayeva shares her gratitude for a dedicated teacher. Zarifaxon Holiboyeva reflects on missing her family and her classmates in a young student’s piece full of tender affection. Toshpulatova Mehribonu Sherbek qizi rejoices in the love of her sweet sister. Alisherova Hurmatoy reflects on the power of her lover’s kind words to calm her spirit. Graciela Noemi Villaverde draws on elegant nature-inspired imagery to express her love. Chinese academic Bai Gengsheng pays tribute to his loyal and hardworking wife, acknowledging that her steady support over many years made his accomplishments possible.

Image c/o Omar Sahel

Aziza Xasanova compares waiting for the unfolding of love to allowing a fig tree to leaf out in its season. Lan Xin’s epic, mytho-romantic piece affirms the choice of embodied and temporal love over transcendence and divinity.

Ozodbek Narzullayev’s verse expresses adoration for his country as if it were his lover. Jahongirova Gulhayo Jahongirovna’s rhyming poem pays tribute to a man of deep loyalty, patriotism and integrity. Abduganiyev Shexrozbek discusses the inter-related nature of the Uzbek national concept, legal system, and spiritual values in shaping the culture.

Kudratova Nozima Bahromovna explores the narrative style of Uzbek writer To’gay Murod. Madina Jorayeva’s essay highlights the contributions of translator and critic Ozod Sharafiddinov to Uzbek and world heritage and literature. Shahnoza Ochildiyeva translates Ozod Sharafiddinov’s essay celebrating and analyzing the literary value of poet and translator Abdulhamid Sulaymon og‘li Cho‘lpon’s contributions to Uzbek literature. Nargiza Masharipova celebrates the cultural interchanges made possible by the migration of the world’s peoples. Sultonaliyeva Go’zaloy outlines some of the factors encouraging and driving migration. Ubaydullayeva Saodat celebrates the literary artistry and truth-telling of one of Uzbekistan’s greatest poets, Alexander Feinberg. Xayrullayeva Zahro suggests ways to preserve the high literary quality of the Uzbek language and not lose it to abbreviations and modernisms. Rizoqulova Parvina Ramzovna analyzes the relation between language and culture.

Munavvar Tlewbaeva speaks of the comfort she finds by reading books by authors who understand and write of her feelings. Odinaxon Qodirova highlights ways to encourage young people to read. Yusupboyeva Madina rejoices in the persistence of reading culture among young people. Turgunova Kh. suggests strategies for teachers to effectively communicate with young Generation Z students.

Karimova Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna suggests strategies for encouraging creative thinking in children. Jorabek Muhammadolimov raises awareness of how too much scrolling and flipping online can lead to difficulty concentrating. Choriyeva Oynur warns of the consequences of overuse of smartphones and the Internet. Roziboyeva Asilakhon speaks against digital surveillance and fear-driven self-censorship.

Image c/o Jon Luty

Isroilova Sarvinoz Maxmud qizi discusses how to use educational tools to teach young children mathematical concepts. Barnoxon Baxtiyorjon Yoqubova considers strategies for integrating physical play with learning arithmetic. Amirqulova Gulsevar discusses digital innovations in education. Daminova Sevinch Tuychi qizi highlights the enlightened wisdom and teaching of Uzbek children’s educator Abdulla Avloni. Lazokat Ortigaliyevna Pirmatova relates how participating in competitive mental arithmetic helped her to develop confidence and the ability to think on her feet.

Nilufar Ibroximova suggests how new Uzbek textbooks could be crafted and used to help young children develop critical thinking. Norquolova Madina highlights the value of learning a second language. Haydarova Mehribon outlines various methods for learning the Mandarin Chinese language, coupled with history and background of the tongue. Mansurova Shahnoza parses the finer points of verb conjugation in French as Xurramova Farangiz compares the process in French and Uzbek. Masharipova Sayyora compares proverbs in French and Uzbek and how they reveal cultural values. Nilufar Mo’ydinova outlines techniques for learning German through approaches from the field of translation. Najmiddinova Mekhrigul Najmiddin qizi delves into the intricacies of language translation. Abdurahimova Anora’s essay considers the impact of one’s first language on the process of learning a second language. Mengboyeva Baxtiniso Mamatqobilovna highlights the value of language teachers’ maintaining a culture of competence in spoken language.

Several contributors work and research in the language of other academic and professional disciplines. Lutfullayeva Shaxrizoda Faruxjon qizi outlines the current state of pneumonia diagnosis and treatment in young children. Mansurov Abdulaziz Abdullox ugli highlights the importance of preventive dental care in children. Fahriddin Akramov’s essay describes treatment for a variety of neurological conditions. Mamatqulova Mukarram Nuriddin qizi speaks to the life and academic stresses students endure and how to protect their mental health. Nasulloyeva Feruzabonu Akmalovna discusses the nature of scientific innovation and how to encourage it in Central Asia. Durdona Sharifovna Roziboyeva discusses the effects of the Herbst dental appliance on the upper airway.

Eshmurodova Sevinch explicates methods of improving deposit mobilization policies in commercial banks. Iroda Sobirova outlines basic principles of supply and demand in a market economy. Sobirova Iroda Abdulaziz qizi highlights strategies to foster innovative entrepreneurship. Mamadaliyeva O’giloy asserts her power and determination to become successful in academics and business.

Baxshilloyeva Nigina Bahodir qizi offers inspiration to young women seeking to live their dreams. Axmetova Dilnura Po’lat qizi outlines the historical and contemporary role of women in Central Asian societies. Sevinch Farxodova highlights the importance of gender equality and initiatives to that extent in Uzbekistan.

Image c/o Linnaea Mallette

Shahnoza Pulatova Makhmudjanovna outlines and describes how Uzbek society is modernizing politically, economically, and socially. Dilafruz Muhammadjonova expresses fervent pride in and hope for Uzbekistan and the desire for the nation’s youth to rise up and take their place. Priyanka Neogi outlines ways to overcome depression and apathy and keep working towards one’s goals. Ziyoda Murodilova highlights the importance of internal motivation and determination for students to achieve their goals. https://synchchaos.com/essay-from-orzigul-sherova-4/Orzigul Sherova presents, in a similar vein, her secrets to success through passion and hard work.

We hope that this issue inspires you to create your place in the world with intention and joy.

Poetry from Aziza Xasanova

Young Central Asian woman with dark hair up in a bun, a black coat over a white collared shirt, and yellow and black scarf.

Patience

The fig tree truly blooms — though people never see,

Its tender signs appear, yet hearts still fail to see.

Like feelings locked inside where no one else may be,

It whispers softly secrets days can never see.

Both peace and joy stand waiting — patient as they wait,

Dark eyes in tears hold love — silent as they wait.

A broken heart believes the fig will never meet its fate,

Yet all things bloom in time — everything must wait.

Xasanova Aziza Kumushbek qizi student at Tashkent economics and pedagogy university

Essay from Shahnoza Pulatova Makhmudjanovna

Young Central Asian woman with a pink patterned headscarf and a white top standing in front of a flag.

Shahnoza Pulatova Makhmudjanovna

International Islamic Academy of Uzbekistan

Faculty of Classical Oriental Philology

Department of Philology (Arabic Language)

4th-year student

Academic supervisor: Raziya Matibayeva 

Associate professor, Ph.D. in Philology

Department of Arabic Language and Literature

Uzbekistan International Islamic academy

NEW UZBEKISTAN: POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, AND SOCIAL REFORMS

Uzbekistan, located in Central Asia, has emerged as a key player in the region following its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since President Shavkat Mirziyoyev came to power in 2016, the country has entered a new era of reform, known as the “New Uzbekistan”. This period is characterized by significant political, economic, and social transformations aimed at modernizing the country and improving the lives of its citizens. The following sections discuss these transformations in detail, offering an overview of the key reforms that have taken place under Mirziyoyev’s leadership.

I. Political reforms and governance

The government of New Uzbekistan has prioritized political reforms to enhance transparency, decentralize power, and improve governance. Key changes include:

Decentralization of power: Mirziyoyev’s administration has shifted from a highly centralized government to a more decentralized system, empowering local authorities and giving them greater control over decision-making processes. This decentralization aims to improve accountability and bring governance closer to the people.

Judicial Reforms: Uzbekistan has undertaken significant reforms to strengthen the judiciary’s independence and improve the rule of law. These reforms include updating laws, creating specialized courts, and establishing greater protections for citizens’ rights.

Human rights and freedom of expression: The government has made efforts to improve human rights, releasing political prisoners and relaxing restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, and the media. Although challenges remain, these steps mark a positive shift toward greater political openness.

II. Economic liberalization and development

Economic reforms have been a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s transformation. The country has moved from a state-controlled economy to a more market-oriented model. Key aspects of this economic transition include:

Economic liberalization: The Mirziyoyev government has implemented various economic reforms, such as liberalizing foreign exchange controls, reducing state subsidies, and privatizing state-owned enterprises. These measures have encouraged foreign investment, spurred economic growth, and improved Uzbekistan’s competitiveness in global markets.

Industrial and agricultural modernization: The government has focused on modernizing key sectors, including agriculture, where reforms have been introduced to reduce dependence on state quotas, particularly in cotton production. In industry, there has been investment in infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing, which has laid the groundwork for future economic growth.

Foreign investment and global integration: Uzbekistan has become more attractive to foreign investors due to improvements in the regulatory environment and the simplification of bureaucratic procedures. The country has also worked to integrate more fully into the global economy by enhancing trade relations with neighboring countries and beyond, while diversifying its economy into sectors such as technology, tourism, and renewable energy.

III. Social policies and welfare

Social welfare reforms have been a central focus of the New Uzbekistan agenda, with a commitment to improving the standard of living for citizens. Key initiatives include:

Education reform: The government has worked to improve Uzbekistan’s education system, focusing on modernizing curricula, training teachers, and expanding access to quality education. Special attention has been given to STEM education to prepare the next generation for a modern, competitive economy.

Healthcare improvement: Healthcare reforms have focused on expanding access to medical services, especially in rural areas. Investments in infrastructure and personnel training have aimed to improve the overall quality of healthcare and address health challenges such as diabetes and tuberculosis.

Social welfare programs: Poverty reduction remains a key priority, with social welfare programs targeting vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and low-income families. These programs have helped reduce poverty levels and improve the overall quality of life.

IV. Foreign policy and regional relations

Uzbekistan’s foreign policy has undergone a shift toward greater engagement with both its regional neighbors and the international community. Key aspects of this foreign policy include:

Regional cooperation in Central Asia: One of Uzbekistan’s primary foreign policy goals has been to improve relations with its Central Asian neighbors, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. This has involved resolving long-standing border disputes, enhancing economic cooperation, and promoting regional security.

Diversifying global relations: The country has worked to strengthen ties with major global powers, including Russia, China, and the United States. Uzbekistan’s efforts to balance relationships with both Western and regional powers reflect a pragmatic approach to foreign diplomacy.

Active participation in international organizations: Uzbekistan has become more active in international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. This reflects the country’s desire to enhance its role in global affairs and contribute to international peace and stability.

Conclusion: 

The New Uzbekistan marks an era of profound transformation, driven by ambitious reforms across political, economic, and social spheres. Under the leadership of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the country has made remarkable strides, particularly in modernizing the political system, enhancing economic development, and improving social welfare for its citizens. These reforms have already begun to reshape Uzbekistan’s global standing, fostering stronger ties with international partners and enhancing the country’s integration into the global economy.

However, challenges still persist, especially in fully liberalizing the political landscape and diversifying the economy away from reliance on natural resources. Despite these challenges, the ongoing reforms reflect Uzbekistan’s unwavering commitment to modernization and long-term stability. The vision of a New Uzbekistan — a nation characterized by sustainable growth, political pluralism, and social well-being — remains within reach, and with continued dedication to these reforms, the country is well-positioned to build a brighter future for its people.

Poetry from Nurbek Norchayev

Older Central Asian man in a black coat and pants and white collared shirt standing in front of an elevator.

Gazing Into the Boundless

1

A tiny puddle is a mirror!

and the one gently peering in

is the dandelion.

A flower gazes at its own reflection

in the tear-drops of the clouds.

2

Like an old man,

the cherry tree is bent with age…

Yet youth blooms in every branch.

The only thing my soul needs

is a walking stick.

3

A bud is joy,

a flower is flame.

It came into this world

to burn.

4

The wind ploughs through the flowerbed;

one flower falls beneath another…

A flowerpot under a flowerpot—

my perplexity is faster than a racehorse.

5

If destiny allows,

I would build a minaret—

as grand as a pharaoh’s pyramid—

out of a single poem.

I would plant flowers

all around it.

Then I would climb it gently

and gaze upon the world and its people.

I would ask applause for my poems

from whoever has read them—

if anyone has.

6

I cherish poetry deeply,

even though it wounds my heart.

Wandering through astonishing flower gardens,

I place poetry

as a crown upon my head.

Let people send me their love

and call me king—

I no longer mind.

### 

Silence is comforting;

it buries the cries and sounds

of sorrow.

The morning sun is magnificent:

the flowers can hear

the sound of its light.

These mountains stand proud;

they pay no mind

to those who pass beneath them.

The sky is a vast embrace—

wide enough to hold

every glance.

The poet is the guide of my soul;

from the light of faith

my feelings begin to bloom.

(Translated by Azam Abidov)

Nurbek Norchayev was born on April 18, 1993, in Kosan District of Kashkadarya Region. He is currently a fourth-year student at the Faculty of Pedagogy, Shahrisabz State Pedagogical Institute.

Poetry from Eva Lianou Petropoulou

Young middle aged light skinned European woman with a barrette in her light brown hair and green eyes.

Freedom

A word 

Who has all the meaning of…

This is happiness 

This is harmony 

This is respect 

But what we do

Humans are killing humans 

Humans are manipulating humans

Freedom,

A game between two birds without wings

Freedom,

A hope because two hungry stomachs 

Freedom,

Elefteria

A sun waiting to rise…..

In our days 

In our century 

We are in need of second educational system 

Re write new words 

Or learn the meaning of the old one 

EVA Petropoulou Lianou 

……….

Women

I was wondering if I am free?

Do u feel free?

Nooo

Every day I walk in a street of possibilities and opportunities..

But nobody look at me

As i am a woman..

It is unspeakable how much a woman is used..

From day one

A woman needed to educate the child

To cook for a child

To teach him how to think.. Speak..

Act.. 

A lot for a woman to do

But what happens after..

A woman need

A woman wish

A woman word

Nonexistent person

Until one day

U will look at the mirror

U see your face

U will see your heart

U will see your body

And u will not recognize it

Because u will be so used

Used from the rejection

Used from the loneliness

Used from the fake people

Used from the bad decisions

Without faith!!!

………….

Woman

You are alive

A mother

A daughter

Women,

We respect each other

We support each other

Our power is strong

When we are together

Woman,

A friend

That we never leave you at your hard time

Woman,

The creativity

The poetry

The art 

Woman we must celebrate and be respected everyday 

…….,….    

We are humans 

We supposed to build relationships with humans not meta humans 

Not animals 

Not aliens

We supposed to bring peace in the harmonious world we live 

But everyday i see

A woman hugging a cat or dog

Feed them

Bath them

While babies are throwing to the centre

Men talk to their dogs about their problems and prefer to stay with them

Instead to Go out and meet a human being 

What is going with this society of screening 

We are becoming clones of ourselves 

Without emotion 

Without feelings 

We celebrate and congratulate only our people…. our tribe 

What about the others.. people..that They are doing so much about what we call

Good 

We must say silent 

We must not celebrate their achievements?

Humans need recognition 

Individuals need assistance in every level due to the COVID test and everything that follows this experiment 

But do you think 

Having only relationships

with cats and dogs

Is that healthy???

I wonder exactly in what kind of society we are leaving 

We don’t even speak to each other 

And when we do

We have hate 

We have negative thoughts 

We have too much inside our hearts 

Too much dark and fear

So i tell you now 

Get rid of those toxic feelings 

Start reading 

Start writing 

Start dancing 

Start laughing 

Life is short 

Love

Is the answer

Love of self King

Love of the Self Queen

Love

Without asking

Love with feelings

Love

Energy of free giving

Timeless

Universe

Wishes

Dreams

Love

Educate the children to give

So as adults they will receive

…….

_Golden bridges_

I find you

Because you were hurt

I cherish you

As i felt your pain

I love you and

I cover your wounds

With silver

So u will shine

U will shine

U will never break again

I will create a bridge for all the hurt people

I will build golden pillars

Nobody will hurt again, children or women

As the diamonds 

They will shine

We will Rise 

And we will be re born in a future peaceful world..

…….

Once upon a time there was a King without Kingdom 

Every day he wakes up and he was talking a walk in the garden.

The birds were singing,

Here, here comes the King without Kingdom 

And the peacock repeat 

Here here comes the King without Kingdom 

The King keeps walking until he arrives in the lake.

Beautiful roses and tulips and jasmine were around the lake.

The king approached his face to the surface of the lake and he asked the water

When will my Kingdom come to me?

When will the time to rule arrive?

The water didn’t answer 

But two orange fishes come out of the water 

and respond to the King 

When’ the Sun and the Moon will meet each other 

When humanity will stop killing his brother and sister

When they are going to be no poor in this world 

When the Peace will rule the entire planet 

You master

You will have a Kingdom.

….

………

Jealousy 

Jealousy, 

Means you don’t understand the meaning of life 

Jealousy, 

Is when you never appreciate your own life or yourself. 

Jealousy, 

Is shame to look the life of others

and envy them 

Jealousy, 

Is the worst feeling 

It destroys the mind and the heart of people. 

In the end we are all sleeping under the same sky. 

Poetry from Susie Gharib

Sway

I finally decide to spit out my over-clotting pain, 

but in whose face?

I pause to deflect a morbid ray.

There is no raven perching on the rail of my bed

to enlighten my head,

no ancient lore up my sleeve

to defer a bleed.

There are no reflections of a resurrected spirit

at my feet,

I reel.

I paint with kohl my inflated eyelids

to camouflage the tears

that would rob every hardened feature of its blade,

that would erode the charade of invincibility,

meant to keep every scoundrel at bay, 

yet thrown off my balance,

I, but only momentarily, sway.

Animists

And do you understand what the wind intimates?

It is not the mere rhythm that makes branches sway,

the vigorous breath that animates stagnant flags into interplays,

the energy that propels gigantic galleys with widespread sails.

It is not merely the hum of trees that Romantic poems exhale,

the booms of waves with which the Gothic novel resonates,

or the caress that woos colossal mountains rooted to their spheres.

It is more eloquent than the most articulate of foreseers.

My Life Fast Flew

My life fast flew before my own bewildered eyes

and ended up its uneven course 

before it had the chance to thrive.

Dissolving love dissipated like frantic fog

and companionship freaked 

before the shrieks of loss.

Paws

“Apart from the Brontës and Virginia Woolf,

most of the women I claim to know

can hardly attain the status of a wolf.

And they do possess paws,

with which they claw a man

if he cannot prove his financial worth,”

he stated with a spoof!