galut

galut

i have tasted promised lands

danced on the shores of rivers
rolled back
for the continuation of life.

i have seen before
and after.

I have eyes opened
to contradictions,

to beauty
that comes with a price,

i have danced to funeral songs
on second lines
i didn't think existed,

enjoyed the views
created by madmen.

i have seen the fruits
of occupation

felt the sting as they slipped
down my throat

i have danced instead of marched
i have followed the curves
of roads that terrified me.

i have eaten fried chicken
next to destroyed schools.

and yet,

i yearn for that beauty

i burn for those songs,
those smells,

i want to drive those roads again.

to dance.
to return.

to taste promise once more.