Another New Year

I can still remember the last time I got excited over New Years. There was still an amount of spark within me that hadn’t been killed yet. I’d scold my husband for his lack of festive spirit. Back then, there were no grand fireworks festivals, so I’d sit at home waiting for the clock […]
A Life of Giving

A Life of Giving A Life of Giving As I progress in life, the more I realize that I need to rein in my spontaneity and passion. An image from my childhood keeps nagging me. I was not more than six when I went to my grandfather’s barber shop one day. There was a man […]
Peace among the Wreckage

Amidst the wreckage and turmoil of this world, I seek refuge in places of comfort. In Gaza, they’re not usually physical places per se, for there’s no safe place here. The Gaza beach may offer temporary peace and relief, but only if you try to forget the bloodshed that took place in its waters. And […]
Those Who Walk Away from Gaza

Their shoulders slumped as they treaded their dark city. Eyes gazing, but not looking at anything specific. A disoriented look on their bewildered faces. Searching for something, but not finding it. On streets, buildings caved in on them like grotesque monsters. Many boasted fancy facades, and illuminated signs hung over shops and restaurants. But the […]
Out There

They tell me it’s a vast world out there. That if I were to leave this place, I’d see for myself. That the lush green landscapes will stupefy me. That I can drive a car for hours on a road with mountains and waterfall overlooking. That driving itself is relieving and something one can do […]
Sounds and Sights in Gaza

I’m trying to enjoy solitude as I sit and write away. I’ve kept the windows closed in a desperate attempt to block the noisy bustle outside. That way I can pretend it’s still early morning and my muse doesn’t escape. Despite this, some sounds penetrate the windows. The buzzing Israeli drone, the rumbling of cars […]