International Poet Tree Magazine Issue #44

As the year winds down, we would like to express how thankful we are to have met so many artists and art lovers with which to share our magazine. We thank each and every one of you who has supported Poet Tree Magazine and consider you part of our family. The love and encouragement that we have received has allowed us to maintain strength and focus, enabling us to complete another stunning issue.

What’s new in Issue #4:

• Poet Kelly Tsai: What you don't know about her.

• Which tattoo was artist Tom Sanford talked out of getting, and why?

• Was John Quincy Adams, the 16th president of the United States, a poet?

• Find out where to pick up the book, “imaginary poems for my imaginary girlfriend named Anabel,” by Elizabeth Mariani, “knots” by Susan Marie and also a volume by Doc Dalton.

• Are libraries still appreciated as they were in the late 1930s? Find out what Eleanor Roosevelt had to say about libraries, and how her wisdom pertains to today.

    As always, Poet Tree Magazine features one of the most diverse compilations of  art, poetry and short stories that you will find in one magazine, with artists from around the world. As always, Poet Tree Magazine supports positive change across the globe.

    For this issue, we have partnered with a not-for-profit organization to help buy school uniforms for children in Haiti. When you purchase one of our Haiti Rebel Flag T-shirt/magazine combos, 100 percent of the funds go to the cause. (We've got 50 T-shirts we hope will sell out quickly with the help of our readers.)

    Thank you again for supporting our publication, and for supporting the arts.   

       

            Sincerely,

                     Vagner Revol, founder of Poet Tree Magazine

                                        (venum7@hotmail.com, 561-889-3119)

UPCOMING EVENTS!

Please visit us on Facebook for information on the 2nd annual I write poetry contest. 

Special thanks to everyone at www.artistIlove.com and www.lethalpoetry.com, as well as the following contributors: Sonya Pressly, Darren M. Grine, Cassandra Tribe, Irina Grisolle, Sarah Torribio, and Leah Goodwin.

   

Anuradha Koirala: CNN Hero (Please Vote, Stop Sexual Trafficking)

Anuradha Koirala CNN Hero 2010 from BRIGITTE CAZALIS-COLLINS and JOE COLLINS Voting for CNN Hero 201o Anuradha Koirala has been selected as one of the 10 finalists for the CNN Heroes award. The winner will be chosen by worldwide popular vote. We would greatly appreciate you to vote for her and tell your friends to tell their friends. Today, thanks to the international recognition of her work by CNN,  the world gets the chance to hear her voice - speaking on behalf of the young victims of sex trafficking, to whom she has dedicated her life.  With your votes you can help us provide more financial resources for the victims of sex trafficking. The winner of this CNN Hero  Award will receive $100,000.00 for his/her cause. Vote online for Anuradha Koirala Voting is ongoing through November 18th, 2010 (6 pm ET). The winner will be announced on Thursday the 25th of November 2010, Thanksgiving Day in the US. YOU CAN VOTE AS MANY TIMES AS YOU WISH. Please let family and numerous friends know.  Please share on Facebook, twitter, e-mails etc Click here to VOTE. [Once you get to the CNN page, click on Anuradha's photo, type in the "captcha" code at the bottom of the page and click vote. Then do it again!] Please share this great news and opportunity  with everyone! Thank you, merci, dhanyibad! Gratefully, Brigitte Cazalis-Collins Joe Collins

Iqbal’s Eagle (shaheen) Yearns For Change

October 20, 2010 by Nooruddin Jalal | 

Allama Mohammad Iqbal (Poet of the East) ignites me to write.  He is among many whom  inspire me.   For me, he was a poet, philosopher, a revolutionary and a devout Muslim with Sufistic bent of mind.  He stirred up a revolution in the apathetic masses through his powerful poetry.  The most significant and dynamic symbol in his poetry is that of the Eagle (Shaheen in Urdu.)  To understand the Eagle motif in his poetry thus becomes essential to understand Iqbal’s  message.  Several times in his poetry, Iqbal refers to Muslim youth as  Shaheen.  Youth are the greatest wealth and strength of any nation that have immensely contributed to nation building.  There are several examples in past history.  The fresh minds have charisma to bring change.  That is why Iqbal motivated the youth of sub-Continent to bring revolution.  Why did Iqbal choose the eagle to motivate our youth?  Why not use a symbol of lion or tiger, or some other fast and furious animal?  What distinguishes the eagle from the other is its sharp vision, courage, daring attitude, love of freedom and action, struggle,  devotion, dedication, self-reliance and its ability to soar up into the air and rule the sky.

Last night I was watching a documentary on National Geographic about the life of eagles.  What I learned regarded an eagles’ ability to “Transform” or “Change” after certain periods of time and need.  An eagle can live more than 60 years but during its life period it has to face tough challenges.   During its 40’s, its long talon can no longer catch prey for survival and its sharp beak becomes bent.   The eagle then has only one option to exist to adapt to change.   In order to survive, the eagle  has to go through the transformation process, which is very painful, such as:  plucking its talon and waiting for the new to grow, and knocking its beak upon rocks.  After this painful process, it can fly again and hunt with the same dynamics.

~Nahi Tera Nasheman Qasar-e-Sultani Kay Gumbad Par
Tu Shaheen Hai Basaira Kar Paharon ki Chaton Par~

After learning of this transformation process, I realized why Iqbal preferred the eagle over other animals.  He wants Muslims to stop living a life of vulture (Karghis) and accept the challenges of life.   According to Iqbal’s view, Muslim Umma needed a change, particularly Muslims of sub-Continent.  He tells Muslim  youth to go back to their roots and become eagles again.  According to Iqbal, when a person forgets/neglects the tasks assigned to him/her, then God makes him/her forget himself as a result.  We (youth) need to bring back our lost history.  The real cancer is in our minds.  The only way to progress is to bring change within ourselves, families and societies.  It is time to take actions for our responsibilities.  Allah has given us freedom of choice so take responsibility for the outcomes of your choice.  The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) left us a responsibility to take heed to His message for continuous guidance . 

“ Every leaf of the tree becomes a page of the book , when once heart is opened and it has learnt to read.” Sa’adi~

~Parwaaz Hai Donon ki Usee Aik FaZaa Main
Kargas Kaa Jahaan Aur Hai, Shaheen Kaa Jahan Aur~

Let us not forget the message of Iqbal and focus on constructively using the power of the youth for the betterment of the nation.   Youth are the powerhouse of infinite energy.   Youth power is unbeatable and irrevocable.  All we need to do is direct the energy of our youth in constructive channels that lead to development and progress.  Let us frame such policies that aim at empowering our youth so that we are assured of a better future and brighter tomorrow.  After 63 years of independence, our country still faces hard times  such as:  suffering from poor governance, providing safety for citizens, Sufi shrines and other prayer places, an increase in sectarian violence, ignorance, dim strategy, cruelty and personal lust of power.  All of that causes me to speak for the “Change.”   The patriots of Pakistan are now geared up against all the traitors, looters, betrayers, and criminals.  The Eagles of Pakistan are yearning for change.

© Nooruddin Jalal 2010
@ WordPress 

An Interview with Sheniz Janmohamed: Bleeding Light: Ghazals

An Interview with Sheniz Janmohamed: Bleeding Light: Ghazals

Sheniz Janmohamed, poet, spoken word artist, parents born in Kenya, East Africa, Sheniz resides in Toronto Ontario. Sheniz has an MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Guelph, is founder of Ignite Poets, and nominated for "Favourite Author" by Masala! Mehndi! Masti! People's Choice Awards.  

Sheniz reads ghazals from her recently published volume, in English, entitled, "Bleeding Light." She speaks of Kenya, India, Toronto, culture, diversity, Sufism, ghazals, writing and art. Purchase her book at TSAR BOOKS and talk to Sheniz on Facebook

To listen click here.for direct download right click here

 

Susan Marie Public Relations
Think Twice Radio
This is NOT the Apple
New York USA 2010

Contact Me

Fauxtales: New works by Chuck Tingley: Art Exhibit

Opening Reception: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 5-8pm

On View: October 27 – November 27, 2010

iPrintfromHome.com is pleased to present Fauxtales, a mini-series by Buffalo artist, Chuck Tingley. The new body of work continues the artist's realistic approach into his vivid imagination. The exhibit will be his first show with iPrintfromHome.com and will be comprised of 7-9 small to medium pieces using the technique of drawing and collage on canvas. The opening reception of Fauxtales will be held at iPrintfromHome.com on Wednesday, October 27, 2010 from 5-8 pm. The exhibit will be on display through November 27, 2010 and is free and open to the public.

Chuck Tingley positions his figures in front of a collage of book print, letting the words dictate the story. In Fauxtales, Tingley explores the words in short stories and fairytales to manipulate the character’s physical appearance in order to transcend their reality. Through these new works, Tingley takes classic fairytales and stories and turns them into his own. The exhibition will be comprised of mixed media on canvas (pencil, paper, collage, canvas).

Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Chuck Tingley is a promising young talent currently working towards his BFA in painting at Buffalo State College. Tingley has been gaining attention on the strength of his unique and emotionally profound style of artwork. Earlier this year, he had his first solo exhibition, Emotional Effusion, at 464 Gallery on Amherst St, NY.

Interview with artist, Chuck Tingley

tingley83@gmail.com

http://chuck-tingley.com

What:      Fauxtales, exhibition by Chuck Tingley

When:     Opening Reception: Wednesday, October 27, 2010, 5-8PM

   Show runs through October 27 – November 27, 2010

Where:    iPrintfromHome.com
               1016 Niagara Falls Blvd
               Tonawanda, NY 14150


FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: www.chuck-tingley.com

Dave Schulz: Connect: CD Review: Buffalo and LA

 

Dave Schulz breaks free with his solo debut CD titled, "Connect."  Recorded mixed and engineered at: The Cave and Studio Atlantis, this 10 track CD is a 10+ year sentiment of the dedication Dave Schulz has lent to, grown within and around the art of music. 

The first track, "Everything", introduces itself with quintessential classical piano by Schulz. Written by Dave and Gretchen Schulz, this tune takes you to pensive heights with Dave on vox along with constant driving force of Matt Oloffson on percussion with Gretchen Schulz on backing vox, Robi Banerji on bass, Todd McCool on guitar and Jack Ellis on trombone. Each of them, in unison, bring you to the vortex of self with: "If you had everything / would it mean everything? / would you feel anything? / would you give everything? / just to feel like anything? / would it mean everything?"  Dave follows through with piano to end a tune, that is by far, radio ready.

Dave Schulz, singer/songwriter/keyboardist, of Buffalo, NY, were raised with a Father that was pianist and conductor of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.  Dave shared the stage with Beck, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Marilyn Manson, Pete Townshend, Bon Jovi, Rolling Stones, Spice Girls, Elvis Costello, Buffalo Tom, Sugar Ray, Fastball, New Radicals, Shania Twain, Blink 182, Missing Persons, DEVO, Berlin, Dramarama, Pet Shop Boys, N’SYNC, Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Fishbone, Maceo Parker, Dido, and Smashmouth, as well as performing at Woodstock in front of 60, 000 fans. 

This Western New York musician was nominated for Male Vocalist of the Year (2005 Los Angeles Music Awards), Best Keyboardist of the year (2006 All Access Awards), and nominations for Song of the Year (“Planet 39”) and Album of the Year (for his work with One Tribe Nation).

Present Awards and Inductions include: 2008:  Dave Schulz, (along with Robert and Gretchen Schulz) Buffalo Music Hall of Fame, 2009, honorable mention (16th Annual Billboard World Song) and (12th Annual Unisong International Songwriting Competitions) for his song, "Everything" that appears on his debut CD, "Connect."  Dave has performed with various musicians such as:  Goo Goo Dolls, Fuel, English Beat, Bran Van 3000, General Public, Berlin, Ryan Cabrera, Bo Diddley, Jihad Jerry and the Evildoers (Jerry Casale from DEVO’s solo project) Glenn Hughes, Bernard Fowler, One Tribe Nation, Phil Upchurch, Meleni, Fastball, The Rembrandts, Carmen and Camille, Hilary Hawn, When In Rome, Mesner, Michael Mccarthy and the Beautiful Fools, Last Conservative, Kristine W., Duke Graham, Daniel Morones, Derek Sholl, Eric Sardinas, Pine Dogs, Marvelous Sauce, Gretchen Schulz and the Morvelles, Steam Donkeys, Geno McManus, The Quakes, and The Buffalo Sabres. 

Schulz has appeared on VH1, MTV, Jay Leno, David Letterman, Conan O’Brien, Craig Ferguson,  Rosie O’Donnell, and CNN with live radio play on The BBC.

The 3rd song on the CD, "Perfect Day", written by Schulz and Steve DeMarchi, has intense lyrical significance. "have you ever been on your own / still waiting to feel like someone / have all the roads you've known / led to cities of ice in desert sun / and buried in the sand / a shattered image of a land / seen with eyes of a child."  Robin DiMaggio on percussion, Mike Porcaro on bass, Steve DeMarchi on guitars, Matt Gruber on guitars and Dave on keyboard and vox, continues with a warlike remnant of past with: "i'm in a space in between the wine and truth / i can't erase all i know from all I knew / forgot where i'm goin' but ended up here with you / its a perfect day to be insane"  This tune is cohesive, strong, and a post 9-11 eulogy.

"Lovers" if not currently playing on the radio, should be. It is significantly the strongest tune on this entire CD. With Dave's furlough into indie/pop/rock, the jazzy backbeat and sensual lyrics, flips you off your feet, turning you around, upside down, and does not set you directly on your feet with: "we were like lovers / i could tell from the start / we were just strangers / but you opened my heart / with a lifetime of memories / and nothing to lose / not being close / would have been easy to do / but i can never look back at all / i can never move forward till i let you run / when we were like lovers / the world couldn't pull us apart."  Written by David Cordrey, "Lovers", features Cordrey on guitar, Michael Rosas on guitar, bass and drums, Steve DeMarchi on guitar and David Aido on acoustics. "Lovers" is a heartbeat, a solitary touch, its poetry.  "Lovers" is the past, present and future.

"Connect" certainly does just that. Every song on this CD is electric.  It is a testament to the many years Dave Schulz has performed.  "Connect" is a must have and one of the most complete compilations of musicians, instruments, lyrics, and subject matter I have encountered in a long time.

Visit Dave Schulz at: www.daveschulzmusic.com for accomplishments, more on Dave and connect directly to and with him. "Connect" can be found on the above website under: STORE and Dave can be found on myspace, facebook, itunes, twitter, reverbnation and you tube.

This entire CD is a sensory hallucinatory dance into a bluesy mix of hypnotic lyrics and jazz tempos. Grab this CD, go to www.daveschulzmusic.com.  This is one that you will leave in the player all day long. An absolute spiritual progression.

"you can hold me forever / you can feel me right now / hold me like lovers / hold me wherever you are."

© Susan Marie 2010

Susan Marie Public Relations
Think Twice Radio
This is NOT the Apple
New York USA 2010

Contact Me

Celebrate Starlight! Starlight Studio 5th Anniversary

You are cordially invited to

CELEBRATE  STARLIGHT!

Friday, October 1, 2010

 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

STARLIGHT STUDIO & ART GALLERY

340 DELAWARE AVENUE

BUFFALO, NY 14202

716.842.1525

       A Program Created by Learning Disabilities Association

www.starlightstudio.org

Gallery Hours:  Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

           

Come celebrate the 5th anniversary of Starlight

Studio and Art Gallery.  5 years of individuals

developing themselves as creative artists.

This is a FREE event featuring the sounds of Free Henry!

SB Reeves and his Outfit and Fredonia Jazz Trio as well as

food from Globe Market and a silent art auction.

                      

Preview Event :  Friday, September 24,  5 p.m.-11 p.m.

View the beautiful artworks up for auction on this evening while also seeing

Bruce Adams’ installation, Divine Beauty, as part of the

Beyond/In Western New York 2010 exhibition.

Celebrate Starlight: 5 Year Anniversary Starlight Studios

On October 1, 2010 from 7-10pm, Western New York will celebrate the 5 year anniversary of Starlight Studios in conjunction with The Learning Disabilities Association of Western New York.   

"Celebrate Starlight", is a gathering of community, artists, business, educators, art aficionados, teaching artists, organizations, musicians and students of the gallery to celebrate the work both organizations continue to provide to all genres of art.   

This event is FREE and open to the public.  All are invited and welcomed. 

"Celebrate Starlight" will provide live music, light refreshments, a silent auction of framed art prints, along with t-shirts, calenders and note cards created by students of The Learning Disabilities Association of Western New York.   

Starlight Studio and Art Gallery is an open art studio habilitation program for adults with developmental disabilities and neurological impairments.  Participants work with professional artists to cultivate their skills in a myriad of media and techniques.  An on site gallery affords participants and other artists the opportunity to exhibit and sell their work. Visits to museums, galleries, artist studios and other sites are an integral part of the program as is hosting visiting artists in the areas of visual art, poetry, storytelling and songwriting. The mission of Starlight is to provide individualized guidance for the cultivation of artistic expression with people who have disabilities.  Participants have the opportunity to interface with the public and broaden public perceptions about people with disabilities as well as enrich their own lives. 

The Learning Disabilities Association of Western New York provides high-quality individualized, comprehensive, and innovative services, which support, educate, and empower individuals with learning disabilities, neurological impairments, and other disabilities with similar needs.

 

The event will commence at 7pm with Western New York's finest musical performances by Free Henry!, SB Reeves, and Fredonia Jazz Trio. 

  Please join us for an enchanting evening celebrating art and music, with an auction, light refreshments and a gathering of all aspects of community at Starlight Studios, 340 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY  716. 842.1525 from 7-10pm. The event is FREE and open to all public. 

For more information: www.starlightstudios.org and http://www.ldaofwny.org/. Support your community, art in all genres and two organizations that continue to fuel a positive growing presence in our world. Create, diversify, dedicate and educate.

Susan Marie Public Relations
Think Twice Radio
This is NOT the Apple
New York USA 2010

Western New York Musicians Support Pakistan Flood Victims

Contact: Aaron O'Brian
Ph: 716-602-2465
  blackbird2009@gmail.com

 

Western New York Musicians Support Pakistan Flood Victims

On Sunday, September 19th from 1-9pm, Western New York musicians will help raise money for the victims of the Pakistan flood at the Pakistan Flooding Relief Benefit Show at Alternative Brews 3488 Sheridan Drive, Amherst NY.


The show will feature ten local bands with musical styles ranging from acoustic solo acts to original rock and alternative songs and covers. Bands and musicians scheduled to play are: Michael Bly, Black Heart Republic, The Improvements, Concubine, The Gibbets, Force Of Habit, Big Tree Road, Ozzmageddon, Rosaleen Marion and Nicolette Saraf.


All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to UNICEF: Pakistan Flood Relief.


Local musician Aaron O'Brian, lead singer of the Buffalo-based band Black Heart Republic, organized the event to help out the millions of people left homeless and in need of food, shelter, clean drinking water and medical services.

"The United Nations estimates that more than 20 million people are injured or homeless as a result of the flooding, exceeding the combined total of individuals affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the 2005 Kashmir earthquake and the 2010 Haiti earthquake," said O'Brian.


Acoustic musician Rosaleen Marion felt compelled to help out and would rather take some sort of action in order to help the people in need.

"When the world turns upside down, everyone is moved, "said Marion. "If the choice is to cry or sing, I would rather sing. If the tears are going to come anyway, then at least I am not crying alone in front of the TV wondering what to do, because I have done that before and I am grateful for the opportunity to do something helpful instead."


Doors open at 1 p.m. and admission is $5 at the door for this 21 and over show. Bands will play throughout the day starting at 3 p.m. The Buffalo Bills/Green Bay game airs at 1pm and can be watched at Alternative Brews.

On Facebook

YOU are a part of HUMANITY. This is OUR World. 

Please help the PEOPLE of PAKISTAN. 

Susan Marie Public Relations

Think Twice Radio

This is NOT the Apple

New York USA 2010

Grace Stumberg: Music in Action: WNY Org as Model in Quality

View Article in Buffalo Rising

Here's a homegrown response to the growing call for education reform and accountability.

Future Schools Network, a small WNY non-profit organization with a 15-year track record of providing innovative student-centered programming, just did something that no one else has done, at least not in New York State. They received a rare "quality" certification for a 2nd time for providing leadership, career and service learning programs to area students.

The Promising Practice certification, received last month, comes from a NYS quality assurance board, www.sharingsuccess.org, supported by the Legislature & Governor's office.

"Less than 1% of programs ever receive this award, states Dr. Felicia Watson, Technical Assistance Director for New York State's 21st Century Community Learning Centers. "Earning two is the definition of being an evidence-based 'best-practice', and a great lesson in quality and dedication to continuous improvement."



Future Schools Network, was first certified in 2007 for their Future Leaders / Student Voices program and received this second award in July for "Music in Action", a program co-authored by Future Schools Director, Bob James and Robby Takac, Founder of Music is Art.

Students also "get it", but on a more personal level, including Grace Stumberg, who was invited to open a May 2009 education conference at the State Capital with her song, "Change the World."

"For myself and others, it [Music in Action] was the reason to come to school," Stumberg was quoted. "If it weren't for the program, I wouldn't be here today and I'd probably be drifting and not knowing my own voice inside."

Official quality certification is rare, requiring ample data and analysis. Many high-profile programs like D.A.R.E. & Save the Music have not achieved similar honors.

The New York State Education Department advocates the use of proven "evidenced-based" programs. Many claim to do this, but few have the data to prove it.

"The ultimate goal of funding for educational programs should be youth development", states John Soja, former Director of the NYS Education Department's 21st Century Community Learning Centers. "Students need meaningful service learning experiences in order to nurture the academic, social and emotional skills necessary to function as productive citizens.  Future Leaders, and now Music in Action have effectively utilized grant funding to accomplish this goal."

Assemblyman Sam Hoyt said, "Buffalo should be proud of the double 'quality' certification that Future Schools Network has received.  Its work is a model of accountability and has the ability to transform the way services can be delivered in schools across the state."

What If This Were Your Family In Need of Disaster Relief?

This is still ongoing in 2011 . . . 

YOU are a part of HUMANITY. This is OUR World. 

Please help the PEOPLE of PAKISTAN.  

*Please retweet and share this article online above toolbar or to the right share option*

© International Medical Corps 2010



CLICK HERE TO HELP FROM ANY COUNTRY INTERNATIONAL AND IF IN PAKISTAN TO JOIN A RELIEF TEAM OR TO DONATE TO ONE INTERNATIONAL


 

I received a story written by Amna Siddiqui, a young lady in Pakistan, a nation currently declared the largest relief aid effort overshadowing Hurricane Katrina, the Tsunami, and the Haiti Earthquake by the United Nations News Room.  Following a severe plane crash (as reported by the BBC), sudden and extreme flooding has left [and continues to leave] families without homes, belongings, food, and safe water to drink.  Numerous teams of people in Pakistan are bringing food, water and assisting with medical aid to victims of flood areas. The reality of this situation is not what is seen on television or newspapers.  Through the mouths of those living in this disaster, I share with you pictures, videos and information.

The Boston Globe Initial Flood Pictures


Pakistan Youth Student Relief Team


Pakistan Youth Rescue and Relief Operation



Pakistan Youth Rescue and Relief: Free Medical Camp 


Pak Fauj Relief (Pakistan Army) 


MORE TO COME . . .

©  Pakistan Youth Alliance 2010

Below is Amna's story and following her story are links to teams in Pakistan to join, reputable organizations to donate to, and cell text donations.  I share this to educate and inform.  Many countries have and are sending aid, however, the aid is needed now.  The aftermath of each passing day presents new areas of flood victims, need for more food/water, medication/medical aid workers to halt waterborne disease, and to prevent further death. All underlined links below go directly to the website mentioned.  We are all a part of humanity. Please join me in lending your hand to the people of Pakistan, and if in Pakistan, join your nation in whatever way possible.

This Family by Amna Siddiqui    
[Ramadan is a celebration of blessings.]

5 days had gone past; washed away more like. And with them, washed away were my house, my family, my things; things that mattered, and things that now, didn’t. And I was left alone, to ponder over its meaning. 5 days, and I still couldn’t believe it.

Ramadan was to start from tomorrow; the Month of Blessings. And I wondered, with a pang of disgrace, over the things I had lost. Certainly, there was no compensation to family; my mother and father and my two younger sisters. Every single thing reminded me of them, and with every single reminder my heart would break anew.

As I looked around, I would only see houses that were flattened, the school destroyed, parents missing, siblings missing, and the fruit laden trees washed away. What was there to be grateful for now? What blessings was Ramadan going to bring me? Nothing mattered to me now, as fresh tears flooded my eyes and I silently wished I could drown myself in them.

With a tired sigh, I got up and started walking. It was a long and silent night. I had no idea of time. I put my hand in my pocket and felt the half eaten pack of biscuits my sister had lent me a week ago. With a tight throat, I lifted it out of my pocket and opened it. The biscuits were soggy; not really my choice. As I was counting them, a cough distracted me. I looked up and noticed a faint glow coming from a distance away. Curiously, I started walking towards it, and saw a few figures settled around a fire. My heart skipped a beat.  They must have food.  I thought. At last, I wouldn't have to eat these soggy biscuits. I sped up towards them.

As I reached nearer, I could make out their faces. Two old men, a woman and a little girl, a middle aged man doing the fire, and two young boys sitting next to him. They weren’t talking, just sitting there drying their clothes and warming up their broken hearts.

© UNHCR The UN Refugee Agency 2010

“Assalam o alaikum” I said loudly so the middle aged man and a few others looked up. 

“Walekum assalam” he replied. “Do sit down.”  

I sat down on a small boulder next to him.

“My name is Zaheer” he said, “And you are?”

“Azhar. From the village down the… road.”  I said.

“Hmmm… Do join us.” Zaheer said with a faint smile and pushed a plate towards me. It had a few dates and some rice. I looked around and noticed others had the same eccentric dish in front of them. The little girl was eating her cold rice hungrily, and the woman, possibly her mother was chewing on the dates.

“This is all we have” Zaheer said without looking up. “But it’s something.”

And I felt like someone had shoved a brick down my throat. I could not speak, I could not swallow. I just sat there with my eyes burning.  Reminding myself of all the blessings I had been ignoring.  How could I have been so ungrateful?  I never valued the whole ripe fruit we grew in our own houses.  I never appreciated my relations.  I sulked over not having a brother,  when blessed with two wonderful sisters.  And worse yet, I loathed my village folk.  I thought of them as illiterate, ignorant, crazy people.  And now, all these blessings were taken away from me.  And I didn’t deserve them in the first place.  And now,  I were blessed so much still. 

And here I was, a Muslim. Sitting among my fellow Muslims. None of us knew each other. The woman and her daughter, the two old men, the little boys and Zaheer himself, all belonged to different families. And were now, sitting together, preparing to Fast.  Of course I still had a family.   They were my family.  My brothers and sisters.  There was no place in the stretched out world where a Muslim was not having Sehri [the feast before the fast] right now, or any moments to follow.  No matter what calamity, we were still here, assembled together for praying.  No matter how many people were lost, we still had ourselves to heal us, and our belief to keep us going. And it was this belief, that linked us together, that made us a family.

© UNHCR The UN Refugee Agency 2010

“Do you… have water?” I croaked.

“Lots of it…” said Zaheer and handed me a huge plastic bottle.

I drank the cold liquid, grateful for every gulp.

“You should start eating.” Zaheer prompted.

I nodded and reached my pocket and brought out the pack of biscuits and handed them over to him.

He instantly opened them and distributed a biscuit each amongst us. Thankfully, there were enough.

“Alhamdulillah.” [Praise to God] We both said and ate gratefully.

And the warmth I felt towards my fellows in faith around me was warmer than any fire could create.

_______________________________________________________

Thousands of people have died, 2 million have been displaced and 14 million lives have been disrupted by exceptionally heavy monsoon rains in Pakistan since July. The U.N. says that even more lives could be lost if aid doesn't arrive soon.


CLICK HERE TO HELP FROM ANY COUNTRY INTERNATIONAL AND IF IN PAKISTAN TO JOIN A RELIEF TEAM OR TO DONATE TO ONE INTERNATIONAL
 

Click pictures below for live video of the flood 

© YOU TUBE VIDEO ITT news 2010 

 © CNN.com YOU TUBE VIDEO 2010 Reza Sayah


© YOU TUBE VIDEO www.Pakistankakhudahafiz.com




YOU are a part of HUMANITY. This is OUR World. 
Please help the PEOPLE of PAKISTAN.  


Peace,


Sue

Susan Marie Public Relations

This is NOT the Apple
New York USA 2010

Contact Me