Child From Gaza - Dzintart Meiksans

[Lawrence Robinson]

Child From Gaza

I found the dead body between the rubble.
I informed the authorities.
I called for help.
There was silence.
I was alone.

I found the body
under the rubble.
There were no birds—
only jets
singing in the sky.

I found the body
under the rubble.
The jets were marvelous—
their streamlined bodies,
a testament
to the beauty
and cruelty
of the human mind.

I found the body in the rubble.
The only visitors were dogs.
They searched for food.
I built a shelter,
and made a fireplace
from the ribs
of a doll’s house.

I found the body under the rubble.
It was a child—
small palms,
a face like an angel.
But this one hadn’t fallen from the sky—
I found it hidden
beneath the lies.

I found the body under the rubble.
It was a child.
Again.
Again.
Abba, why have You forsaken me?

I found the body
under the rubble.

Stop killing.
Stop genocide.
Peace in Gaza.

	- Dzintart Meiksans