Rattling windows, a leaking roof
Thunderstorms and hurricanes
The flood left its stains; faded proof
A house destroyed by fate’s games.

Cracked ground, withering plants
Scorching sun and no clouds in sight
Silver linings? There’s not even a chance
A soul hurt fight after fight.

Blistered skin, smoke filled lungs
Flames climbed higher as time ran by
Bullets rained from the guns
A body of holes left to dry.

But you learned to make rainbows out of rain
And stayed afloat after drowning
You prevailed even after being betrayed by Cain
And you painted over your stains, ever-persevering.

You watered your plants with your sweat
And you glowed like the moon in the burning sun
You didn’t need “silver linings”, you take what you get
Sure, your soul was hurt, but onwards you run.

You wore your blisters as armour
And used the flames to forge your sword
And in the wreckage, you lowered your anchor
Your feet on the ground, eyes skyward.

Through storm, dearth, fire and pain, you’ve passed
Never taking the easy way out, you’ve never caved
And through hurdles to come, you will last
Because in your heart resilience is engraved.

About the Poet 

Farha Riyas is a Grade 11 student from Sunrise English Private School, Abu Dhabi.

Ever since a young age, Farha  has always been interested and captivated by English Literature and Poetry. She loves how each poem has a fascinating way of defining an emotion aesthetically and how it holds a different and unique meaning for each individual.