YES, WE ARE AT WAR

YES, WE ARE AT WAR
A poem by Shahid Athar M.D.

Consultations have been made
The verdict has been passed
Guilty as charged
The President has spoken
"We are at war - make no mistakes"

War drums beating, soldiers marching
War planes flying, war ships sailing
Battle tanks moving, cannons roaring
Mothers crying but children asking
Who are we fighting?

Who is the enemy?
Where is the enemy?
Is he in the mountains?
"Let us go - get him"
Or is he in our hearts?

Is this a war between
Those who blow up planes?
Bring down the tall buildings
And kill civilians and children

Or is this a war against
Those who keep their heads up
Spirit high and resolve strong
And keep the dreams alive
Those who give love not hate?

Is this a war between
Those who destroy offices
Beautiful families and homes
Mosques, synagogues and churches
And flower gardens too?

Or is this a war against those
Who tie bonds of friendship and love
Among neighbors and faith communities
Then pray for peace
To the lonely and sad God?

Is this a war between
Those who call all Muslims terrorists
Then terrorize them with
Their tongues, pens and hands
To make them feel low?

Or is this a war against those
Who "love thy neighbor"
Respect Islam and Muslims
Treat them as their own
Defend and protect them?

Is this a war between those
Who call themselves Christians
And those who ARE Christians
Who call them selves Muslims
And those who ARE Muslims?

Between Good and Evil, Love and Hate
The war is on - choose your side
Choose our enemy - choose your friend
I am not your enemy - I am your friend
Choose your weapon - mine is my pen

© Shahid Athar, 2001 9-19-01