today we come together
to read and sing of peace
lay aside our differences
there’s no need to explain
define or defend our theme
question our ancestors
about their silent dreams
no need to blame the rain or pain
for crying on the phone
no need to ask how far the tide
will come to meet our bones
when all is said and done
you’ll have to give up soon
the things that make you what you are
the things you think you own
a spouse a house
a child a friend
the land your customs
even the pain
for when you’re left with nothing
only wings to lift you up
you’ll see how fast your soul is trembling
freedom trapped in a cup
seize it now hold it tight
have no fear you’re there
let me whisper no i’ll shout
peace is in the air
Konai Helu Thaman (born 1946) Tonga
Source: Poems, Konai Helu Thaman, Kunapipi, 27(2), 2005
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