Sun blazing on my skin
Calluses that now serve more as footwear
Protecting my feet
I walk head high
Strutting my pride
For suffering does not belong to me
She has made several attempts
To befriend me and live in my heart
And yet, each time I sent her away
Even when famine–
Struck my dwelling
Even when hatred–
Took my sons
Even when the Angel of Death
Took my one and only
I still remained head high
Heart strong
Pain, yes
Anger, most certainly
But never did I choose suffering
As my companion
No matter what trials came upon me
No matter how far I have had to walk –
To find nourishment for my starving child
No matter how many beatings –
I have had to endure
Suffering I did not and will not choose
“Head High, Heart Strong” Poem by Jackie VanCampen
I walk freely upon the earth
Head high
Heart strong
Knowing that
Hope is my companion
I shall not dwell on yesterday
Or fret about tomorrow
Today I fill my jug
With God’s clear water
And the promise that
I shall always be free
In my heart and mind
My soul walks beside me
Impressed by my strength
Feeling proud that it has chosen
This body for its human experience
For even though this body
Has had its share of bruises
It stands tall and unencumbered
By the tempests and blows imposed by strong winds
Suffer I shall not
For I live with hope in my heart
Freedom in my mind
And peace in my soul
Inspire by Zebi's artwork
