Fear

Amel Kohli 

The American dream

A fantasy that many hear and gleam

But little do things appear as they seem

Fear is our greatest enemy, as they say

“Free speech” and “rights” that one can convey

Said as if there’s not a price to pay

As an American, born and raised

In the land, oh-so admired and praised

Reality where one is verbally shackled, and mentally enslaved

Treated as an animal, forced with a muzzle

Watching and chuckling, while putting pieces to a puzzle

While the slowly attempted yell turns to a mumble

Over time, the mumble turned to silence

From fear of others attempting violence

Stripping dignity, then deeming it as defiance

In a land that claims to be free

Where others look at us and flee

And luxury of safety is not a guarantee

Fear and hate is all that is known

And innocents are abandoned and left alone

All for religion one can stone

How drastically has the world changed

But be firm, calm and maintained

Shall justice and honor be attained

Dedicated to a friend

In a different realm, flawless and beautiful

Where lush gardens flourish by the one called Merciful

Who commands all of creation with a simple “Be”

Created a pair of souls before the sky was introduced to the sea

Brought onto the Earth, the pair were detached

Searching for one another, only to realize their love is unmatched

Deep love does this soul have for its other half

Who amidst the distance prays on its behalf

Unexpectedly in this world, my soul recognized its soulmate

At the right time of life as directed by fate

Definition she is of a friend true

Understanding different silences only she knew

Distances grew, and lives apart

But the love for her is still in my heart

Our exchanges I forever will reminisce

Our friendship and memories I dearly miss

I miss you like the sun misses the moon

When stars shine bright indicating a new day soon

And if, you find yourself lonely among the bright stars aboon

Remember that I’m there, looking at the same exact moon

Amel Kohli is a driven 21-year-old woman with a compassionate heart who aspires to make a positive impact on the lives of others through her dedication to her medical studies. She has many creative pursuits, including expressing herself through poetry. During her leisure time, she finds joy in delving into various works of literature and experimenting with international recipes in the kitchen. She enjoys breaks from her relentless work ethic with friendly competition on the badminton court, pickleball court, and soccer field. With Amel’s commitment to excellence shown through her dedication and enthusiasm, she is poised to make a meaningful impact in her life and in the lives of others.