Forbearance

Oh Sufi,
There are signs to show the way.

Emperor Penguins endure
icy gales, night-like days,
nestling an egg on
their belly and feet.
Starving, exhausted,
they guard their charge.

Oh Sufi,
is your heart as strong?

Can you hold precious
innocence, amidst
worldly squalls that
try to steal your joy?
Is your forbearance equal
to the Emperor Penguins’?

Oh Sufi,
find the northern lights.

They peek into your heart
cutting through ravenous
darkness and sunless days.
Al Noor melts the tundras
that obscure the Presence
of your innate tranquility.

By, Saleema