The Book of Hope is an invitation to reflect on how knowledge, memory, and hope endure through the strength of those who choose to rise.
RISE, FOR THIS IS YOUR DAY
Rise, for this is your day.
Rise, and shake off the dust of time.
Rise, for you are the maker of life; without you, life itself would not exist.
Rise, for you are the light that gives every home its warmth.
Rise, and never surrender to the hands that push you backward and leave you confined within four walls.
Rise, for every wall will bow before you when you rise.
Rise, for God has granted you the strength of patience, resilience, and faith,
and the wings of hope you create for yourself, so that you may soar wherever you choose.
Rise, for God created you with a crown, so that you may always stand proud
and never bow to this cruel time.
Rise, O maker of love and life—you, and no one else... only you.
Zainab AbdulKarim
Written for International Women's Day, 08 March 2016
