I I cannot hold your sorrow
But I am sorry for the bullets
and the fragments of the bullets.
I am sorry Sami Ahmen and the baby
are dead.
I cannot help you.
I am over here
and my house is small
and the terror of your lives
has heated the house for a day
and now is gone
even though the windows were closed
and the books were on the shelves
and the newspapers were on the table.
II I try to read, to be attentive,
a good citizen.
I wipe my chin at the end of each meal.
I listen to the learned experts.
I read the columns on the editorial page.
I go to live theater not just the movies.
I pay attention to assertions emanating
from both ends of the political spectrum.
I have vigiled for peace.
I have donated to Amnesty International.
I try to think for myself and like you
I love my country but perhaps not enough.
People of Sadr City, I am sorry for the bullets
and the fragments of bullets.
-- Karen Havnaer
Last updated: February 17, 2005