Art from the Heart

“I am a girl from Gaza; from amidst the destruction and the rubble, a dream emerged and took flight. From amidst the smoke of war and the sound of explosions, I plant a flower with my hand and write ‘victory’ upon it. I am not just a child; I am a small homeland—my heart is peace, and destiny is in my eyes. I dream of bringing laughter back to every corner, rebuilding our hearts before we rebuild the neighborhoods. My father taught me that hope never dies, that stones can become homes, and that knowledge is my weapon when I grow up, and that despite the pain, I will not be broken. O world, listen to me: I want a school and colors; I want a book for my dream as a human being. I want to go back to running and singing in the street, feeling that tomorrow will embrace me. Gaza is not just pain and groaning; she is life, she is the dream of millions. And I am her child who dreams of building, painting a tomorrow and a hope that grows bigger and bigger. I am Gaza, I am the dream that cannot be broken; I am a child, but my heart is an age.”