Ummul is from Dubai Gems Private School and studies in grade 12. Ummul feels being her first participation at a Poetic Heart even is a brilliant initiative the SGI has taken to talk about social issues, through poetry which is like art specially in the Arab World it is used as a platform to express one’s feelings and we have some eminent poets in the Arab world .
Umual also feels that the young students can join as a community with SGI to address more and more issues like female infanticide etc. and would certainly like to participate again in the event as this is one way to give back to the society.
This poem is a story of the tree – that was once a frail sapling, a tiny nut or a miniscule seed. A day came when it stood tall with its roots grounded, branches all stretched out towards the sky, braving all the atrocities by nature or by men to give shade, to bear fruits, beautiful fragrant flowers – for it to be only chopped off mercilessly, killed in cold blood, wounded and bleeding.
Will I Live To See Another Sunrise
I sensed him arriving from far away
I knew today was going to be my last day.
The sun’s rays were warm and bright
But around me I saw a remorseful sight.
My dear friends mercilessly chopped down,
Their bodies taken away, with a thick rope bound.
I glanced one last time at the skies
Because I wouldn’t live to see another sunrise.
He walked towards me-face pitiless and grim
Must he have known, he was committing a sin?
He carried an axe, his grip was firm and tight
Its sharp and glistening blade was a petrifying sight.
He struck me once; I shuddered in pain
I winced in agony, when he struck me again.
I passed out due to the pain, with no hope to survive
Didn’t I, a verdant tree, deserve to stay alive?
They came in swarms, shouted slogans, hugged and saved me,
Obliged to them, I will remain for eternity.
The next day was a new morning; I stood forlorn and alone
With axe wounds on my body and all my friends gone.
About the School
Dubai Gems Private School is a school renowned for its academic accomplishments, unity, and notable professional teaching staff. Currently Dubai Gem is located on two sites; a Nursery located in Al Hudaiba, and the Foundation, Primary and Secondary School located in Oud Metha.
Dubai Gem follows the British Cirriculum leading to ‘O’, ‘AS’, ‘A’ Levels. It is affiliated to the Cambridge University of London and is recognized by the Ministry of Education, Dubai. The school aims at developing an international tone and providing an educational environment that promotes responsibility and choice. Emphasis is placed on the active participation of the students. The language of instruction and communication is English and the majority of text books used are imported from the United Kingdom.
English is studied as a first language. Arabic is mandatory from FS 1 to Year 10 and optional from Year 11 onwards. Children from Year 1 onwards can choose French, Hindi or Urdu as a second language. Islamic Studies and the Quran are mandatory for Islamic students while non-islamic students study Moral Science. Other subjects taught include Mathematics, Science, Social Studies and Computer Studies. Music, Art, Physical Education and Games are also included in the time table.
