In an unremarkable building across the world,
there is an extraordinary place called Crochet.
Where women in a foreign land find hope;
healing from a travesty unbeknownst to most.
Woven baskets of every color and size imaginable,
line the walls of the humble haven.
Each one, as unique as its creator;
conveying her story of a journey far from over.
A delectable aroma fills the room.
Two women move purposefully about,
as they prepare to share:
coffee and a memoir.
Rich in flavor and steeped in tradition;
a ceremony that has outlived the generations.
Replete with coffee and equal parts conversation;
a threefold past about to be relived.
A kernel of corn explodes with a “pop”;
A gun sounds in a country torn by war.
The enticing smell of roasted beans is wafted towards a face;
A dream of a fresh start is born.
The bitter taste of coffee hits the tongue;
She grapples with the decision to leave everything behind.
Bitterness gives way to sweetness, as sugar eclipses coffee;
The journey towards freedom has begun.
Again…
A kernel of corn explodes with a “pop”;
Danger lurks around every corner.
The enticing smell of roasted beans is wafted towards a face;
Safe passage through the Sinai is promised.
The bitter taste of coffee hits the tongue;
A price is put on a life, as scars are inflicted on mind, body,
and soul.
Bitterness gives way to sweetness, as sugar eclipses coffee;
Loved ones pay a ransom in exchange for liberation.
Once more…
A kernel of corn explodes with a “pop”;
Bullets narrowly miss the target as she flees across the
boarder.
The enticing smell of roasted beans is wafted towards a face;
A breath is caught as visions of a bright future fill a head.
The bitter taste of coffee hits the tongue;
Rightful status is denied and a man accepts a bribe to forsake
his family.
Bitterness gives way to sweetness, as sugar eclipses coffee;
Unshaken faith and kindred spirits give a wearied soul the
strength to carry on.
Though the last drop of liquid has left the jebena,
the narrative will not soon be forgotten.
Told by two, but lived by many;
An unfathomable truth that pierces hearts.
Hardship, pain, cruelty, yes;
Victims, definitely.
Yet, a different image of the women emerges:
One of unparalleled strength and beauty.
Through hell and back;
Marred, but not broken.
Scars that serve as a reminder,
but through choice, have not become a definer.
Advocacy for those left behind;
Healing for those who have survived.
This is the mission and the call;
Brought to fruition by a place called Crochet.