A Pakistan Story
Of all turmoil in this troubled world,
my heart sinks learning of Malala.
For three years she wrote a diary about
loving school: language, history, algebra.
This galled the enemy. They believe women
changing, learning, working, is anathema.
In Swat Valley the enemy rules, destroyed
200 schools, following their formula
for preventing females from learning.
But Malala refuses to be incognita—
this bold beautiful teen declares she’ll go
to school, and waves goodbye to grandmama.
Malala holds her head high, called
to be a leader, not a pariah.
Now they’ve shot you, lovely daughter. I cry
and pray for your shining recovery, brave Malala.
