Hijab

It is Advent, the season in which we await the birth of Jesus. My MA alma mater has placed a professor on administrative leave. She decided to where a hijab in support of Muslim brothers and sisters. Really, Wheaton, really?

I can’t help but think

The hijab worn

In Wheaton hallways

Inspired fear,

Brought immediate response

Just as much as those airplanes

In New York,

At the Pentagon,

In that Pennsylvania field.

A simple headscarf

Worn for Advent

Brought a more immediate response

Than the impending

Birth of Jesus

A tiny baby,

Already King of the Universe.

He came to hold

All of our hands,

So we,

All of us,

Would know

No fear.

Falafel

I love such conversations. I am glad my beloved teaches at Northeastern IL.

I was reminded again

Of the United Nations

My beloved teaches,

My beloved serves.

In the middle of the packed party

The woman

In a white hijab

Tells me falafel comes from

Saudi Arabia.

I have heard so many countries claim

Falafel.

I went to a church

And asked if I was welcome

She said.

I was told

Only people who love Jesus

Are welcome.

Oh well then

She said

That is fine.

I too love Jesus.