we are not numbers

emerging writers from Palestine tell their stories and advocate for their human rights

God is not a hairdesser

God is about heart, not hair or dress.
Basman Derawi
  • Gaza Strip
  • Diaspora
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I cut my hair,
shaved my beard,
for the sake of change,
a new look.
A friend once said,
God is not a hairdresser.

I think he's right.
Why would God care
how we wear our hair?
How long or short our sideburns?
Whether or not we have a beard?
If we wear a hat or turban?

I always question my beliefs,
but this I know:
God is about “heart,”
how we live our lives,
not hair or dress.

We humans exist to
share, care and discover.
Not to humiliate and kill.
No one of us is the “chosen” best.

 

Woman in sunglasses in front of fountain.
Mentor: Pam Bailey

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