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Poetry / Gabay

Giving Back

A poor boy from a camp in Ethiopia, A childhood filled with struggle and agony, With dreams as big as the African sky, He saw love in a girl and wanted to try. But...

A poor boy from a camp in Ethiopia, A childhood filled with struggle and agony, With dreams as big as the African sky, He saw love in a girl and wanted to try.

But dowry fees stood in his way, He knew he couldn’t afford to pay, So he left his home and took a chance, To build a life in a faraway dance.

He came to the U.S. with nothing but hope, And worked hard to find a way to cope, With every struggle, he grew stronger still, His determination fueled his will.

His father’s words rang in his mind, Of cultural values, he was so blind, To cherish family, love, and care, And always put others’ needs to share.

And with each passing day, he grew, From a boy to a man with a heart that’s true, With education, success, and a life so bright, He never forgot his struggles of the night.

So he reached back to help those in need, Inspiring others to plant the seed, Of love and kindness, where it’s due, A life shaped by struggle, now shining bright and true.

About the Writer

Mohamed Eid writes from Somali memory, language, and public service.

Afka Suugaanta is Mohamed Eid's archive of Somali maqaalo, poetry, diaspora stories, cultural reflection, and justice-focused writing. The work is written for readers who care about language, belonging, family memory, and artistic expression.

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