What Migrating Feels Like!

Migration of body is possible, but not easy my dear

Yes, I am a soul, and I make it clear.

Souls live once, in a single life they tread,

And if they leave, they’re forever dead.

Look, I’m not leaving this world behind,

Just immigrating to a new world, refined.

Your home will stay, my body, true,

You got it, but my soul replies anew.

I live where you were born and grew,

I walked the paths of school with you.

I explored the streets with neighbours friends,

Spent late hours with those I hold dear.

My eyes love the sky above your place,

Where chicks nest in a little corner space.

Where we gathered eggs, where sparrows swim during rain,

And crows we fed on a hot summer’s day.

Now you leave this love behind, I fear.

Don’t worry, my soul, so dear, so kind,

In this new land, birds you’ll find.

But what of language? They won’t understand,

My soul’s voice might not meet their demand.

I fear they’ll see me as strange, unknown,

Like cats who may leave me all alone.

You forget, my aging home, my weakening body,

You’re 45, with strength now flown.

But love, care, and kindness, they never fade,

In every land, those words are laid.

I need your support, in this challenge we face,

Please stay with me, in every place.

___________________________________________________

Note: As I have been relocating to Australia, it feels like displacing a tree (at the age of 45) from its native soil to a different land. My heart is caught in a tug-of-war between excitement and a kind of gloominess. I am becoming double-minded. On one side, there’s an adventure of fresh air and new experiences, an invitation to explore beaches and vibrant streets, taste new foods, and much more.

But at the same time, there is also hidden fear inside my thoughts. I worry about losing my heritage, about feeling disconnected from everything and everyone I’ve known. The memories of my home back in Pakistan, my traditions, and my loved ones tightly embracing me remind me that they are at risk. Will I be able to place all these parts of my life in a place that feels so different and new?

Today, sitting in Sydney, I realize I’m starting a new chapter. Just like a tree can grow in new soil, I can learn to grow here, too. I need to stay connected to my roots while also welcoming the changes that are coming. I want to build a life that respects my past while also reaching for new opportunities. This journey may feel uncertain, but it also holds the promise of growth and new beginnings. The most important thing is that I need lots of blessings from my writing community.

With best regards

Ameer

I published this poem initially on medium.