Independence Day celebrates freedom and unity, but the world remains divided. In this poem, Sara, from Lahore, speaks of two friends’ yearnings, exclusively in Different Truths.

There is a world divided so coldly
Many stories about it are told so boldly
Each story is proclaimed there
Across the border or where
On one side of the line, my friend was born
We hailed her at dawn
Her eyes were showing the beauty of her native land
As said, I am your only friend,
 
In lands apart, we were living
Our spirits soared with best wishing
We found our way in the twilight
Not on earth is a plight
Together, we sit on a starry night
Whispered secrets in each other’s ears
Time will pass and take away all fears,
Our feelings are sweet and true
Speaking of passions and dreams to value
We share hopes, ambitions grand
Across the border, hand in hand,
We hope to make our bond stronger
Let’s embrace each other and mourn no longer
It is said that love prevails
The mistaken judgement wails
The power of love is always undenied
From hearts to feelings, no one can divide
This line between the lands will be stitched one day
This is all we wish for; this is all we can pray.

Picture design by Anumita Roy

Sara Arshad

Sara Arshad is an English teacher. She taught in various institutes all over Lahore, Pakistan. In her free time, she enjoys writing heartfelt personal poetry that makes the reader see the world through her perspective and journey. She is a working member of the South Asian Peace Action Network and a member of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. Her syndicated features have made a place in renowned journals around the globe.