Handshake Poem by Nassy Fesharaki

Handshake

For years lived in exile
Thinking of my deeds, done!

See me lead committee,
In a mosque, had men, guns,
Men brought a girl in,
With backpack, communist!

Had power, so, saved her,
Dug myself deep grave!

Threatened, was fired,
And handcuffed, imprisoned.

When found path, I scaped,
Burned bridge, ran away! "

In times I convict me!
In times I forgive me!

While I am in limbo
Days and nights make me old.

And my sin?
Handshaking…

Said: "Pigeons and vultures,
Communists and the sheikhs,
Men, women, old and young
Are sisters, brothers, equals."

Physically, mentally,
Guess I am quite sick,
Desperate for psychic!

Ruined life of my wife,
And our kids, those around!

See me kneel on knees,
With remorse, I plead:
"I repent, forgive me! "