Butterfly

The Back story

It is not always easy to tell our stories, especially when storytelling entails plunging into our painful past as survivors of war. Yet, telling the stories is paramount to shed light on people’s experiences with adversity and make their voices heard.

In a recent public talk with my friend Luma Qusus Awad, the talented Jordanian Canadian jewelry designer, I disclosed my fear of butterflies, a fear that emanates from a traumatic war experience.

Luma decided to turn this story into Art, and created a butterfly collection that she called: 🦋Nadine 🦋

When I received the beautiful pieces Luma sent me, I was engulfed by a wave of emotions. Not only was I holding a piece of jewelry that recounts my story, but this piece was also the fruit of a thoughtful and genuine friendship.

I will forever be grateful for Luma’s generosity; I will be wearing these pieces with great pride.

My poem “Butterfly”, inspired by the “Nadine” collection, is the response of the woman that I am today, to all the hardships I experienced as a child. It is my gift to every woman who lived in a war zone.

We refuse to be defined or defeated by our painful past. No fear. No broken wings…

Just like a butterfly, only the sky is our limit…🦋🦋

The Poem.. Butterfly

Stitch your wings,
ride the wind,
and fly with me,
my butterfly..
Let your heart smile,
No fear,
No broken dreams..
Embrace all the colours
of this endless sky,
leave a strip of happy ruffles,
and sail away..
Remember,
You are the princess of the fields,
You are the dancing queen,
Of your own destiny…

Nadine