As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow

by Zoulfa Katouh

No country in the world will love you as yours does.”

It hurts to see him, a dead man walking, when he has the power to influence the world.

But I’m Syrian. This is my land, and just like the lemon trees that have been growing here for centuries, spilled blood won’t stop us. I have my faith in God. He’ll protect me. I’ve been force-fed oppression, but I will no longer swallow its bitter taste. No matter what.”