Peace begins here
in the darkest hour
with our backs to the wall
and too much to lose.
Peace does not begin over latkes and cookies,
or by switching off our phones.
Peace begins after decades of planning,
much communication,
of growing stronger and training responses
that make our boundaries clear.
Peace does not look like a dove
or a palm branch in the Old City.
Peace begins when we are done with suffering
when we are firm and determined,
and when we don’t care anymore
what others may think.
Peace begins here.
Right at this moment.
It begins with the small gestures
of affirmation and care,
for who we are and ought to be,
over and over again.
