UMMUHAQ

I dwelled in wilderness

I swam in a dark sea

I treaded with a blindfold

And got entangled

But I found a rescuer

That gave me dignity

It shielded me from harassment

It protected me from assault

It gave me pride and modesty

I reclaimed my honour

It earned me integrity

And placed me in a class

Only the faithful appreciate belonging

A rare garment

A unique one at that

My Hijab my pride!

They say am old fashioned

They call me a Ninja

They say am uncivilized

They go ‘this is barbaric’

‘I can’t imagine myself in that thing’

But I smile with assurance

For that ’thing’ is my insurance

And am glad to include it in my dress code

shun condemnation

And rebuff rebuke

I remain undaunted

I walk with so much conviction

With no iota of doubt

‘Cos am on the right course

My Hijab my companion

My Hijab, my pride!