Her appearance draws unwanted attention,
She’s judged by the veil on her head.
She sees their curious glances and reactions
But looks the other way instead.
She lowers her face, avoiding any eyes,
She’s used to this and expects it.
Some would consider curious conversation
But her evading eyes deflect it.

She wonders what it would be like to be
With family in a public place,
To not be different from the crowd, to see
Acceptance in a stranger’s face.
But deep beliefs resist any stray musings,
She’s been veiled most of her life.
Still she yearns for someone to view her as just
A woman, a mother, or wife.

Her veil and clandestine dress erects a wall,
Hides her heart, causes distrust, fear.
Not many are willing to risk her offense
Or bring possible menace near.
Do I look behind the veil to see the heart
Of a woman needing to come
To see God as a Father who loves this lost
And adrift daughter of Islam