February 1, 2023 - “The Picture of My Friend” by Rahil Najafabadi

THE PICTURE OF MY FRIEND

Is one with many layers

Like the photo album

That has multiple photos

In one slot. She’s strong

But vulnerable to connection.

There are threads between us.

Strings and electrictity bonding,

We think of how emotional we get

Even though she hides behind the stitches.

I see her eyes and know who it is,

But when I look closely, into the portrait,

I see myself and every woman I’ve ever known.