I looked into the wise old eyes

The face, vastly wrinkled, told tales of old

But the eyes smiled with wonder

And the white turban highlighted

The darkened and worn skin.

If only I could communicate with this man, I thought

He could tell me so much

I could learn and understand

What it's like to have your home taken from you

Your life restricted, your family in danger

Yourself on the run.

The knowing eyes looked deep into mine

And at the very corners

Buried line after line

I could see him smile at me

Though his face remain unchanged.

I was mesmerized and absorbed

And I cried inside

With an understanding.

We had communicated with love

The Afghan and me.