Crossing the Line

Back in their homes in a divided land,
Two teenagers online devised a plan—
West Jerusalem girl, so bright and fair,
East Jerusalem boy, with mind of care.
They decided to meet at twilight hour
In a city torn by rivals’ power.
But as they embarked, the cell service failed;
Thus their doubts and nerves quickly upscaled.
Heading for rendezvous in a school yard
Each sought a way to dodge the patrol guard
Despite confusing, unfamiliar streets,
They at last came together, hearts a beat—
She donning a dress with stripes blue and white,
He a jersey visible in the dim light.
They smiled shyly, both feeling some fear;
But as they talked, reservations disappeared.
They compared details of their lives and dreams,
Finding they weren’t as unlike as it seemed.
He told her proudly of family and home,
Of struggles past and hopes he did not own.
She listened with empathy in her eyes,
Quietly challenging both factions’ lies.
She whispered of her concerns and desires
In a future offering just raging fires.
Then he grasped her hand with a gentle touch;
And felt his heart flutter a bit too much.
As the night gave way to dawn’s rising light,
They knew time together would soon take flight.
But in one another, they’d found a spark,
Seeded bond that defies the shadows dark.
They leave the encounter, still hand in hand,
In a land where peace is just a dreamland.
Though the prospect seems a long way away,
They keep hope good sense will return one day.