Take me Back

One sister reflects on Rihla and her longing to return to the illuminated city.

Trying to get back to the world in vain

My heart isn't with me -- please don't bring me back to the mundane


Take me back to a place where the Blessed and Beloved walked
Studying the route of Hijra his path I want to chalk


Take me back to a time where from me the world was severed
Immersed in the Seerah, that is all we remembered


Take me back to a tender heart where I learned to love
Getting to know for the first time the one most loved


Take me back to my strength where I scaled a mountain to get a whiff
Weeping as I did for I was not worthy of even that sniff


Take me back to my home where like snakes we would crawl
Seeking comfort in prayer five times when called


Take me back to the companionship of fellow travelers
Mercy and kindness toward each other, all just pilgrims and gatherers


Take me back to where I can be content with nine articles of clothing
Souvenir rings are just not as soothing


Take me back to a view of the minarets and dome
Breathing an air purified by the chlorophyll where restless hearts who
want to meet him again roam


Take me back to the carpet that will return
Shaking as we would knowing it wasn't too far from there a tree did
mourn


Take me back most merciful of merciful, to the city of fragrance and
light
Take me back. Take me back. I beg of you...
Take me back to what has become my heart's delight