I learn German
Because the one that was meant
Was born in this language
I learn Italian
Because the ones that I once met
Were most charming friends
I learn Modern Greek
Because the food I once shared
Had roots from blue islands
I learn Hebrew
Because the ones who suffered
Can teach the way of survival
I’ll start over Arabic
Because I want brothers to bond
Within the lines of its calligraphy
I’ll brush up my Russian
Because I like the warmest sounds
Of “babooshka” from the taiga
I’ll start Wolof
Because of a love song so suited
To the deserts and gods of Africa
I’ll face Chinese
Until I master its tones and strokes
Because that’s what my dad spoke
I learn all of these languages
Because I have loved the people
Who speak in mysterious words
If ever, hopefully,
There are people I still haven’t loved
The thing I’ll do is learn their tongues
The effort makes me suffer and smile
But we may be friends from far beyond.