The first of a series of poems exploring belonging, being an insider, being an outsider, loneliness. Emotions which are especially relevant for those who have, or do, live their life in many places, and never know which one to call home.

Insiders

.

With laughter, language all your own,

Huddled around a meal, a fire, a phone,

Vibes bind you in un-worded bond,

Instinctively, I sense that I’m beyond,

Beyond the edge, the reach, your life.

Outsider outside, looking in.

.

A glow on faces, earnest, warm,

Not just the light, but something more,

A sense of sharedness, faith or love,

Obliviously, you’re keeping out,

Unconsciously you’re closing ranks,

The key is lost, the code forgot.

.

And though it’s been a good, long while,

I recognize that spreading smile,

There was a time, I hold it still,

There was an ease, a golden day.

And though the brightness burns dry eyes

I find I cannot turn away.

.

Arua 2022