In the mosque

In the mosque the Muslim children assemble
on Sunday mornings in straight lines
(may their paths too be straight, insha' Allah)
There is movement, but order and discipline are kept.
They are filled with joy, with wonder
with excitement and delight.

Some of them (the youngest ones mostly)
speak, albeit softly -- for they are among peers and friends,
their special ummah, and filled with that
unique joy and communal spirit
always present where the Spirit of the Divine
resides and blows, like soft Gentle wind.

The Imam stands before them, and recites
the holiest of words --
the children repeat, with delight, as an inner peace
warms them.  I can see them glow.
They are as lights, illuminating this Holy House
this Holy Place, where they will study
and learn of Allah's Love, Benificence,
Glory, Magnificence, Forgiveness and Grace.

When their recitations are complete,
they depart in lines, ALMOST orderly.
And yet, as some of them begin to RUN,
so eager to learn, their footsteps as light as feathers,
I have seen them almost fly -- walking on air.