Heaven on Earth

Hala Khaldi

Hala Khaldi

Hala Khaldi is a third-year Optometry student at UNSW. Her poem "Syrian Streets" was published in the 2023 UNSWeetened online journal. She is interested in reading Arabic poetry by incredible poets such as Nizar Qabbani and Mahmoud Darwish. 

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In the darkest nights, we say 

Is where the brightest stars lay. 

 

With a cold, heavy weighted sigh, 

I watch a shooting star pass by. 

 

With a wish close to my tender heart, 

The gloomy sky slowly starts to part. 

 

In the chilly breeze of the night. 

A bright crescent comes into sight. 

 

It’s throne proudly hangs above the buildings and streets, 

Watching humanity’s greatest victories and defeats. 

 

Listening, to even the quietest  

Heart as it beats. 

 

Looking at the troubled souls’ plea, 

As all the night owls are set free. 

 

Locked in a vault the deepest secrets it keeps,  

Protected and safe as the whole world sleeps.  

 

In the tranquil chirping of the land 

It’s the friend that listens, understands. 

 

Modern day to ancient history 

People admire its beauty and mystery. 

 

My glowing eyes reflect every sparkle and shine. 

A miracle taking my breath away every time. 

 

The soft twinkle of the midnight sky,  

Gently wiping the tear from my eye.  

 

Silver rays dance in the midnight air. 

Humming the moonlight song with no despair. 

 

As the gust of wind whispered in my ear, 

I knew heaven on Earth Could only be here.