Canab was a little beautiful girl with big cheerful dreams

A girl who grew up in a farm with little needs

A speaking truth of Somali beauty with her straight nose and long braids

Tall and curvy she walked effortlessly with pride and grace

Wearing diirac, her guntiino tied over her shoulder draped around her waist

She shepherded, grazed the sheep and blissfully guided them back before the day slip away

Sheep and camels were her dear friends

Stories and radios were her only window to the world over seas

She dreamed of going to school and travelling outside her small cage

And every night she whispered to the white moon before she fall asleep

She told him about all the great things she wanted to achieve

All the things her small heart desired and pleased

One day, she heard rumours in the village, shocking, horrifying she shook her head in disbelief      

She was promised to an old man, rich they say

She used to dream of her prince charming just like any other bae

But no not this one she never expected or foresaw in her wildest dreams

Her heart beating fast, bug eyed she dragged her feet looking for her dad

Father..Sweaty face, yellowish pained eyes, tired hands and feet.

Their eyes met, he nodded.. Her heart dawdled.. universe span.. her demons unveiled