Through the alleyways of life

I came through the alleyways of Shemiran
            The desert, and sand dunes of Pars
                        Reciting Hãfez, Saâdï, and Rumï
 
Through a thousand cities and towns
            I crossed many alleyways and streets
                        Trying not to forget Ferdowsï
 
There are alleyways everywhere in the world
            Some are lined with cobblestones and flowerpots
                        Others reek of poverty and excrement
 
Today, many are hoping for new pathways to walk through
            Mine's been a journey that has taken a lifetime
                        Along the way, I have learned that our lives are molded,
                                    Not by the knowledge that we gain
                                                But by the choices that me make!
 
I've been lucky to find a way out of adversity
            Learn medicine, and serve my fellowman
                        All the while hoping not to forget
                                    The choices that brought me today.
 
So I teach my children and students to be wary of their choices
            For the reason of the roundness of the world
                        Is for the future to stay hidden beyond its curve
                                    Be careful in choosing your options
                                                And hope to walk the alleyways of happiness. 
 
Reza Ghadimi
October 2021