My New Name

She gave me a new name that feeds my soul when others label me, this makes me whole from heritage is where she drew the word I must confess this name I'd never heard Aneolani, what endearing name! to what it means, I cannot lay a claim a "breath of heaven", oh, what pure delight that she thinks this of me makes darkness bright the name is more befitting to her heart she stood by me when I was torn apart And though she's far away, I feel her near My "Fereshteh", she banishes the fear My name for you is ANGEL, can't you see? For you bring paradise so close to me Eileen Manassian This poem is dedicated to my dear friend, FJ Thomas who is no longer part of this community. FJ recently sent me a message saying that she has given me the name Aneolani, which in Hawaiian means "breath of heaven". I know I am not deserving, but I can assure you that I will treasure that name forever. I, in turn, have named her Fereshteh, which in Persian means ANGEL. FJ is the one who gifted me several Premium memberships and a Life time membership. She is the one who sent me a tiara and three crowns via post to Lebanon. She is the one who makes me believe in the goodness of people. To say I love this woman is an understatement. I'm sad we've lost her poetic voice here. She writes with fire and power. She is all I admire in a woman: strength, intelligence, and spirit.