This week’s poem honors two great men: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (whose birth we celebrate this month) and Bishop Desmond Tutu (whose death we mourned last month). Although they lived continents apart, they had much in common. Both dreamed of a world less riddled with discrimination and violence, and both turned that dream into actions aimed at building more equal, just, and peaceful societies. Despite being hated by many, both refused to hate in return, choosing instead to be guided by forgiveness and love. Both won the Nobel Peace Prize for their tireless efforts. And both resolutely held onto hope, even when there seemed little to hope for.

I chose this poem because it expresses in simple but beautiful words that undaunted spirit of hope. It was written by Salimata Coulibaly, a 16-year-old student from Mali. Coulibaly composed it in the midst of armed conflict driving children like her from their homes.

Life is a Test of Hope

by Salimata Coulibaly

From my veins, the blood flows
Through my racing heart
I am the pen that carries the desire to touch each heart,
And with my faith light it up with joy.

To live in solidarity with others in this world
I am the thirsty soul of a world without divisions
A world willing to learn and where each failure is synonymous with courage
I refuse to give in to any despair.

To read more poems of peace by youth across the globe, please visit the website of Voices of Youth.