Ever since that day in July nothing has been the same
Ever since that day in July everything has changed

Police sirens, the constant wailing, used to be so rare
Nowadays, that’s all I hear

I try to carry on my life, as it is not me to blame
When I go out into the big wide world all I have is my faith, my mind and me
I don't care much for weapons or bombs,
but I appreciate being free

As I sit on the train with my paper in hand I am just like u,
An inhabitant of this land

I feel your eyes upon me silently judging, but never really knowing,
why I dress this way or why I lower my gaze,
This is truly me and not just a phase

Your eyes staring so coldly, I carry on acting boldly but hiding my tears inside.
I want to tell you I am not to be blamed,
all Muslims have now been framed

Why do you look at me this way, or some of you turn away in dismay
Now just have a good look to see who I am,
As I have 2 eyes that see the world in colour – Like you have
As I have blood in my veins that rushes and gushes inside me – like you have

As I have a brain, the same size as yours that's full of thoughts, feelings and knowledge
          – like u have
Created equal are you and I
Man creates the divisions
I do not agree with evil provisions

I am just a traveller in this life, I do not have time for unnecessary strife
I am just trying to get from A to B,on the train, by bus or by feet

Its up to my destiny who I shall meet
Will they understand my faith, that I am me,
A Muslim whose religion is peace?
or will they stare, curse and judge like the dark age lease?

I am a respectful citizen who aspires to do well,
These false Muslims have now made each day hell.

They have caused my brothers and sisters to suffer
They have put the blame on us,
Now who is there left to trust?

This is not my religion, this was not what I was taught
These vicious people need to be sought
So that the lies must be fought

We used to be like birds soaring high in the sky
Now stop and search, suspicious eyes on law abiding lives.

Standing firm for Justice, in Peace we Trust
Standing together for Humanity, we Must

Ignorance must be overcome by knowledge
That knowledge is Islam, definitely not firearms
Indeed the times are changing … and the era is raging
There is no need for a war to be waging

Tayaba Shaukat