This poem is inspired by the evenings spent around tables with new friends in Turkey that always make room for more guests. The phrase ‘merhaba, hoşgeldin’ translated to English means ‘hello, welcome’. 

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

Quaint living rooms with tables so evidently loved

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

Hosts so evidently living in the overflow

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

Room for sojourners on their way

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

Smiles and hugs that require no translation

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

Hands held, thanks be to God

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

Breaking bread and homemade soup

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

Leave room for dessert and chai tea

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

Stories and laughs that go into the night

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

The heart of the Gospel

Merhaba, hoşgeldin

The heart of the Father

Be well. Love well. Mags