“First Job Ballad,” by Elaha, a graduated ESOL student
Elaha, a 19-year-old Afghan woman, arrived in the US in 2021 as a refugee. She and her relatives shared a small house provided by Catholic Charities. Soon after, she embarked on her ESOL journey with Martha, a volunteer tutor who not only taught her English but also became her friend, mentor, adopted family member, and greatest fan. You can read Elaha and Martha’s story here.
Elaha graduated from ESOL and is now taking curriculum courses at AB Tech. She plans to become a neurosurgeon! She wrote the poem “First Job Ballad,” and we are sharing it with her permission. I hope it inspires you as much as it has inspired us! Ours is a country of immigrants, new beginnings, and dreams come true. Thank you, Elaha, for putting the experiences of so many into this beautiful poem!
“Never been outside, never alone,
First job ever, without even a phone,
Waiting on people, “What did you say?”
They repeat and repeat, all through the day.
Today is Ramadan, no water, no food. Not allowed either, affecting my mood. From pouring coffee to perfecting service, Filling to the brim is making me nervous.
Fasting, not feasting; wrapped head to toe, Aroma of chocolate, still I had to say no. Would people reject me and wonder aloud, “What is she doing in this local crowd?” As each person asks, “What did you say?” Repeating, repeating, all through the day.
Pleased to discover much kindness shown, With each passing day, success has grown. In my nineteenth year, the first ever pay, How powerful it felt to now have a say. No need to repeat, for now, I am heard, Laughing and joking, I know every word.
Succeeding in work, now given much praise, How quickly a year has changed all the days. Alive in America, a new world begins, The horizon ahead shows nothing but wins.”
I want to thank Literacy Together for all the good things they have done. They gave me the most valuable gift, my friend Martha. She is a gift of God and Literacy Together in my life, and I am very thankful to Erin, who matched Martha and me together. In this new journey of my life, Martha is like an angel who helps me and teaches me everything, not just English. I am very thankful. ~Elaha
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