I never really cared much for New Year’s celebrations—a giant ball dropping, some fireworks, shitty music…honestly, why bother? But there is one tradition I’ve come to appreciate since the surgery: my annual update.

I hope you rot, the worm said to the apple. Why? responded the apple. I have not wronged you; I welcomed you in.

Steady your pens...

Feed Palestine.

Once the fire was extinguished, Ali searched the ruins. There was nothing of material value to be found—he knew this—the bomb had torn through his home as if it was made of paper mache.