Forget awkward, improvised toasts. If you want to wish a Somali couple well, you write them a poem. And not just a few lines. Minnesota resident Fadumo Ali is famous for her wedding poetry, like this excerpt from her 2008 poem, translated into English by Said Mohammed.
Sweet words, smooth love and open hands
Beautiful behavior, sweetness and success
May God give them to you and make them your partners
And may luck be on your side and time help you out
Like the Nairus festival or a downpour in the Nugal [Valley]
Like the green pastures where the fat livestock is grazing
Good prospects, mercy of God and victory
The ease of prosperity, and expectations of good things
May God provide you with his kindness
May you stay in peace of mind all your lives
Clouds of prosperity, a full beaker and fortunate deeds
Wonderful kids without any shortcomings
The forefront parents of yours who were sought by all
[Be] like them a lighthouse not swaying aside
Good inheritance from your ancestors’ path
With wealth and general progress
Oh, Lord! Give them your bounty and affluence.