Alkebulan
I recognised myself in the humble eyes of the continent,
As the vibrant red earth seeped into my bare feet,
Time in Africa was like no western clock,
the sun kept time as it graciously gifted its heat.
I pray each man and lady have their chance,
To visit the plains where beauty is pure,
Where the smile from the woman selling her fruit,
Provides the cocoon of feeling secure.
The vigilant monkeys parade between homely shacks.
Jumping in search from tree to tree,
Looking at us asking for a share of our meals,
And snatching it fast if we disagree.
Take me back to the motherland,
To experience the tender kiss of humid air again,
I shall hitchhike a ride to the nearest town,
For Africa is rich and I’ve still got some years to spend.
DV
Inspiration
“Africa has her mysteries and even a wise man cannot understand them. But a wise man respects them.” Africa is a continent like no other. Both my parents were born on African lands and every time my feet touch the rich soil I am greeted with this powerful feeling of returning home. On this particular occasion my best friend, girlfriend and I went to indulge in some street food in a local village on the coast of Kenya. I bought some food from this lady who sat there, smiling a smile that made me feel as if all was good in the world and it would continue to remain so. She embodied everything the land represents, life in its purest and rawest form.