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The Outward Journey

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Africa was where I learnt to love nature

________________________________

I was seven when we departed for East Africa
and what a journey lay ahead of us. First the
Suez  canal which felt like you could touch the
opposite bank as we sailed through them.
We saw plenty of crocs and native people
hard at work planting and growing crops
dressed in very colourful long robes
Then out into the red sea on our way 
to crossing the meridian date line
Back then in 1958 Neptune board
the ship and a ding dong party
took place welcoming him aboard.
On we went to Zanzibar and The
trade people looked pirates
These natives ware the first dark
skinned people we had met and
many of them bore horrific scars
with ears and limbs missing we
stuck close to our mum while
she reassured us they meant
us no harm we weighed anchor
and set off on the last leg of
our journey and docked in 
Dar-es-Salaam on my eight 
Birthday and to ten years of
pure bliss what a place to
grow up in I often wish 
I was still there

Copyright © | Year Posted 2024




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Date: 5/1/2024 8:48:00 AM
I am well. Officially retired as of yesterday. These days I am posting more on Facebook these days.
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Date: 4/30/2024 8:49:00 AM
Lovely poem my friend.. I know it is a beautiful place and when we are surrounded by cold weather and concrete we miss it..
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Date: 4/29/2024 11:04:00 AM
That’s quite the adventure. Thanks for sharing.
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Shadow Hamilton
Date: 4/29/2024 1:19:00 PM
ty Richard long time no see hope all is well hugs Shadow
Date: 4/29/2024 9:08:00 AM
WOW!!! What a wonderful story/write. Good memories are the best kind to keep..... Have a fun day writing away.....................
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Shadow Hamilton
Date: 4/29/2024 10:47:00 AM
TY Paula I saw many wonderful things a lot of them are in my early poems on here like come walk with me hugs Shadow
Date: 4/29/2024 7:23:00 AM
Dear Shadow, your reminiscence of Africa brims with memories and nostalgic longing. What a journey back in time to the wonder and innocence of childhood, shaped by the landscapes and encounters with diverse cultures. I loved how your words evoke a sense of yearning for a place with precious memories of growth and joy. Shadow, what a heartfelt reflection on a cherished chapter of your life. - Blessings, Daniel
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Shadow Hamilton
Date: 4/29/2024 8:04:00 AM
I have just taken the good parts Daniel it was not always like that my father was a harsh and difficult man who ruled us like he was still a captain in the army but I have risen above all that and left him behind long ago I choice to remember only the good hugs Shadow

Book: Radiant Verses: A Journey Through Inspiring Poetry