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Another Day In Africa

In Africa another day is born
At dawn
The optimist awakes
To a world that’s bright with receding night
Hope and promise of things new
A world where dreams come true

In Africa another day is done
At dusk with setting sun
The pessimist seems right
In the fading light 
Of yet another day
Where despair and failure
Lie strewn along his way

Africa’s sun at noon 
Hangs suspended in the sky
Held in equilibrium 
And pulled between the two 
This dark continent illuminated
Her wonders and woes exposed, juxtaposed
And in the balance
Dangles her destiny

Rhythmic people sing their songs prolifically
In unmatched harmonies 
Ladies curtsey in respect
Where culture holds the sway

Noisy kids at play
The epitome of community
They learn to serve and share and care
Well muscled men with pride defend
Their dark identity

Your people with poise and patience
Meekness and strength
Move along unhurriedly
You’re blessed abundantly
Game runs free
Stunning lakes and rivers, forests and plains
And summer rains

Busy markets bustling with traders
And splashed with colour
All enhance your wonder

Africa the cradle of humanity
If true begs a question or two
Why have you not advanced?
And why are you so poor?

Hungry children with hollow eyes
Roam around in rags
Corrupt dictators with degrees
Have learned to take a bribe
Your breadbasket has become a begging bowl

Migrants in their thousands leave your shores
Because of wars
In search of greener fields
With arrogance you name and blame
It’s not your fault
So you become the victim
The one entitled to

You’re held in chains and still not free
Although you brag of
Madiba’s legacy

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