Slave

I could hear the footsteps  
hiding deep within the bush
We'd stop the children's breathing
to keep  whites from finding us….
we all were mighty fearless warriors
painted shields and blessed by  fire
but the metal spears they carried
could set our very souls on fire….
The last thing I woke to remember 
was the taste of salt and sand
as I fell towards the water
western shoes crushing my hands….
chained us in a wooden beast
like cattle led to slaughter
fed us the left over feasts
and rarely gave us any water….
The dead that were thrown overboard
slackened chains that made us worth
twice the value that was meant
as the ship rocked back and forth….
Though we all spoke different tongues
We could make out every cry
My enemies that were before
Were forced to become my ally…
Kings and queens in iron bands
Comforting our weak and brave
No matter what we may become
I will never die a slave…

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