Strife -Wandering Heart-

? When the battle seem lost, and hope not nearby. I'd remember my mother's voice saying to me 'Omo mi, you sef like your peers will go to school So you can have a better fighting chance in life. Like my peers, I wasted four years of my adult life running From pillar to post; From fellowship to writing impromptu test. To more test, homework and eventually The 'oga kpatakpata' of them all examination. I shut my eyes, heart to the happenings Around me, I and something within me; Somewhat a force worked hard daily, So that I won't end up disappointing baami. But the miles to gaining one's full strength Is never close by. To God I did my best, But oga lecturer said In the university system, You have to scratch backs to pass, and My parent didn't have enough hands to spare. Throughout my curriculum, I waged wars with hunger and despair. I wore feigned smiles to class and played The role of a merry - going fellow Whenever I passed the administrative blocks. 'If I had known earlier that school was not meant For me, I for kukuma nor go waste my time there.' Goodbye friends and foes alike. For the love you showed me Whilst we were together, was insincere and spiteful. Please now are forever take your eyes off me, you ruthless liars! For your passage through this process was bought With gifts both in cash and in selfless service to humanity. Now If my father say to me, Son why didn't you do what your mates did In school to pass. I'd reply my father saying, But how do you expect me to live with myself. For lying to others I can comprehend, Not otherwise. So please mama even though the world spite me Love me dearly, for if I lose my sanity . My fate will be far worse Than those who are but only dead. Richy Talaranta X Pa Shakespeare