MAMA

That twinkle in your eye

Your hearty laughter

The strict demeanor

Your tough exterior

The proud walk

Those elegant clothes

Those chocolate rum balls

Yes, the pineapple upside down cake too

That lecture about homework

The need to discipline

The quest for perfection

Right china and cutlery

Your wish for me to be betrothed

Your unwavering affection

That meaningful scrutiny

You guard me like a lioness does its cubs

Protected me with your wisdom

Cherished me with your unconditional love

Mama, love you right back!

AFRICA, MY AFRICA

Dusty roads and beyond capacity buses

Gossiping women in traditional garments

Wise men sitting by the roadside

Children playing with old tires

Getting my hair braided too tight

A riot in the making at the kiosk

Smell of roast tilapia and luwombo

That scorching heat engulfs me

That is the essence of my Africa

LOVE YOU DAD

Guide me through all my trials

Save me from all my mistakes

Show me the proper way

Understand me always

You are my rock

My conscience

Always loyal

Forever true

Love you Dad

RING 'EM BELLS

Those bells I see

Its here

The holiday cheer

Share and care

Tell it far and near

The festive mood is clear

As the season draws near

Full of love life and revere

I promise not to chug that beer

As I approach the new year

DWINDLE...

Spoken and not heard

Trying with no luck

Through the crowd

I feel stuck

My heart pounds faster

No end in sight

There goes the child's laughter

It echoes through the night

Blind as I am

I fear another day has passed me by

Inside is a wandering calm

I am at peace even as I cry

PLENTY OF BIRDS IN THE SKY

Two pieces fall

Then three

I'm swimming in a sea of salt

Im short with you today

The classic its not you, its me theory

Run as fast as your legs can carry you

Drop them beneath me

That load is more than you can handle

Good riddance

Under Construction

That twist and turn

Overwhelming desire to scream

The shadow lurking

A passive encounter with my ego

Lingers on and on until its no more

Quite the charade

The venue is warm

I feel the echo of the stampede

Im in sync with the it all

It vibrates from within me

Takes hold completely

Denial is not an option