Like a shelter from the storm — my arms are your home.
Like a tree standing tall, my presence is your shield.
I’m the well that never runs dry,
a river flowing through every curving bed.
In me, you’ll find strength — your root in earth.
In dreams, I am your compass when you walk astray.
I am the rock that hardens your resolve,
the bearer of your pain,
the friend you need.
Thomas Mashala is a South African poet and writer whose work explores the complexities of human nature, heritage, love, and identity in modern African life. His work has been featured in esteemed literary magazines such as the Kalahari Review and Writers Space Africa. “The Crown,” his debut short story, was selected as Editor’s choice in the December 2025 issue of Writers Space Africa literary magazine.