There was once water here,
where cracked earth now sighs,
where hands reach out for mercy,
and find only empty skies.
There was once kindness here,
in the shape of outstretched palms,
where nations wove their promises
into bandages and balms.
But now the wells run hollow,
their echoes sharp with thirst,
as men cold and colourless
decide who suffers first.
There was once hope here,
stitched in grains of scattered seed,
but hunger walks with quiet steps
where justice used to lead.
And while the tyrants rise,
while tanks line the shore,
the world grows smaller, darker,
behind a closing door.
There was once water here
now dust is all we keep,
for when we turn our backs on need,
the rivers too will weep.
Chilufya is a woman born and raised on a beautiful continent. Chilufya writes poems as a celebration of human diversity and a useful outlet for frustration with the tribulations and rare triumphs of the world today. She lives in Lusaka, Zambia
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Hi Chilufya,
I love it. I saw your oracle on the Common Man, the other day and I figured you are quite gifted.
I love this piece as well. Perhaps because it shows how even as you further yourself in the water of international waters, your sighs deepen and begin to resemble those of the too wise a man. Vanity, sighs he, as thee, when the golden bowl is broken, when pitcher shattered at the fountain and wheel broken at the well, then both you and he too, then see dust as a must. Because there was once, but now no longer any water, only dust
Such an inspiring and beautiful poem. I loved it so much. Keep up the good work!!!