(dedicated to Abass Sesay)

You remind us of what happened
On January 6th, 1998;
A senseless war, brainless fools.
Hate swallowed their love,
Land that we love,
Just vain words in the air.
A baby you were when your
Hands were chopped off,
Ahhhhh, who has the heart to hurt a baby?
I hate to think how many babies
Were killed on that day,
For I know today they would have
Been fine men and fine women.
The pain and shame of growing
Incomplete; that look of others,
And his head sunk deeper,
Crashing deep into the earth core.
Yet, you didn't give in,
You lived for all of us,
You walked with your head up.
Many times I tried to imagine the
Atmosphere of the last moments
Of my fallen country people,
I couldn't continue;
I always felt like I was them.
My friend, my brother,
You are a survivor,
Now a mentor to many.
The oozing blood you tamed,
Your fears you caged,
And you grew up ready.
The babies weeping,
The harmattan winds blowing,
Oh! Son of the soil, you defeated hate.
You won, forgiving soul,
Love is peace, I call you legend.
You have lived a legendary life so far.
Precious as a diamond in the ground,
An errors it was,
Now, a badge of honour; wear
It and break free from fear;
You are the man.
I wish I can turn the odds around,
I wish I have been there for you,
But this is your story,
And you have to tell it.
You gave some of us hope,
You've inspired many
To live and live for change.
Continue your walk, loud your talk,
Lion among men.

© Habakkuk Kargbo(Rabbi)