My hatred boils with every attempt to hurt

My fear fills the atmosphere at every attempt to hide my desires

But still,

My courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate me

My love spreads at every attempt to empty my darkness

My dreams reveal themselves at every attempt to bring hope

My words escape my mind with every intent to be heard.

My heart heals itself, with every chance to live.

Like the Nile river that flows through the dry sands of Egypt,
I will soothe your war within.

Like an angel sent on earth,
I will trade your broken wings for mine.

Like a Bouguereau canvas,
I will show you what love is.

Like endless notes played by the mysterious composer,
I will whisper sweet melodies to you.

Like a dog waiting for it's owner,
I will be loyal to you.

Like an IT specialist removing a password that's had 8 failed attempts,
I will decode you.

Like a painting in an art gallery to the aspiring artist,
I will arouse your *              
                                     *
                                   *
                                         *  imagination

Like the humid air awaiting the rain's arrival,
I will wait for you

..for I have not yet met you.

Sometimes I wonder
if the smile I gave you
is long gone
or do you keep it in your pocket and put it on from time to time
in the darkness of the night

I tripped over a shadow today
and it reminded me
that things don't have to be real
to leave you scratched and bruised
and wishing you had paid more attention
to where you were stepping

What became of the land which birthed Nelson Mandela?
What became of the land which displayed unity,
A rainbow nation?
What became of the energy of 2010?
Why is there dissatisfaction?
What became of Steve Biko's consiousness?
Why do we have no confidence?
Why do we have to build high walls?
Why do we fear guns?
What became of 27 April 1994?
What became of my land?
What became of the rich African soil?
What became of my land?
What became of my land?


The land that once nourished patriotic seeds,
Now bears fruits of violence, corruption, sinister deeds.


What became of my land?