I was once
a bamboo tree,
bending over for
everyone to climb,
dancing in the
wind by the
moonlight.
Listening to the
flute and the
songs of the birds.
I am the
feed of the
animals,
I took in
their farts smelling
all around me.
Now am taller
and stronger.
I was once
a young iroko tree,
standing tall with
dignity and pride.
I am matured,
and become like an
umbrella for shade.
My presence alludes
strength.
But now i am
the sacred dwarf iroko,
the mysterious
anunuebe tree of
which no one
or any living thing
is allowed to
come near or
approach or fly over
without serious
consequences.
No one can
climb me,
it is not allowed.
The once loved
is now the abhorred,
revered and respected.
I'm no longer
bending over
for anyone and
will not allow
anyone to climb
all over me.
You must approach
with respect to
be allowed entrance.
This is my
natural stance.
©2019,Emeka Mokeme. All Rights Reserved.