TOI TOI

TOI, TOI
(Going Forward, Standing Still)


Ever since the dawn of creation
Africa has been ripped and torn
In all different stages of cremation;
From windswept ashes, countries reborn.

I have been called “Darkest Africa” through a time,
By those who couldn’t read the secrets of my soul;
Or didn’t want to linger and dwell in the sublime,
Interested only in what they could claim and control.
I am also known as “Mama Africa” by my nations,
Like all mothers I can be over protective
Nurturing riches buried under granite foundations.
Cherished treasures blurring perspective.

Africa’s immense panoramic beauty,
Is often overshadowed and clouded,
By incomprehensible cruelty;
Pastoral stillness tranquillity shrouded.

Oh my children, to know your values worth,
You need to understand it in your hearts
All which was given to you in your birth;
Was not meant to make any of you outcasts,
Rather take it to draw closer to each other
Using adversity to forge unity;
Your blood is also the blood of your brother
Together every setback becomes an opportunity

A continent divided by manmade borders,
Splitting ancient tribes and kin
Changes set into place by boarders
Decreeing all the future to live therein.

Change will not come from selected leaders,
Or the hallways and corridors of power
But from gatherings under the acacias and cedars,
Around the kitchen tables and the lunch hour.
From my soil came the start of mankind
From your souls will come beacons of hope
Shining lights for the maligned;
Yes, my children, let your vision be without scope.

Africa’s torrential storms creates sludge,
Seemingly crippling all forms of progress
Where even one step forward becomes a drudge
Yet buried in the rich silt lies the seeds of success.


Word Count: 286
40 lines
Picture Prompt


Author’s Note:
Toi Toi has become associated with strikes in Southern Africa. It is a dance where the knees come up almost thigh-high, done in one spot, similar to marking time. I have used artistic license to use the expression which originated in Zambia, meaning going forward, standing still.