Listen

I am Africa.

Dust and harsh sun.

Strong shoulders from carrying a heavy yoke.

I am wild.

I am resilient.

I am fire and starlight.

Listen.

My heartbeat is a drum.

Listen.

My voice is not just one.

I am dark.

Deep with history, scarred and worn.

Leathered by the sun, callused by abuse.

Oh, but I am lovely.

Come, listen.

I am truth.

I am perseverance.

I am simplicity.

I am not as I may seem.

I am not what the world perceives.

Listen as I stir -

as I awaken.