African Child

(Ekpeyong Patricia)

I’m an African child

Black to the bone

Well taught at home

Wise, with the idioms of my elders

Tell me how can I fail or fall by the way side

I’m an African child

Of a warrior, my Father

And of a strong woman, my Mother

How can I fail?

For my voice is rugged like a lock and must be heard by all

I’m an African child

Of modern days madness

And technologically nude

Never again, will I let my pride down

Never again, will I let the sharks of fear swallow me

I’m an African child

A proud one, love me like a child

Even when I’m old

For I will love you too

(Ofem Ubi)

I’m an African child

Made from the ashes of sunlight

Meant to glow like the night star

The branch of a rooted tree

I’m an African child

My pride sleeps safely in the comfort of my scalp

Waiting to be heard at the right time

Watch out, I’m one pure gold you should mine

I’m an African child

And though sometimes I don’t act like one

Though sometimes I put my heritage on the back banner

My culture showcases itself without prior order

I’m an African child

A core ingredient of nature

More than what the media tells you

Much more than what I term myself