AKWAABA

I dream a dream
in which I dream
of peace and happiness,
chatter and laughter.
Of a time of joy
where greetings are hugs
and smiles are our currency.
Where strangers are friends
and friends family.
But I awake
to the echo of silence
and memories of grandeur.
I say AKWAABA
Welcome I say
Welcome to my jungle
where pain is your pay
and happiness a dream,
where teeth are ground
to soothe the ill
and screams abound
like the air we breath.
Where night is day
and day a mirage,
tears quench the thirst
and sleep tames hunger
Welcome to my jungle
Welcome to my home
Welcome to Africa.