My land of hope and opportunity,
Is filled with unspeakable beauty.
Where life is difficult and often sad,
But full of love and chances to be had.
The world around us dwells on our past.
Believing our peace too good to last.
We forgave the suffering of a thousand years.
We accepted the differences of our peers.
Judged by the world as second rate,
You all have already decided our fate.
But we are stronger than you will allow,
We will be the leaders, we’ll show you how.
For Africa teaches the world new lessons each day,
Follow our lead let us show you the way.
We live each day in this poverty and pain.
Without pointing at the ones most too blame.
This fight is not nearly over yet, this I will admit.
But we are close the flame of hope has been lit.
Author notes
I hope.......
Written July 12th, 2005
A contest entry
- Out of Africa by Lage.
400 points, ended July 24, 2005, 9 entries
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
What did you think
Comments
1 - 15 of 15
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I love this poem for being positive, yet not losing sight of the negative. It is filled with hope for the future - indeed the flame has been lit. You have wonderful insight. Thanks for taking the time and making the effort to enter. (En ja, ek beaam als wat Wildequill te sê gehad het
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Brilliant!
Wonderful Inspirational Piece of writing. Very well done. *standiung ovation* -
Nice to hear!!!
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I always had a soft corner for Africa, perhaps, because some much is similar between India and Africa. Our freedom struggle got its inspiration and impetus from South Africa. Mahatma Gandhi's forays against oppression and foreign rule started there. Nelson Mandela's struggle was inspired by Gandhian ideals of non-violence. So, there has always been a symbiotic relationship. I was also greatly influenced by Uncle Tom's cabin and Roots, two novels that touched me utmost. Africa has a great future. It is an ancient civilization, which withstood many a turbulent period and like, phoenix, it will rise from the ashes of poverty, AIDS etc. I share your belief and optimism.
krishna -
Hey there.... great poem, and I'm not just saying that. I've never really been one to be hopeful about things like this, but for some reason I came across it and decided to read it anyways. Yanno, I really think that after watching Tears Of The Sun last night and reading this, I think I might keep closer tabs on the news (Especially with South Africa).
-Nexx -
Something about Africa draws me to it. The want to help, the landscape, the attitudes and something more. I knew little of the justice system and got a glimpse from the new movie "In our Country". Realizing its a movie but knowing its based on a true story i couldn't believe the ability the Africans had for forgiveness. That is something we could all learn from. Open our hearts to our enemies and the gates of heaven shall be opened to us. Well done, take care and God bless.
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Awsome poem I like the way you put it together and It shows a great wisdom and hope involved great work !
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Dankie vir die lag!! Ek weet maar maskien sal hulle ons leer ken.
Edited on Jul 12, 5:38 p.m. because ''. -
Visualize it, girl - don't hope it..
Die meeste van hierdie poep-alls weet nie eers dat Suid Afrika n land is nie..! Hulle het vriende in Nairobi... en dink dat jy hulle moet seker ken..! Ja, boet...
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political and well wriiten
This is very good! Though I am not as close as you are, I see on the news some of the things going on in Africa. Famine, genocide etc. and I wonder how long it will be until someting is done. Great job bringing attention to things most people in other parts of the world rarely think about. -
It is optimistic. Sounds like you may be laying a little blame toward the end. I think it is good that you want to try to lead. How would you describe South Africa?
Andy -
loved this . its great
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I thought that this was a great write, your words were so positive and really gave hope to the reader. They were strong and powerful emotions telling who ever this is directed at that you will they will not fall because you're stronger then they can see. Your words captivated so many images that really connect with the reader and pull them in. The flow was perfect and the rhymes never seemed forced. I hope to read more from you soon, and wish you the best of luck in the contest. Feel free to check out any of my writings, it would greatly be appreciated. Keep writing hun, -Heather
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I hope you do!! And thanks for the compliment
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Good job!!
Well, I like it. And not just because it's positive and pointing upward and to the future (but that's one heck of a good reason to like it), but more because it's well thought out and moves along with a good flow and meter. And, wrapped up inside the words is a great message that I've heard from you before, but not so cleverly done as done. Good job, Michelle! Some day I think I'd like to visit SA. Maybe!
Paul
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