Peace Makers Of A Rainbow Nation By Avi- Nash Sukuram

Home to sun-kissed waves,

Your amplitude, one of fortitude.

But Mzansi, has your true nature drowned?

For we’ve braved manifestations of your creation. We’ve endured waves of the pandemic

And now, waves of anarchy,

Violent indeed but this too shall be embraced. These constructive and destructive waves, Indistinct from your ocean of consciousness.

The only series of waves we wish to again indulge Are waves of bliss, whence surfboards are out And we wave high-fives, in love and harmony.

Allow me to share a beautiful story...

Day job now secondary,

To protect a prized democracy, Primary.

Neither qualified nor trained,

Who has time for that?

On-the-job learning must do.

Armed or not - doesn’t really matter! Able-bodied will suffice,

For we must protect our community ‘Cos when Kingdom comes,

They shall save our Constitution.

Our heroes served,

Knowing the fruit of sacrifice,

Shan’t be filched.

Truth ignored,

Only to manifest in hungry scions,

Of an unequal society.

As the dullish sun hesitantly disappears, Ashamed, behind the smoke of burning dreams. New opportunities dawn for the hungry,

As threats ascend for the righteous.

My shift ensures

The sight of sun-rise,

Optimistic, I must remain.

Last night’s clothes were stained in red

“Daddy, is this powder?” ask’s the little one. The toxins, I silently murmured.

I must dress warmly,

A mask and vest of parity.

Social distancing is no longer an option.

My rationed dinner,

Coffee deprived of milk.

But thankful for donated bread.

She stares into my eyes and sees the flint

But we must both be strong and brave.

Kids asking questions?

Social media feeding a toxic diet.

At this stage, no news is better than fake news. She can only provide solace thro’ her calmness, This is unchartered waters, for us all.

My check-point,

The bridge tonight.

Freshly chopped trees,

The only available fire fuel

For the night that pierces flesh and sinew. The team of five rapidly doubles, Multiplies, and expands.

You’d be mistaken if ‘twas

a Friday night bonfire

But thoughts are swiftly sobered by noise – AK-47, M16A2, Uzi...!!!

My ears, now well-tuned.

“Can I get back-up at Red 5!”

“Twelve armed bravos in a white combi” “Back-up needed!”

Hello, now a hotline.

Even Superman couldn’t save us.

Our strength, a product of numbers. Separateness creates fear,

Togetherness, in diversity, creates unity. Youngsters to the retired,

All risking their lives,

Protecting what is rightfully theirs.

Dusk signals the turn of our spouses,

To hold down the fort whilst our soul’s rest. But this light also personifies;

Unity, Courage, Resilience, Unselfishness, and Selflessness.