Tears instead of togetherness
Mission to help turned to helplessness
All in one second by sleep of the driver

Waking abruptly in the night
First thought- no worries, we’ll be alright..
Second thought- brother, why don’t you answer?

People in panik stream to the rear
Can’t they see that you’re lying here?!
Stuck, crushed and bleeding but still alive!

Touching your pure flesh and pulling your hair
Head and limbs dangling, you’re grasping for air!
Finally resting on African soil

Touched by an angel in moments of fear
Whispering ‘mungo iko’ in my ear
In the midst of death, blood and destruction

Painful to see that the eyes that I know
Now seem so blank and have lost their glow
Looking around like a newborn baby

What was the last word he said to me?
Why am I healthy but why isn’t he?
Help me to see the bigger picture!

Watching the sunrise with tears in my eyes
Thinking that nobody hears my cries
But then the same morning you show recognition!

Throughout this time of my fear and despair
Old and new friends show that they really care
I might be alone but I’m never lonely!

Strangers say ‘hope you are fine’ in the street,
Bring me ugali and make sure I eat
Never experienced such caring spirits

I learn to say ‘thank you’ instead of ‘why me’
See positive signs, small as they might be
- Life is too precious to take for granted

Brothers and sisters from everywhere
Showing me your support and your care
You helped me through and I’ll never forget.