She says come in,
Feel at home
The umbilical cord has called
She says time has dried her tears
I look at her, my heart stone-heavy with guilt
She smiles and thank God
Prayer kept her unbroken
Grounded.
Grab a sandwich and be still
You are at home now and happy
Smell the brown onion rings
Feel the cold tomato
The flat-leaf parsley
The lettuce leaves and marmalade
Splash the mayonnaise
Tell your palate, all is well
Shake the Tabasco sauce
Revive the beat of the elapsed drum
Shake the salt bottle
Feed your soul and rest.
Kiss the wife and children,
Pick up the skinny little one
Pinch her porridge cheeks
Smell her chocolate diapers.
Get set
Be clutch-ready
Your family is your engine
Enjoy the engine power
Smell the petrol
Release the pedal
Lay the placemat on the table.
Pray.
Eat.
Sandile Ngidi (20th century) South Africa
Source: The Punch Magazine
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