Heaven Touching, Hell Razing

Let the universe hold still for a few moments

And know why the caged bird sings lost in torment.

Let the walls of this mortal earth

Touch heaven and raze hell’s fiery depth.

It’s an hero’s welcome for sons who earned respect

Returning with refined dreams,

Bringing in the sheaves doubtless rejoicing.

Say to those crippled in their souls, Arise!

Wipe the last tear from off your eye.

It’s the restoration of all things.

Equality and his work party have set us free.

Let the sun run its course announcing to every nation:

“The proudest and greatest race revives true redemption.”

Bow to the wind of change pompous trees.

Sing for joy all you Savannah anthills.

Hide your faces in utter shame destroying mountains

For this lil’ ones shall be frightened, never again.

And in this place where we were called slaves,

We’ll bring back the hour and with it glory regained.

Akpan