It is only the worst of hands
Which push a feeder into the abyss of death
Wanting the best of praises with bands
In a celebration so far from birth
You sure will live long!
II
I can imagine
I can imagine the horror of feeling like one
…who has outlived her worldly welcome
I can imagine
I can imagine the feeling of seeing your dirges
…as a living being
I can imagine
I can only imagine thoughts of being killed
…over and over and over again
But know names with great honey
…forever to be fed on
…last in mouths of even the mischievous
You sure will live long!
III
For they give you life, when they mention death!
They give you breath, when they call your death!
They give you strength, when they pour their filthy minds!
They give you protection, with their abominable tongues!
You sure will live long!
IV
Longer than those who want to see you under!
Longer than those who want to know you’ve gone yonder!
Longer than the best of their lot –
Ingrates who only feast on death
…rather than long life
V
May Odomankomah’s hands protect you!
May Otwereduampong’s umbrella shield you!
May Onyankropong’s Abɔfoɔ guard you
As you walk through the curses of the accursed
To the glory of your blessings
Live long for us!
Live long for Mother Ghana!
Live long for the world!
Till your soul fulfills its purpose to its brim
Amoafowaa Sefa Cecilia © September 14, 2021
Mum Cee 