With the Climb, the Descent (Ani Ukali Sangai Orali)
Each day brings the same toil,
same labor and chore.
Bereft even of grains,
blessed only with this crutch.
The load on my back gets heavier,
and yet I carry it.
And I ask for nothing, Lord, but your watchful eyes.
And, that you give me, with each climb, a descent.
The entire village is erupting in celebrations
Those that dance do so with admirable grace
It isn’t I who flies high on the old wooden swing
But all of its dizziness jousts inside my head
My legs want to climb up
– but, the heavy load pulls them downhill
The drums want a playful beat
– but, the heart thumps its ominous retreat
And, with the climb, the descent
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