The Chasm 
 
When the humanity’s words
Beget the Tempter’s lies
I cross the chasm of her beautiful brown skin
Where the words blooming with everlasting truth
 
When the humanity’s deeds
Beget the Tempter’s crimes
I cross the chasm of her beautiful brown skin
Where the deeds blooming with devout worship
 
When the humanity’s riches
Beget the Tempter’s wars
I cross the chasm of her beautiful brown skin
Where the riches blooming with moveless peace
 
When the humanity’s children
Beget the Tempter’s loss
I cross the chasm of her beautiful brown skin
Where the children blooming with Eden’s eternity
 
When the humanity’s love
Beget the Tempter’ lust
I cross the chasm of her beautiful brown skin
Where the love blooming with Divine Light
 
When the humanity’s fear
Beget the Tempter’s victory
I cross the chasm of her beautiful brown skin
Where the fear blooming with selfless martyrs
 
When the humanity’s hearts
Beget the Tempter’s barrenness
I cross the chasm of her beautiful brown skin
Where the hearts blooming with gushing springs
 
 
 
Nesta Mquanaze helps her daughter Nomhlahla take a drink. Nesta, a widow, cares for two daughters, both sick with AIDS, and seven grandchildren. Nesta said, "At my age of 59, it is difficult to be a mother once again, but I try to give them all the love that I have ... If I had one wish in the world it would be that my children would be well and not die so young because I love them and wish that they will live."


© 2004-2002,  Dara Shayda