passcode: fathers

You see Son, I watched you all along as you carried your heart on your back

So when you climbed that hill and parted those forestry nights

Your fears could not reach your proud chest

I watched you conquer that hill

and instead of falling, you deepened the creative footprints of resilience, and won

And alas, dear Son!

You strive now only to outdo yourself!

For at any given moment

You are your best self

Whatever you are building, you will inhabit it

Whatever you are planting, you will reap its fruits

I pray that you will not be wasted in a strange land

And that you will rejoice over your bountiful harvests

-Son of My Shore: Mama Afrika’s Prayer to Black Men is Malena Amusa’s first published book