Still Deep Waters

The still waters in the smile behind the eyes run deep
As in ripples her story of life before death rises
And for a brief moment the fountain of youth flows over
And we see a picture of Africa
Not the negative portrait of dying
But an image of real hope rising

Standing alone his heart burns with fire and passion
In his fingers his families life-blood and health is held
Duty driven to share the knowledge that will feed others
And we see a picture of Africa
Not the negative stereotype starving
But an image of real hope rising

We painted a barren landscape
Masterpiece of our constant greed
Colonized and consumed
Framed in climate confusion
Debt-dependent and enslaved
Hung out to dry by unfair trade

He works the well drawing deep clean water with pride and joy
The well being a key to unlock his young life’s future
Any given time taken and enjoyed as fam’ly
And we see a picture of Africa
Not the negative snapshot of crying
But an image of real hope rising

© David Hardman 2008