Here I am
dread locked into slavery
with chains of brutality
binding me from my dreams

When I cry
piercing tears of endless rivers
it never got to the sea
nor even honoured with an handkerchief

Though I tried
to accept the fate I fell in
and to please my masters through diligent service
but all I got was a high purchasing bid

And if I am not granted freedom
in my days of scorn
then my children will go on
for I wish them better days to come

©Bernard Otumun, April 2003