To My Father's Land I Will Return
by Mejame Ejede Charley

I left my father's house
For adventurous pursuits in the world
I was bored at home, wanting to be free
The novelty of the situation enchanted me

Yet things are beginning to be more and more difficult
I am a foreigner in a strange land
People distrust me, I am refused work
I am suffering real privations
I am hungry, thirsty and cold
I have nowhere to live

I am now longing to be back in my father's house
For there I would have everything I need
There I am loved by my father, mother and family
Let alone the neighbours who know me

I am now wise, humble, ill, sorrowful
Dressed in filthy rags
I have now learned to my cost
That the world is ruled
By neither love nor pity

When I arrive at my father's doorstep
I know my father will greet me with open arms
When I arrive my father's house
I will never be bent on doing as I please
I will never leave that secret place
Where I am under his protection
I have suffered greatly
I have understood
Thus I want nothing more than
To dwell in his peace and light.

 

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