Leaving Africa

Let the desert cry her beauty in the night, to be soothed by arrayed star light.

Can you hear the awakening sounds, that set the heart's rhythm abound?

The daughter of the day has closed her eyes, oh what she shall miss of nature's sight.

The music is tuned to dance, I beg before you rest hear her elegant prance.

She rustles the sand with her feet, and smoothly twirls to the snake's beat.

The air is howled forth by her hand. Hear her: she is asking you to love her land.

Not solely the desert, but her cousins, to keep your awe alert.

From the trees to the waters, from the skies to the mountains have grasped your soul, entangled in the romance of fearless control.

Though here you gladly abided, barefoot in her soul unchided.

Your feet have memorized her beat, calloused from the running in the beautiful heat.

Your hands know the tree’s bark, following their path for her spark.

Gently sway, and let your tears find their way.

For one last breath take an embrace, to remember her joy and grace.

Your heart declares, "Father, you want me to leave here?" in soul-full prayer.

Fall in love once more, for in your Father is there is much, much to live for.

You will miss seeing the sun stare, and knowing the people for whom you care.

You will miss this graceful, musical beat, and the mzaa on the street.

You will miss the mysterious rain, how it sounds on tin roofs, and the sound of the old traveling train.

But come dear child, I will help you raise your hand, and to say farewell to this beckoning land.

Indeed your heart will keep this place magical, but in His love He has said, "It is time to leave Africa.”