Well, for a while, I have gotten to be part of a bi-weekly online event called “The Table Online” hosted by a friend. A place where we shared our stories and how we were grappling with life amidst Covid-19.
The concept of the table appeals to me because it is an invitation, a place to see and hear others out, and a place for you to be seen and heard.
Even more appealing to me is that the table gives you a chance to reach mutual agreement.
So, it is in the light of this that I always look at injustices in the world. And even more importantly, I find the concept of getting a place at the table to be even more fascinating. Who determines who gets to sit at the table?
This is what my poem is about – a place at the table.
Ever given it a thought?
Or in your mind occurred not?
That sometimes,
The problem is with the representation at the table.
The representation at the table,
Which you and I so gladly put via the ballot,
And spend time in verbal protest,
Via the power of the all mighty tweet.
The power of the all mighty tweet,
Well, from time to time, it’s been the gun’s butt,
But we still bear the brunt,
Of our representation at the table.
Yes, the representation at the table,
Who determines who is able?
What if it’s about being able,
To be able to present yourself as able and stable?
Not able and stable,
To stash as much as you are able,
But serve until your subjects are stable,
And on their own two feet stand stable?
On their own feet stand stable,
Is what a leader with heart is capable,
And better still, do you think you and I are able,
To get a place at the table?
To get a place at the table,
Will sometimes mean telling ourselves that we are able,
Able and capable,
Then taking the steps to be able.
Taking the steps to be able,
To be the light until others are able.
It could be getting certifications,
Then walking to the table.
Walking to the table,
To make mutual benefits able,
The light of day enable,
Then the darkness of stashing and exploitation will leave.
Yes, let the darkness of stashing and exploitation leave, not live.
Image courtesy:
ofsol 