I searched for you

I searched for you
I searched for you
In the crowded city walkways
that boast of vibrant life
but stronger shoulders
shoved me aside
and left my hungry passions
dangling on a parking meter.


I searched for you
In the vast Savannas
beneath the thorny thickets
Over the pitiless plains of Kapiti
But the glaring sun
blinded my eye
And I could not find you.

I searched for you
In the sandy beaches
whilst the sea slept silently
But you had fled
into the furry of multitudes
beyond the sandy reef
And I could not find you.


I searched for you
Daring the deep Aberdares
that the bear waters clear
But the thick undergrowth
strangled me
and the silent roar
of the dancing leaves
frightened my simple soul.

I searched for you
In the blare of modem loud speakers
Calling worshippers at the hour
And revelers to the bar
I looked under the unshod feet
of pretentious worshippers
kissing the ground in reverence
Still I did not find you.

I searched for you
In the hazy smoke of incense
In the jingle of carols
and the leaven of the Eucharist
Under the darkened veils
of Muslim virgins
Under rich robes of royal rulers
Still I did not find you
I searched for you
Under the dark dreary locks
of the rugged Rastaman
Sang and jumped in tearful joy
to the beat of rough reggae rhythms
faced the lure of liberation lullabies
But there
I did not find you.

Now I do not search any more
In eloquent church sermons
I listen to my heartbeat
And await your knock on my door.
I look into my head
And listen to the sighs of my soul
As I await your second coming.

otienoamisi.