Nma

Dear Nma,

Vegetables give blood.

So chop them against the wooden board.

Spread them over your food and chew.

When you doubt God, remember the chilly wind

the cold nights.

Remember the nostalgia it brings.

recall miracles of years ago.

Do you still wear the crucifix?

It repels demons.

Do not forget.

Do not forget your country.

Carry its burning villages in your eyes.

your lover will ask softly “what are those lights behind your eyes?”

look away so you don’t burn him or torch his skin

Carry the burning villages in your eyes

Trace its maps on the body of your lover.

Torched churches, red soils.

Borno & Jos will never heal.

there’s a lot time may not erase.

You took me on your shoulders that night.

You took me up forever.

Good night.