Decades have passed since you last visited.

In this peaceful entity, I nurse my aching heart. 

Most days at noon, I gather my silver tears,

Hoping to draw gazing stars with them. 

And on weekends, I sail on shore, searching for healing and rest. 

Worlds apart, whispers of home still echo in my ears,

But the gravedigger speaks of the endless pain and chaos 

our home can’t escape. I know that Mum still drinks, 

And Dad is an upgraded whoremonger. 

And you, Sista, I see you swinging on the cinnamon tree,

Lost in the clouds, hoping for redemption.

But Sista! In this darkened grave, I find my peace.

The chaos from home no longer haunts my vision.

So Sista, keep off my resting place.

Spare me your sorrows. Your moans of remorse 

disturb my rest. Allow me, Sista,

to bask in peace, without a distorted face. 

Ewurama Tawiah Welbeck is a Ghanaian Creative writer and English Language teacher who uses poetry and prose to explore beauty, longing, loss, despair and familial bond. She finds existential meaning through amusement, tragedy, and strength. A fellow of SprinNG Writing Fellowship, one of her works appears in Writer’s Space Africa.