What the world needs

by Chevvy, posted in Poetry

No firing of cannons

No twenty one gun salute

No swearing in an oath of office

These are but trivial things

In the presence of such as you

Who affirmed the noble dignity

The priceless humanity of one and all

No pomp and ceremony

No fighter jets and planes

No lines of uniformed parades

For a foot soldier who marched

In rhythm with the heartbeat of his soul

Hearing the cries of those he served–

To turn limestone into a better world

No pursuit of golden trinkets

No excesses of material things

No labels and ornate insignia

Instead you built a library

Replete with threaded qualities

That turned mice to men and women

With humility and kindness shared

Yes, it is your brand of leadership

Yes, it is your unwavering selflessness

Yes, it is in all of us to search and find

That which offers gifts to all mankind

32 thoughts on “What the world needs”

    1. This is the loveliest compliment ever. Thank you Sir. But I have Mr Kathrada to thank for the inspiration to this poem. He was buried today and was of the ilk of Mandela and Ghandi. Still, I humbly receive your compliment. 😀

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    1. Thank you Ameena. Sadly, we are not producing these kind of leaders the world over. I think too many forget that they are meant to serve at the pleasure of their people – all their people 😀

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    1. Perhaps we have to go back to defining the word love as it relates to humanity. The person I am honoring in this poem epitomised love for his fellow man/woman in a way that many of us cannot comprehend. Yesterday was an amazing day for us in our country.

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  9. Wonderful words, Chev! When I read your history, I’m as amazed about some of Mr Mandela’s companions, as I am of him. And as an Indian, I do derive some pride as well. Pity, the tallest world leaders are falling with no one of remotely the same stature on the horizon… 😦

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    1. They were indeed a unique breed of leaders which I’m not sure we’ll see again. But I have hope that there is enough good among us who are standing in the shadows that with the appropriate time and place, will rise to the occasion. Even I have to heed the call😀 Please do share the pride!

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  12. A beautiful tribute to a person whose passion for humanity is an example for many. May that passion come forth from more people, now and forevermore.

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    1. Thank you Tracy. I think he has led us all to do some serious soul searching and has re-awakened the activist in me. But for this moment – I’m releasing the artist in me. Hope you’ll enjoy it.😀

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