Dianne

“*Africans, Embrace One Another*
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My fellow African,
when you look at another African,
what do you see?
Do you not see the reflection of yourself?
Do you not see someone who was once a victim of the dark past?
Someone who has now emerged as a survivor at last;
just as your forefathers did before the shadows enslaved your kins!
Do you not see the same colour of your skin?
Do you not see the same texture of your hair?
Yes, you see yourself, it's clear.
Now, since you're looking at your reflection,
don't you wish to cover yourself with affection?

Beloved Africans,
you were once the victims of confusion in the past.
But you shouldn't remain in that disillusioned class.
Today you're free and enriched with resources to maintain yourselves.
Let the victim mentality go as a start.
Like the three wise men, embrace your survivor status.
Be wise and be resourceful.

Africans,
you have the permission to celebrate your roots,
your heritage, and the teachings of your books.
Go on and heal your bodies with your traditional herbs.
And teach your children the secrets of your ancestors.
Tell your children that your ancestors were self-sufficient.
Efficient, your ancestors lived well
— with little to nothing.
Yet, they were the happiest.
The merriest.
Embrace the secrets of your traditions,
just like the seas.
You're safe and free.”
― Mitta Xinindlu