Distant Memories

Distant Memories

From across the great Zambezi they came. A Bantu speaking people both tall and proud, skilled in the arts of iron mining and farming. From across the river they came into the great plateau, moving steadily through the bush and forests like wide spread fingers of a darkened hand, then finally to the white open sands of the vast Indian Ocean.

A cruel and unforgiving land that teemed with creatures both big and small. The diamond-glitter of ruffled feathers that meets the dawn with wild and agog chatter. The distant chant of the white headed fish eagle as it circled high above in the African sky, and the mighty roar of the golden beast that ruled the land with its ivory teeth. Yet, a land kind and loving like a mother with a child clutched tightly to her breast.

When the midday comes and the sun speaks high a stillness falls over the land. A time of day when the cool breeze drops and temperatures soar to forty or more. A dry burning heat that scorches the throat and stings the eyes.

A kind loving people so noble and proud, living alone off the soil of the land. Taking nothing more than a ration of meal and an occasional beast, while giving thanks for it all. But from times long ago, from the distance past, they dreaded the sight of the white canvas sail. First from the Chinese with his long black hair, and then came the King from mighty Israel. His golden crown and Ivory throne were taken from deep with in the heart of their land.

Next were the Arab’s with their whips and blades, binding their feet with shackles and chains. Dragged them kicking and shouting to a far distant land left only with the memory of their deep golden sand. Gone was the thrill of the sudden icy-droplets as they hurtle down from the darkened sky, chilling the skin and drenching the ground - then suddenly again the heat of the day as the bruised and battered clouds pass quickly away.

The Portuguese, in their day, stole the land and offered them up as cheap labor to Boer, working their mines, and laying the steel gauges that carry their trains.

To you who are now in control of this land be wise like your Kings who lived long ago. Be good to your people and treasure their needs, and be glad that now even the Russians have gone with their empty promises and over sized corn.

Portuguese East Africa
“Mozambique”
One of the poorest countries in Africa

--------0---------
1000-BC / 1900AD