MOTHER'S KNEE BY ABDUL WAHAB LAWAL

Photo Credit: James Russell Lowell

I learnt at mother's knee
To love and honour a woman
Like I value the air I breathe
So that I can live with ease and bliss.


I learnt at mother's knee
Not to eye someone else's things
So I can feel content with what I have,
For every man is favoured.

I learnt at mother's knee
That greatness lies at home
So I can fulfill my responsibilities with joy,
For a responsible man is blessed.


I learnt at mother's knee
To believe in my self-worth
As no man knows me like I do
And I am the best judge of myself.


I learnt at mother's knee
To serve humanity
As the greatest of all services
Is that which is done for humanity.


I learnt at mother's knee
To be teachable
For every man is flawed
But wise is he that knows and learns.


I learnt at mother's knee
To laugh at my sorrows
As with time
They'd glide.


I learnt at mother's knee
To rid myself of pride
As a proud man is dumb and blind

Blinded by foolishness and vanity.


I learnt at mother's knee
That divinity transcends man,
And effort without faith is null
Like a person chasing the wind.


I learnt at mother's knee
That life is fleeting
So I bask like a traveler
Leaving and living.