The Hausa bikeman rode past me without a glance
But his words cut me like a sharp-edged lance
“Where you dey go baba?” he asked with disdain
My heart sank deep, pierced with pain
I searched around, hoping it wasn’t me he meant
But his gaze was fixed on me, unwavering and intent
I’m the only one here, old and frail
The word “baba” a reminder of my age, and life’s travails
My hair, once black as coal, now grey as the sky
Time has flown, and I don’t know why
Thirty years my junior, he calls me “baba”
Does he respect me or is it just a reminder of my labors?
I’m not ready to accept that my life’s work is done
I still have dreams, desires, and goals yet to be won
I may be old, but my spirit still burns bright
Please, dear God, don’t let me go without a fight
I know my time is short, and my body’s weak
But my mind’s still sharp, and my will’s still meek
Guide me, Lord, and give me the strength to strive
To achieve more, to touch more lives
I don’t want to die unfulfilled, with my dreams unmet
Please, dear God, let me achieve what I haven’t yet
Let me leave this world with pride in my heart
And the satisfaction of knowing I played my part.
