Imprinted

Memories of Mama

Once a day, I unlock my Pandora’s box,

Letting memories seep through its fragile cracks.

I shed a tear, perhaps two,

For moments I once deemed unbearable.

Her pitiful remarks about my empty arms,

No husband to hold me, nor children to be held by me.

Her prayer bells at dawn,

Ringing loud with unnecessary theatrics.

I find myself longing for her force-fed Jollof beans,

The unrelenting smell of locust beans.

Annoyances turned treasures,

Now etched at the centre of my heart.

Today, I wonder what might have been,

But my heart swells with gratitude for what is.

One day, when our paths cross beyond this realm,

I will call you “Mama” one last time.

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