Night of Karamu

It was the night before Karamu and all was bright1

every one was preparing for a fun filled night2

reeds and mats all set in place3

to hold all the food and guests coming to the place4

brothers and sisters prance with kenti wrapped 'round hair5

hoping for the honor to be named "most creative heir'6

mamas and babas all dressed in their garb7

getting ready to welcome the fruits of a bard8

When the drummers begin the opening call9

a jolly asks "Silence to all"10

Then stews, and drink and lots of cake11

was neatly put on all the plates12

And the eating oh eating that began to take place13

so full was everyone for every dish was tast'd14

Then a jolly rose and called for quiet once more15

exciting the guest for whats in store16

ndugus rolled djembes and dudu bas, ashikos galore17

congos, slit stick, and shakers made of gourds18

then the dancers danced in high flying ways19

such brightly colored cloths you'd swear they were flames20

The laughing and joy arose from the crowd21

even Mama Eurlie was dancing so proud22

When all were tired and breathing hard23

the little children brought out the Kinara24

each little one in the bass set a candle25

three reds three greens, one black into the mantle26

Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujaama, Nia, Kuumba, Imani27

Are the order of the days that soon would be coming28

The principles were recited each fully and reverently29

From old to young they all said them loudly30

As each verse was completed full31

another candle added to the glow32

until they basked in the light of the stage33

where seven small flames reminded them of why they came34

The seven just "Harambe!"s end the scene35

and all went home to be with their close family36

but the jacabi were listening and blessed them that night37

for honoring our ancestors with each burning light