I Understand And Don't Understand Poem by Sayeed Abubakar

I do not understand beautiful and ugly;
I only understand woman, woman's lotus like mind
And her two hands wet with peace.

I do not understand forbidden;
I only understand rice, one plate steamy rice
As bright as pearls.

I do not understand socialism, democracy or capitalism;
I only understand my motherland, her holy flag,
Her independence as red as blood
And her increasing peace and enrichment gradually.

Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist-
I understand none; Only I understand
Man, man's happiness, sorrow, love,
Smile, song, austere endeavor and perfection.