If... Poem by Sammy Omotese

If we exfoliate not our skin, but the first layer of our mind set
If we abort not pregnancies, but the throngs of insensitivity towards one another
If we learn not just algebra in school, but that we truly are one and the same
If we proceed from subjectivity to creativity
If we embrace unity in diversity and celebrate our oneness
If we fan the blaze of love and trust in our places of worship
If we sing not just lullaby but loving kindness to our children before they sleep at night
If we celebrate loveliness and togetherness in our multiple tongues
Then our children will grow not in fear, but in anticipation of peace
Then our world will be clothed in a garment of wholesomeness and grace
Then our future will be serenaded by echoes of serenity
Wars and famine will be condemned to oblivion
Poverty will meet its waterloo
And the world will be a haven of affection and laughter.

14/01/14