Happy New Year. Poem by Nyagaka Charles

New Year was here, time for a fresh start,
The eve was jubilant with celebration, yester-night.
Not to be late, I stroll out of my crib for a bite,
With a lot to think about I went out…really out,
Didn’t even realize I was two towns away, no sweat!

“For people who ‘kuku’ about chicken.”, read the sign, I stood staring.
I still waited for their call, the weight my energy was draining,
No pain no gain? The blow was dropped, “We are not coming! ”.
I crossed the street; the lady behind the counter was smiling.
Good sign for a lovely day, I ordered and stood, waiting.

What do I have to thank God for? I wondered.
Her phone rang, upon receiving, she dropped.
But for her screaming, the café went dead quite,
They took her away, her assistant came to aid.
Most chilling New Year, lost appetite and for once, I prayed.

My friends didn’t show up to raise my spirits, but I’ll see them again!
I did not start the year by dying, how can that be pain?
Bad news knows no good time, can’t buy it off with a dime!
I have my life, late in the afternoon now, I went back home,
Took a dive and appreciated, for it is a Happy New Year.