The Other Truth Poem by Francis Kokutse

I have heard all you said,
But, my grandfather told me
a different story.

I see that you have read what
your people said to you.
It was not from any of your kinsmen
But a story that someone has written.

My story was handed down to me
just like how it was handed down to my fathers father.
You may dispute it just like how l do not believe yours
Because the hand can change what the brain has.

I see laughter on your face;
You may doubt me because
I know that my mouth can also change
What l have kept in my brains and
You have no way of knowing what
Is carried in my brain.

Therefore my friend from across the oceans,
We must not fight over who has the truth.
Keep your truth the way it is
And l shall carry mine the way it is
So that we can live in peace.