Grandpa's Prayer Poem by John Chizoba Vincent

I have awaken to see the sun rise,
Chukwu, I thank you this morning
For I live to hear another cock crow.
Obinigwe, thank you for the sun that rises
Over my soul and over my head,
I have killed no one, I have taken
Nobody' land, and I have not committed adultery,
I have wish no one evil; I have help
Those who are in need with the
Little one my hands could spare.


'Chi Okike' bless me and let me find enough
To fill my stomach and the Kolanut to chew,
Whilst talking to you at this shrine of my forebears.
Bless my daughter and sons, give them enough to feed their families and never allow any evil come near them.
Let not the sun set on their prosperity nor the wind against them.


'Obasi Binigwe' bless the children of my children,
Let your eyes follow them away from evil and
Bring them to good, those who wish others well
Keep them well in your bosom of glory and,
Those who wish others ill; keep them ill for
A person is judged by his thoughts and words.

Chineke, bless our land to prosperity and wisdom,
Let those who lead us, lead according to your directions.
This chalk I draw in your faithfulness
This gin I pour in the name of our ancestors.


Who once served on earth and,
Still serving in the world beyond.
This oil I spread in the name of
My faithful fathers and children
And my children children, bless us
All according to your will, Chukwu Okike.