Have you ever had anyone write anything Just For You?
The following three poems are selected from over 100 tribute poems that I wrote and/or performed for friends and special events between 1992 and 2012. The Tribute Poem is a genre with African roots, where special verses, or elaborate narratives are written for people ranging from basket weavers to brides or business leaders.
JUST FOR YOU- the poem that launched a book
Have you ever had anyone do anything just for you?
I mean,
Just for you?
Have you ever had anyone write anything just for you?
I mean,
Just for you?
Well!
This poem is ….just for you.
It is for you with cheer for your feelings to be held dear.
It is for you with hope for your dreams to prosper and float.
This poem is… just for you.
It is for your encouragement as you pound the pavement.
It is for your courage as you release fear and turn a new page.
This poem is … just for you.
It is for you with hugs and smiles right here
or across the miles.
It is for you with wishes and more
as you open that new door.
This poem is … just for you.
It is for your peace as you take in all life has to teach.
It is for your wealth as you bask in excellent health.
This poem is…just for you.
It is for you with love that is blessed from above.
It is for you with bliss that never ever goes amiss.
This poem is…just for you.
FRIENDSHIP TOOK ON A NEW NAME
Friendship took on a new name today
You came into the room
You began moving with purpose, moving with grace
Nothing is quite the same in our place
Friendship grew to new heights the day
You stood on the line
Came out of your comfort zone
Helped remove the stones along the way
Friendship adds lace to life’s seams every day
That your love pours water for the thirsty,
Sews, pastes, cuts, binds and delivers limited resources
Encourages the hesitant and troubled to pray
Friendship, your friendship has made us complete
Like cobbler and fruitcake, it’s heartwarming sweet
Given freely, it has helped – gosh – a plenty
To draw others near to serve and cheer many
Friendship, your friendship has helped us stand on the line
To endure the high and low tides of Mother Time
JAZZY POMP
Girrrll, did you hear that?
That’s a mean keyboard funk line in Pomp and Circumstance
Yeah, Joe put a sweet downbeat in the upright processional
Pomp and Circumstance celebrated with culture
You know our celebration would not be complete
Without a little touch of cultural class
It was there, subtle - not overt
Fingers kissing treasured chords
Dancing across the traditional keyboard
Thank you for the joy you jammed into this special day
You wove wonder with wisdom
In your own inimitable way
Gave the waves of caps and gowns
Electrifying energy
In the heat of the day
