For my sister Irene by Terrance Hibbert A PLACE OF REST Down in the valley, I'm drawn to a place, In sweltering heat that's blurred by a haze, Where the brush is so dense and animals roam free. The sweat runs down my face salty but sweet, As a clearing appears I'm stopped in my place, The mighty Zambezi, I have come to grace. As it gurgles and churns running at pace, A path through this untamed place. With beaches of gold and dappled shade, I sit by its edge and replenish my soul. Out to my left is a calm sheltered bay, Where a heard of hippo wallow away, With the odd mighty grunt and a flick of a tail, Ones mouth agape as if on display. As day draws to night, I sit by my fire, To the dance of the shadows as bush comes to life. The roar of lions and hyena at play, Critters that scamper and keep me at bay, As I lay on my back and look to the sky, A millions stars that bring night back to day. Dawn breaks to the hippos grunts, and bird life is woken and burst into song. The sky is awash with colours so grand, As if heaven has opened and welcomed me in. All through the night and all through the day, My life has gone full circle and shown me the way, For when my last breath is taken from me. This is gods place where I wish to be....