ODE: "OH YE COMMUNITY OF MOTHER STRIDA!" BY EMI NI DON BABA

In the realm of words, a visionary did dwell,

A weaver of tales, a whisperer of prose, 

Mother STRIDA she’s called.

She built a community with stories to tell,

Where the ink would flow and imagination rose.

With fervor and passion, she paved the way,

A haven for writers, both young and old.

A refuge for souls seeking words to convey,

A tapestry of dreams, yet to unfold.

But as time spun its intricate thread,

She lost control amidst life's demands.

Excuses of academia, they softly spread,

Like veils of mist across barren lands.

Her commitments grew, a weight on her soul,

As her beloved community began to fray.

Her presence waned, her absence took its toll,

On the writers who yearned for her guiding ray.

Each journey holds rough edges, it's true,

And struggles emerge when focus is lost.

Yet she refused to accept the warnings that grew,

Denying the fading flame at any cost.

A member of the family, a kinship so dear,

Spoke truth to her, in gentle tones.

But she shielded herself from what she'd hear,

Hiding beneath shadows, hiding alone.

Fear clutched her heart, uncertainty's hold,

For the future of the community she had sown.

Afraid of the tale yet to unfold,

Afraid of what awaited, yet unknown.

But oh, dear visionary, do not despair,

For courage lies within, waiting to ignite.

Embrace the struggle, the burden to bear,

And rekindle the fire with all your might.

Listen to those who seek to mend,

For they see the cracks in your creation.

Let their words guide you, be willing to amend,

And restore the strength of your foundation.

The future holds mysteries, both light and shade,

But your passion and vision can light the way.

Release the fear, let it slowly fade,

And watch your community thrive, day by day.

So, gather your pen, embrace the call,

For the stories await, eager to be told.

Rekindle the flame, stand tall, stand tall,

And reclaim the legacy that you once behold.

EMI NI DON BABA

-Nigeria

The voice of this poem praises Rashidat Ajakaye for creating the home for training the writing potential- STRIDA. He also advises that she should sharpen her concentration to the growth of STRIDA, with seeking energetic minds like her.