Glee greetings, dear readers. I hope this musing finds you well and happy. In continuation of the November Joy Series , I want to share with you a poem that I wrote in 2014. It is titled “We Need Us” and it is about the importance of interdependence and mutual support in life, which is an essential ingredient for happy living.
The poem is inspired by the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which means “I am because we are”. Ubuntu emphasizes the idea that we are all connected and that we can only thrive when we help each other. As Desmond Tutu, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, said:
“Ubuntu speaks particularly about the fact that you can’t exist as a human being in isolation. It speaks about our interconnectedness. You can’t be human all by yourself, and when you have this quality – Ubuntu – you are known for your generosity.”
– Desmond Tutu
The poem uses four metaphors to illustrate the concept of Ubuntu: the train, the piano, the sun and the rain, and the baby and the mother. Each metaphor shows how two different things need each other to function well and create something beautiful. The poem also ends with a biblical reference to Adam and Eve, who were created to be companions and helpers for each other.
The poem is written in a simple and rhythmic language, with a rhyme scheme of AABB. It has four stanzas, each with four lines. The poem is meant to be easy to read and understand, but also to convey a deep and powerful message.
I hope you enjoy reading the poem and that it inspires you to appreciate the people in your life who support you and who need your support. Remember, we need us.
Here is the poem:
We Need Us
Like the two tracks
that lead the wheels of a train,
you need me and I need you.
Together we move the train.
Like the white and black keys
that produce sweet symphonies,
you need me and I need you
to make life a melody.
Like the sun dries things
and the rain waters trees,
you need me to dry your tears,
I need you to water my dreams.
Like a baby needs the mother
Like the plants need the Farmer
Like Adam needs a helpmeet,
I need you and you need me.
We Need Us Explained
Within the lines of the poem, “We Need Us”, there lies a gentle reminder of the interconnectedness we share as individuals. The analogy of two tracks steering the wheels of a train emphasizes the necessity of mutual reliance. Just as the train requires both tracks to move forward, so do we rely on each other to progress in life. (Continue reading after ad)
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The imagery of piano keys, combining to create beautiful melodies, reflects the collaborative essence of life. Each individual plays a crucial role, much like the keys working in harmony to produce music. It’s a reminder that our unity can create symphonies of joy and purpose.
Nature’s elements, the sun and rain, are likened to the mutual support we offer one another. Just as the sun dries and the rain nourishes, we possess the ability to comfort and support each other in times of need.
Moreover, the poem draws parallels to fundamental dependencies: the baby and the mother, the plants and the farmer, Adam and a helpmeet. These comparisons underline the inherent interdependence ingrained in human existence, reinforcing the idea that we are fundamentally linked, needing one another to thrive.
In essence, “We Need Us” beautifully encapsulates the essence of human connection, underscoring the importance of unity, support, and reliance on each other. It’s a gentle call to acknowledge and cherish the bonds that tie us together in this journey of life.
May this poem serve as a poignant reminder of the strength found in our interconnectedness and the beauty that emerges when we recognize and honor our mutual dependence.
Thank you for reading this article. Please feel free to share your thoughts and feedback with me. Until next time, stay safe and stay connected!
With ❤️
Jaachị Anyatọnwụ
