Introduction

This poem reminds me of a hip-hop rhyme.  It's free, lively, and rhythmic verse actually uplifts your spirit when you read it aloud!  Older children will appreciate this poem. Allow teens to share poems or songs that enhance their spirits.

Rhythms, Harmonies, Ancestors

       (A Spirit Rap)

To be instantly alive, feeling the vibes

Of time's magical rhythms,

A young black man breathing pure air

Beneath heavens endless blue.

Here nature itself is colorful, warm,

But dangerous, like me.

Or a def jam, Souljah, or X-Clan

Walking the land with great ancestor smiles.

Or in close harmony, rowing the Nile, parting the sea,

Seven brothers pulling swiftly.

Hot sun burning, loving strength into our sweaty backs.

A thousand Harambees sing in our tropical minds!

                                                                      Askia M. Toure

Extension