Why the World Needs Healing Part II

Uganda’s Lullaby

When you walk the road to Gulu

step lightly and do not falter.

Do not even leave a footprint

lest fickle moon betray you.

When you walk the road to Gulu                                                                      

wrap your arms into the shadows,

reach deep into the stillness

as the night breeze blows above you.

When you walk the road to Gulu

do not cry out for your mother

Lest your falling tears give drink

to those who’ve come to hunt you.

Cheetahs hide in the tall grasses

waiting for the weak ones.

Cheetahs stalk the ones who falter

and their bones lie by the river.

Learn to sleep with one eye open

when the nightmares come to haunt you.

Learn to sleep with one ear open

when the sound of demons call you.

Find your place in Gulu’s doorways

so Death’s hand cannot find you.

Find your place in Gulu’s doorways

let your shadow stand to guard you.

Sleep beyond the word named fear

for the enermy awaits you.

May your prayers rise up to heaven

for the angels bring tomorrow.

Note: Since 1986, 30,000 boys and girls have been abducted to the Lord’s Resistance Army to become soldiers, laborers or sex slaves.  To avoid abduction every night 40,000 chidlren flee their homes to the relative safety of towns like Gulu.