I remember how my mother used to
Sew together stories
Like Mennonites sew together quilts
Yezu azali awa.
Jesus Christ is present here.

I remember how my father used to
Kiss my forehead
And crawl into my bed with me when my mother left
Yezu azali awa.
Jesus Christ is present here.

Mama used to weave intricate stories
Of Africa.
Crystal blue rivers, sparkling as they move downstream,
Lush green forests,
And a sky blue room made just for me.
Vivacious voices vibrating off the thin church walls.
Yezu azali awa.
Jesus Christ is present here.

Daddy used to destroy these stories
Of Africa.
No more freedom, embrace your chains,
Love me,
Hate your body and your selfish self.
You are mine and will always be a part of me.
Yezu azali awa.
Jesus Christ is present here.

I have freedom now,
No more chains,
I am no longer forced to love those
Who have not yet learned to love themselves.
But the memories are ingrained in my mind
And they will forever be a part of me.
Yezu azali awa.
Jesus Christ is present here.