I SURVIVED BUT OTHERS….

I SURVIVED BUT OTHERS….

Suspended animation
Frustrated & agitated
Paralysed & betrayed
Helpless and dehumanised
But

Am still here
I survived
But what happened
To those who remained behind?

They were
Maimed, murdered
And thousands imprisoned
Some lost their mind

Thousands of young men and women
Were massacred
By a repressive military regime

Before their bodies were retrieved
Parents were forced
To pay for the bullets fired

Far more were martyred
Fighting this regime
Given the chance
They could have escaped

They should be remembered
For being martyred
Deserve our respect
For being reselient

May be
I had an easy way out
Came here still survived
Despite
Initial despair endured

Here I am telling my tales
I survived
For there was no other way
I could have remained behind

Is unthinkable
To willingly go into exile
Leaving loved ones behind

Was called stateless
Making me rootless
That was three decades ago
But still can’t let go

Damage
Has already been done
Just because
I asked for asylum
To be called names
Parasite and lazy and more else

To add insult to injury
Despite my
University education
And vast experience
Be discriminated
Considered of no consequence

Not to remain behind
That was my only way out
This bitter experience
Doesn't only pain me
But still disturbs my mind

Not to be
On government hand out
Had to do odd jobs
To make ends meet
To survive

Did not
Come seeking green pastures
But escape persecutions
Am not an immigrant
Did not leave out of choice

Had no choice on the matter
Though bitter
Was forced into exile
Didn't come for glory
But
For,peace, safety & sanity