The Rainbow Nation

Today I woke up in a place where rivers run wild
And grasses grow tall
I woke up in a place where you are free to be who you want to be
Today I woke up in a place where all people are equal
Regardless of race, religion or creed.

I woke up in a place rich with history.
A place that thrived long before the imperialist powers arrived.

Today I woke up in a place where everyone has equal rights,
A place where these rights can be exercised.

I woke up in a place where the people have the power
And can vote for the leader of their choice.

Today I woke up in a place where children play and have no worries
A place where future generations will never forget the bloodshed
By the people of this nation.

Today I woke up in a place that condemns servitude,
A place where the mountains grow high and seas stretch wide.

Today I woke up in a place where Sarah Baartman once walked
And sat under the baobab tree,
I woke up in a place filled with diversity
A place where people understand that there are different cultures
But accept those differences
Today I woke up in South Africa