Stillborn Democracy

Fifteen years ago, we had a dream.
But the spectre of racism still hangs over our country like a pall, darkening the bright future we promised ourselves and our children. These fifteen years have been years of mere words and no action, haunted by the ghosts of the past, and unfulfilled promises. We have seen our nation’s fathers replaced by a new generation of ‘leaders’, men more set on adding to their own fortunes than improving their home and native land. The very ideals this country were founded upon, have been discarded and twisted for personal gain.

Material desire has severed the strongest of bonds. The ties of brotherhood have been broken. Now, one man is set against the other – against his neighbour, family and friends.

Discrimination is rife, fuelled on by hate speech and irrational fears. Men who once were granted sanctuary in dire straits, have turned upon their African brothers, repaying past generosity with wanton, unprovoked attacks. Bigotry, misogyny, greed and fear have overruled our better natures, and have trumped such human qualities as compassion, understanding, and even common decency.

  • ArcadiaTempest

    ArcadiaTempest

    The picture you have painted….sadness me greatly….living so far away it seems somewhat surreal to me…..your verse here brought the reality of your home to me. She has a very good friend in Jordan…keep writing about her…..more will read and listen. X

  • Jordan Busson replied

    Arcadia, your words, yet again, hit home in a way that I cannot describe, but that, nonetheless, moves me deeply. Thank you.

  • Ann  Palframan

    Ann Palframan

    I sooooo agree with your sentiments here, Jordan. The likes of ‘young’ Julius – and others – spring to mind. Cry the beloved country… it’s not easy to maintain a sense of optimism these days, is it?

  • Jordan Busson replied

    Julias Malema definitely springs to mind… Every time he opens his mouth controversy and contradictions pour forth. It isn’t easy to maintain a sense of optimism, but we must. Our dream is to fragile to let it die.

  • Erika .

    Erika .

    WOW. First off the title is _brilliant_men

    I can’t even explain how this is so common throughout the world as well:
    “more set on adding to their own fortunes than improving their home and native land.”

    “The very ideals this country were founded upon, have been discarded and twisted for personal gain.” Strong line…

    This piece truly shows your voice and discontent about your country…this is so powerful.

  • Jordan Busson replied

    It is all too common.
    Thank you for your words and understanding, Erika.

  • Erika .

    Erika .

    I meant brilliant and take off the “men” next to it…. :) I hate it when I don’t type things right.

  • Jordan Busson replied

    No prob :)

  • DanaMS
  • Jordan Busson replied

    I’m honoured!

  • veritasunsaid

    veritasunsaid

    strong emotive language
    VERY fine work
    congrats on the feature

  • Jordan Busson replied

    Thank you! Much appreciated!

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