Gather Around

The sweet aromatic scent of traditional beef stew fills the room

Gazing out my bedroom window

A cool breeze touches the warmth of my face

The sky is a deep cloudless blue

Rhythmic African music plays outside

As the musical beat intensifies

Family gather and dance

Joy and excitement seep into the neighbouring streets

The flames settle against the braii stand

Aunties coat a batch of meat with chilli and curry sauce

Ready to sizzle on the grill

Children scream and dash around the garden

As another game of tag commences

Shortly followed by the call of chikafu chagadzirira

Words that connect us all

Entering the backyard space

I feel the warmth and embrace

Triggering fond memories by the campfire

Of storytelling in the motherland, Zimbabwe

Food is dispersed amongst all who gather

Each bite, a reminiscent thought of Gogo’s delicious cooking

One that transpires to all who gather

Realising that home exists when we gather together

Taking the time taken out of our hectic lives

To be present for one another

In the good and bad times

That we are stronger together always

That’s where home truly exists.