Reflection

“He is a tribalist. He cannot lead!” I hear you cry.

But yet, you refuse to put your tribal differences aside.

When you ask the simple question: “What is your name?”

You secretly want to know if our tribes are the same.

And when you learn we both come from a different place,

it’s so clear to see the disappointment on your face.

You then announce to the world we are one family,

yet behind closed doors, that’s a far cry from reality.

So, who is the tribalist? The man you claim cannot lead?

Or you, the person who pretends there’s unity.

“He is corrupt and full of greed!” I hear you say.

A shame you didn’t think that way the other day.

When he gave you that job above those more qualified,

you accepted it, filled with glee and pride.

He then gives you money, for no reason at all.

“For the good work you’ve done,” he says – work you can’t recall.

But yet again, you take the bait and soon come to learn

that for now, money and titles are your only concerns.

So, who is corrupt? The man you claim is full of greed?

Or you, the person who succumbs to bribery?

Now here we are approaching another presidential election,

four years since the people last made their selection.

You stand on stage, a hopeful candidate,

promising, as always, to make this nation great.

But how can you do that when in your life you planted those seeds

of tribalism, corruption, mediocrity, and greed?

And so, the country’s chain of bad leaders remains unbroken,

until, amongst the people, the truth is finally spoken.

That where there’s a lack of integrity and humility,

you’ll find self-entitlement and a lack of accountability.

It’s ironic we sometimes fail to see ‘Our leaders’ reflections look just like you and me.