Oche Eche Eje

THE LOST OCH' When they crossed the River Benue, the villagers paused and watched. One voice rose first, “Ch’ Idoma!” Then the crowd answered, “Och’ Idoma!” The valley echoed their reverence. But he was confused. He said: My heart only thinks so I may survive. My feet only walk because hunger pushes them. My mind only dreams because the stomach must be filled. I am no king —only a runaway, a prisoner of my father’s land. Then the old maiden, untouched and timeless, stepped forward. Her voice was slow, ancient, certain: The River has washed our eyes. We no longer see flesh, we see lineage. You are not wandering, you are returning. Our fathers are your fathers. These lands are your inheritance. We shall give you the finest soil, for one of our daughters has already seen your spirit. And the people rejoiced. — Legend Chris