FOR US

For us to gain freedom from ignorance
We mortgaged our houses to pay bills
That our young ones may read and write
And learn the ways of the west

It was a purpose worth dying for
That our offspring will be liberated
From burden of heavy taxation
So we starved to make ends meet

For us to realize our common goals
We made sacrifices, not to the ancient gods
But toiled like slaves to the imperial masters
That was the only way we had to go

We forged together like one family
Though different in tribes and tongues
In brotherhood we all stood firm
To defend our native and mother land

For us, it was nothing in all respect
Whose ox was gorged nobody cared
As long as we get to the promise land
We laughed in pains and sang joyfully

Once we got our political independence
We forgot what brought us together
Lies and insincerity set in amongst us
As we live in self deceit all along

For us, the songs have changed
And our laughter gone with the wind
The mansions of our former masters
Housed those who slept while we toiled

We look back at the pains we bore
And regret we never took the oath
Our brothers have changed overnight
They wear the oppressor’s masks now