DIDACTIC: TRUTH OR TRADITION? BY IKECHUKWU FRANK

A thousand voices filled the halls, declaring, “This is right,”

Ancient customs dressed in robes appeared so pure and bright;

Yet truth stood quietly waiting where God's light had always shone,

For crowds may walk together still, and yet be walking wrong.

Tradition builds familiar roads where generations tread,

But age alone cannot transform a falsehood into truth instead;

The loudest cheers, the oldest ways, the most respected name,

Cannot replace the searching heart that tests each sacred claim.

Truth fears no question, needs no mask, nor ceremony's throne,

It stands when every trend has passed and every crowd has gone;

It calls the soul to courage when conformity feels safe,

To choose conviction over comfort and faith above mere shape.

So let us seek the living truth with open eyes and mind,

Examining every path we walk and every voice we find;

For customs fade, opinions change, and human systems fall,

But truth remains unshaken still—the highest voice of all.

© Ikechukwu Frank

- Nigeria.

“Truth or Tradition?” by Ikechukwu Frank emphasizes the importance of seeking truth rather than blindly following traditions, popular opinions, or long-established customs. The poet argues that neither age, popularity, nor authority can determine what is true. Instead, individuals should thoughtfully examine their beliefs and have the courage to choose truth even when it differs from the crowd. The poem concludes by affirming that while traditions and human systems may change, truth remains constant and enduring.