DIDACTIC: "WAITING AT THE GATE" BY SUMAILA UMAISHA

I wait at the gate,

a broken hourglass

over my head.

I'm not scared

of known stings,

but of old faces

through the gate,

unseen moves

shifting underfoot.

I used to sleep 

between yawns,

folded like old age,

fools saving

grains for times

that might not come.

Now, here it comes,

loaded for the fools, 

while I stand

empty at the gate...

©SUMAILA UMAISHA 

-Nigeria 

"Waiting at the Gate" by Sumaila Umaisha is a didactic poem that explores the consequences of complacency, procrastination and failure to prepare for life's uncertainties. Through the imagery of a broken hourglass and a gate, the poet presents a speaker confronted with the anxiety of an approaching but unpredictable reality. The poem contrasts past negligence with present vulnerability, suggesting that people who disregard the need for preparation may eventually find themselves helpless when unexpected challenges arise. It teaches the importance of foresight, preparedness and making meaningful use of time before circumstances become unfavourable.