The soft pounding of the drums
Echoed memories, from the years
Remembering my ancestors. . . And
Their walking “The Trail of Tears”
A people, of peace, Who suffered grief
On our land, we were content, to the core
Having our own “White” and “Red” Chief
One for peace. . .The other, in case of war
Proud people, of many generations
So persecuted, yet set in their way
Forced to walk their way to Oklahoma
With much hardship . . . Day after day
Many of my people, died along the way
For women and children, walking took it’s toll
Many had suffered . . .Such bleakness, everyday
A time, that was so heartbreakingly . . Cruel
Today, we know that times are different
The Native American, live on their own land
Yet, sad to think of the. . . Destruction, but
The Cherokee of today, have taken a stand!
(Dedicated To My Ancestors)
Copyright 2008 Judith Johnson Kypta
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The Cherokee Memorial at Red Clay, TN. is a moving park to visit. It's the beginning place of the Cherokee's Trail of Tears and a very fitting spot to remember this event. Thanks for sharing your poem-your ancestors would be happy to know they have not been forgotten.
