nost

 I live in the world I’ve always dreamed of. Three years ago I cried as my plane took off from Africa. Now I fight back the tears. I’m back. I’m home. I know of no other way to say it. I know this place and am comfortable here. Termite mounds stand red and tall on the earth. A mango tree drops its fruit outside my window. Brightly colored birds dance for me amongst the tropical trees and the sun sprays colors across the open sky as it sets. Chiseled black faces look my way and smile bright white teeth as I bask in the glow. I don’t belong and, yet, I do. And more than I had suspected…I remember. The smells, the colors