In the heart of dawn, where shadows yawn,
I tread the path of sorrow's song.
With clay pot balanced, rivers long,
I whisper to the one now gone.
My husband, in the earth so deep,
I fetch the tears that none may keep.
Once a wife, my spirit steep,
Now a slave where shadows creep.
In-laws' eyes like vultures' gaze,
Strip my hope, my dreams erase.
Once a mother, in love's embrace,
Now a child, in this harsh place.
Their words are thorns, their hearts are stone,
In this house, I'm all alone.
From the hearth to fields unknown,
I toil, a ghost, through moans and groans.
The river listens, hears my plea,
Its waters hold my memory.
Oh, husband, set my spirit free,
For in this life, I cease to be.
Once a bride in laughter’s light,
Now a shadow in the night.
I sing, I weep, with all my might,
To honor love, lost to blight.