Thando Dube

The Day Lethu Got Married

The Saturday Morning air was heavy
with sun rays and pandemonium looming 
In the hours ahead, the clouds evaded the sky
still, we marched on a mirrored runway
ballerinas bailadas antes nosotros
ten women in white including the bride
nine women with tears heavy watching the bride

the day Lethu got married
Simo's tears came crashing
like waves on the coast
Zoeï sat with grandma
as Thembi sprinted to get the vows. 
It was me who forgot the vows. 
I followed Thembi as she ran
Devonte danced with lubricated knees
and hands that were cold and clammy
grandma danced beside me
 and gave everyone the eye. 
I danced with Freddie Gwala