Children of tomorrow, heed my cry,
For I am Mother Earth, in sorrow I sigh.
My rivers once pure now run dark with despair,
As toxins choke my skies, heedless of my prayer.

Youth of today, with hearts so bold and free,
Why turn away from what you see in me?
I am your home, your cradle and your breath,
Yet you sow destruction, inviting untimely death.

Parents, guardians of my fragile domain,
Why stand aloof, ignoring my pain?
I sheltered your dreams, gave life to your seed,
Now my forests burn, my creatures plead.

Churches and temples, where do you stand?
Silent amidst the desolation, where my plea is banned.
The Pontiff’s voice echoes, “Care for your common home,”
Yet in your pews, my cries echo alone.

Governments hold reins of power, the law at their call,
They trade my riches for a fleeting squall.
Corruption festers, greed taints their decree,
Whilst mine children languish, bound and unfree.
I weep for glaciers lost, oceans in distress,
For species extinct, robbed of their caress.
Storms rage fiercer, droughts linger long,
My wrath unveiled, justice demands strong.

Wake from your slumber, before it’s too late,
Embrace my plea, alter your fate.
Restore my forests, cleanse my streams,
Let harmony reign, fulfill my dreams.

For I am Mother Earth, wounded and torn,
In your hands lies hope, to heal what’s worn.
Listen, dear children, to my sorrowful plea,
For together we thrive, or perish we decree.

Heed my warning, for time slips away,
Let love for me guide you, in every way.
For I am your home, your life’s sacred berth,
Oh, children of Earth, return to me, rebirth.

~Bruno Del Rio
Laudato Go Green Club Nairobi