The queue snakes
right round the corner
and it is just about 6am

a brisk Monday morn
and I have a feeling
of déjà vu

(I have been here before
we have been here before)

We should be free
is one of many sayings
you get to hear
in places like these

(choicer ones I leave
steaming behind)

outside we are
in the fresh air we are
we who are senior
citizens of the land

older persons
pensioners
and pensioners
to be

We should be free
from all of this
free from the elements
in the little village

We should be free
not shackled imprisoned
and trapped

not feeling like
we’ve done something
wrong

(someone wonders
is it not our money)

When will freedom reign

Will it

Ever

One fine Monday morning, out at the Athlone SASSA office, 24 Feb 2020.