Give us peace to live and be free

On Wednesday Fourth February in the year of Nineteen Forty Eight,
Ceylon as she was then known became an Independent State.
To be rid from the rule of the European Empire,
And gain her freedom, was our country’s great desire.

Honorable D.S. Senanayake was Ceylon’s first Prime Minister,
Also known as “The Father of the Nation” was this respected mentor.
Many other distinguished and prominent personalities took over the reins,
To steer Ceylon and bring her to fame as she goes down memory lane.

In the year of 1972, a significant and memorable event took place,
Ceylon during the European rule, was renamed “Sri Lanka” with poise and grace.
A Democratic Socialist Republic and Commonwealth member she became,
Striving to reach higher goals was our country’s utmost aim.

Eminent scholars in every field have done Sri Lanka proud
At Sports we do excel, to gather a wonderful crowd!!
From Medicine to Technology, Legislation to Administration, Arts and Crafts,
Even the shared Nobel Prize on Environment won by a Sri Lankan, that was very smart!

Sri Lanka’s tropical climate entice foreigners to come over and rest,
Not forgetting her natural harbour rated as the world’s second best.
The flora, fauna, lush vegetation and scenic beauty one could admire with pleasure, Historic ruins in cities of ancient Ceylon, our country’s pride and treasure.

Bitter disturbances have ruptured in this beautiful pearl in its recent past,
Creating hatred, vengeance and violence to our island’s creed and cast.
Why oh why! Cannot beloved Sri Lankans cry out our plea?
“Put down your weapons – WE WANT PEACE – Peace to live and be free”!

By Antonette De Cruze