Let the spirit of independence burn bright

Fifty-nine years ago threw shackles, held our image
The revival traditional customs, values 'n heritage
We suffered serious set back, foreign rule, imperialism
Let's recall inspiring words of great men of patriotism.

With dawn of another momentous 4th February
We still fan the flickering flame of democracy for prosperity.
Unprincipled party politics caused disaster untold
National problems, lifted from quagmire politics, never bold.

When did Sri Lankans begin to see discrimination?
Who's to blame, sowing seeds of racism, degeneration?
To some a nation fractured by feuding politically
Gasping for breath, socially, culturally, economically.

To ensure motherland with renewed determination
Let's echo chimes of Independence gained by evolution,
Recall the concept of Independence, not revolution
To make better quality of life for future generation.

On this historic day, may the true spirit of Independence
Burn brightly in every heart sans a ray of vengeance.
We must emphasise on high ideals of equality, unity
By breaking bonds of lust for power and self glory.

By Kumari Kumarasinghe Tennakoon