between the boulders

‘What is this place?This home of the stromatoliteWhich breathed oxygen into lifeWhen the planet still steamed toxic?What is this place?This womb of the mammalsWhich found warmth in their bloodWhen reptiles still ruled the land?What is this place?This cradle of the ape-manWho walked erect on the groundWhen the jungles still favoured swinging?What is this place?This crucible of the stone-manWho tamed the wild red flowerWhen nature still feared incineration?What is this place?This forge of the iron-manWho amplified power in their handsWhen the elements still tested survival?What is this place?This valley of the ancestorsWho discovered strength in communityWhen civilisation still wanted nurturing?What isThis tomb of the warriorsWho fought the battle for dignityWhen prejudice was still a formidable foe?What is this place?This site of world heritageWhich celebrates creation’s genesisWhen the world still craves rebirth?What is this place?This cave of the godsWho dream humanity into the futureWhen evolution is still an embryo?’ – by Dr Wayne Visser