Watching the barefoot coolies as they carried their heavy load amazed me. Astounding to say the least. They showed great physical strength and endurance with small reward at the end of the day.
Barefoot Coolies
I watched the coolies carry the heavy yokes
Baskets of coal swinging on each side
Long lines going to and fro
They march on through the day
Only pausing when the one in front slows
The baskets float along without a sway
And it looks like child’s play
As the sullen-faced men and women carry the load
And empty the laden ship of coal
They step lively along
Each tilted forward a wee bit
To keep the basket of coal
Under control
They must swing it forward a little
To stop or set it down
Carefully bending their knees
The heavy load to relieve
They stop and set on their heels
For a quick moment
Until the line moves again
And the long march goes on
Barefoot, or sandals only
No cushioned shoes
Heels never touch the ground
And no complaints
Leg muscles like steel bands
Show through the skin
Beautiful people
Doing a job
They only ask for a bowl of rice
And a cot
Tomorrow will be another day