SMALL REQUEST

I’m like a trash in the middle of the road
Orphan without a kin, loitering on the streets
My house is a concrete jungle
With the cloud as its roof—the ground, its floor

When I’m exhausted from the daily grind
I play in your beautiful shorelines
Your playful waves serve as my hammock
Even for a moment, providing a good respite

It’s such a pleasure to listen to the sounds of nature
A music so sweet, can’t be matched by any culture
The chirping of bird in synch with the soft breeze
Gives joy to my heart and unequivocal gladness

To the Lord above to whom I adore
My small request to you I implore
So I may feel my mother’s tender touch,
And hear my father’s songs once more

Thank you oh Lord for granting my prayers
I’m now a trash tossed by nature’s wrath,
But why did you take everyone in your path?
No one was left to lay me in my final respite

Whoever among you can hear
The cry and plea of my small voice
A little generosity—please don’t hesitate to give
To those left behind filled with so much grief…


(Originally written in my native tongue, Tagalog for the victims of typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines)