Stand with me daddy,
And hold my hand tight.
My future is before me,
I need to know I will be alright.

Stand with me daddy,
As I go forth into the world.
I remember the values you have taught me
Yes, they have taken their hold.

Stand with me daddy,
When I make tough decisions.
I know life is not fair,
But can’t I ask God a question?

Stand with me daddy,
When I bore my son first born,
My life just unraveled,
It was darkest before dawn.

Stand with me daddy,
And see the person I am today,
I’m sure as you look down and see,
You will be proud to have a daughter like me.

by Consuelo Lalunio

( This poem was written by my mother-in-law Dr. Lydia Lalunio. It is written in my native language. I will endeavor to write a translation later. Thank you!)

Meme na Bunso
Meme na bunso
Sa iyong kuna
Pagod si Nanay
Sa pagbabantay
Di alintana
Pagod, puyat niya
Lakas hinuhugot
Sa Poong Maykapal.

Sa buong magdamag
Ay gising si Nanay
Sa daing ni Bunso
Puso’y nawiwindang
Naro’n din si Tatay
Moog Na sandalan
Sa pananalangin
Sa Panginoong Mahal.

Lola, Tito at Tita
Ay nagdadasal
Na bumalik agad
Ang kalusugan
Sa ganitong pagsubok
Sama-sama, akbay-akbay
Bigat ng pasanin
Gumagaan, gumagaan.

Dr. Lydia Perez Lalunio

Wow! Such big words! It’s not as profound as you might think. Nowadays, with everything that is going on in the world, around us, and in our own lives, we have to be able to find meaning in our day to day routine. In fact, just being able to go about our day has meaning in itself. It means that you are able to drive around in your car, able to buy gas and have a purpose in going somewhere. You are part of the hum drum, I should say. Continue reading →