Singh
I wrote the original (Filipino) version many years ago, for my philo professor, Fr. Roque Ferriols. The english version I wrote recently in a fit of inspiration during the storm Maring that devastated the whole of Metro Manila, the Philippines.
I had written it in a fit of inspiration while watching a moth fly near candles I had lighted to bring some scent and ambience to my room. I remembered Socrates. I remembered Fr. Ferriols. And I remembered myself.
Metamorphosis
eric santillan
Hinintay kita.
Nasa harap natin ang
Nakakahalinang ilaw,
Nagbabagang liwanag
Nag-iimbita.
Alam naman natin
Ang mangyayari–
Marami nang nakapagsabing
Huwag lumapit
Sa bango-init-liwanag.
Ngunit nandito pa rin tayo.
Palapit nang palapit.
Ewan ko ba
Kung udyok ito ng loob o imbita ng apoy.
Walang pasubaling
Lumipad ka sa huling pagkakataon.
Tungo sa liwanag
Kamatayan
Buhay.
Hindi ka man lang lumingon
At nagpaalam.
Metamorphosis
eric santillan
I waited for you.
You and I,
in front of the alluring light,
smouldering brightness
that entices.
We both know
What will happen–
Many have warned us
Not to come close to
The fragrant-warm-light
And yet we’re here. Still.
On the brink.
I do not know
If this is what we desire
or if it’s the invitation of the fire.
Without warning
You took off for the last time
Towards light
Towards death
Towards life.
You did not even look back
To bid me goodbye.
For Padre Roque Ferriols
[by Eric Santillan]
prayersofapilgrim.com 