Finding Home

Dear 17-Year Old Guide, You walked as fast as the staccato beats of Djembe drums. My breath, in hurried gasps, my neurons stimulated to last me a week. Most of all, my heart, oh my heart, you made it bursting with fire and light. You said, "Nag-agad ra man ko ninyo , Ma'am." (I was only relying on your pace.) As much as I was flattered, it was the best this 36-year old body could do. Never mind that I am twice as old as you are. But really this letter is less about me and more about you. You, will go far. Your persistence and the fire inside you will bring you to places many people only dream of. Your light made me arrive at this realization-- That whatever dark place I am in, for as long as I do not stop putting one foot in front of the other, I will get to the other side. Perhaps that is why you and many others we have gotten the privilege of knowing are aptly called "Guides". You lead the way, clear the path as we trek and climb the trails.

Quiet spaces, subtle pauses, a pondering glance, a deep inhale, taking in a cold gust of wind,  listening to bird call,  a paddle  slicing through the liquid blue,  Light on bamboo, Sky on water A silent song Sung on transparent skies  Singing, "All you have to do is close your eyes And be still Be...still."

Signs saying Exit here or Enter there Automatic sensors doors Sliding, swinging People rushing, leaving, running Out of breath Clock running Out, always out No one notices The shadows Its beauty Of light on dark Or maybe they do? But just the dark? Where are you going anyway? What are you doing? What for?  Entry ways Doors sliding Or swinging Go through them Just don't forget To take your heart With you.