Scribblory Writers Library
Your virtual library of true stories has come to this site!
Scribblory Writers Library shelters short true-to-life stories written by the memoirists of Scribblory Writers Group. This virtual library started in 2020, at the outset of COVID-19 pandemic. While the world was losing many lives, we held our pens and preserved life stories.
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Category: Poems
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Education
The Manuscript of My Heart
Written By: Marvin I. Sinacay
October 28, 2024
In the shadows of harsh whispers,
Where echoes of judgment cling,
I’ve walked a path of silent scorn,
My heart’s manuscript, a muted string.
They labeled me with cruel names,
Their voices were sharp as they tore me apart,
Mocking the strength they could not see,
That my mind could lift a heavy cart.
Years passed, and still, they pressed,
With questions that twisted like a knife:
"Where’s the wife? What’s the date?"
In their eyes, my worth was tied to a life.
Yet, through the darkness of their gaze,
Only my family’s love, I held true:
In the quiet of my mother’s arms,
And friends who understood what I went through.
Oh Lord, will there come a time
When the truth can freely be told?
A society that scorns my love,
Will it warm to a heart so bold?
Poetry Impoverished Amidst Plenty
Written By: Maximo Tumbali
October 14, 2024
Shoddily crafted poems spreading in great abundance,
Vitiating the poetry’s beauty, tolerating complaisance.
Full of grammatical flaws, exacerbated by poor diction,
Such poems are difficult to understand and breed confusion.
Trying hard to figure out what exactly they want to convey
Is much worse than going through a bad, unbearable day.
Giving all your efforts to squeeze or extract their essence,
But to no avail; what comes out is awful nonsense.
This is poetry in a state of impoverishment amidst plenty,
Flooding platforms with trivialities and mediocrity.
Verses need not be couched with words so abstruse,
Lest they befuddle or displease rather than amuse.
Poets should know that poetry is a wellspring
Of meaning, giving reality, beauty, and well-being.
‘Tis incumbent upon them to realize that,
In every bit of reality—
exists an exquisite, incomparable source of poetry.
It takes sharp sensitivity to capture and explore its domain,
To nurture it like a flower with soft light and gentle rain.
Poetry is verbose and cumbersome causes mental congestion,
Where one mired in its density suffers exhaustion.
A poet in the habit of using intricate words to flaunt erudition
Often ends up getting his followers bored.
Worse, veering readers away from work
So dense and onerous; it negates its worth.
A poem made up of simple but meaningful lines
Is better than one woven with words that rhyme—
Bereft of relevance and significance,
Like awkward steps mistaken for dance.
A Teacher’s Light, Forever Bright
Written By: Rezel Jean T. Achacoso
October 14, 2024
In every heart, they plant a seed,
Of knowledge, hope, and strength to lead.
Their words a guide, their hands a map,
They lift us when we might snap.
Through every lesson, firm yet kind,
They shape the soul, they mold the mind.
With patience, love, and gentle cheer,
They help our doubts and fears disappear.
Each chalk-streaked hand, each sleepless night,
They fight for dreams with all their might.
They stand beside us when we fall,
Our teachers are there through it all.
The years go by, yet still they stay,
In every step along the way.
Their impact echoes, near and far,
In who we are, in who we will be.
So here’s to teachers, pure and true,
Whose quiet strength will see us through.
Their legacy, a shining flame,
Forever etched beside their name.
Footnotes of a Forgotten Past
Written By: Marvin I. Sinacay
October 6, 2024
In Carranglan’s gentle embrace,
Where memories weave through the years,
I recall those tender days spent
With my grandmother, through laughter and tears.
She was a figure of stern grace;
Her eyes were sharp, yet her heart was warm and true.
In Aritao’s sunlit fields, we toiled,
Weeding gardens beneath skies ever blue.
Each morning, we journeyed to our kin's abode,
Sweat mingling with the dawn's first light,
With every leaf we pulled and every seed we sowed,
We were paid for our labor—a small delight.
Homeward we’d travel, hands stained and proud,
Planting our own crops in the earth’s embrace—
Sweet potatoes and cassava, nurtured from the ground,
In a garden where time left its trace.
But time marched on, and so did we,
To Aurora, where our fortunes lay,
Leaving her behind, aged and alone,
Her hands now still, her heart’s final day.
Words of Change
Written By: Rezel Jean T. Achacoso
September 15, 2024
In the heart of every spoken word,
The youth rise with voices heard,
Bridging gaps and dreams afar.
Leadership shines like a guiding star.
From ancient tongues to future’s grace,
Language weaves a strong embrace.
Young leaders grasp the threads so fine;
Their words ignite, and their hopes align.
In classrooms bright and fields of green,
Their visions are cast in every scene,
Empowered by the past’s embrace.
They forge ahead and set the pace.
With courage bold and hearts so wide,
They lead with wisdom as their guide.
In every dialect and plea,
A brighter world for all to see.
Through the echoes of their call,
They build a future, strong for all.
With language as their beacon,
The youth inspire and renew.
Moribund Love in September
Written By: Maximo Tumbali
September 12, 2024
A few more days left before September ends,
Hope for my moribund love to revive bends
Akin to a branch—drying, fragile, and brittle.
Efforts to rekindle the flame mean so little.
What's the use of loving a girl?
Her thoughts fly somewhere,
A dying ember I feel I am,
Junked like a broken stem.
If September has to end now,
I want to give up and bow,
Saying goodbye to a love affair,
vulnerable to bad weather.
Romance does endure
If hearts in love be pure—
Easier said than done.
What if love is gone?
SEPTEMBER SONG
Written By: Maximo Tumbali
September 1, 2024
What's in September that gets me a fever?
Neither the heat that scorches and lingers,
Nor the election campaigns raging,
Nor the expletives and curses mounting.
It's a ditty, celebrating love in September–
People in love, singing and smiling at each other.
If only I can accentuate that ‘love is in the air,’
Everyone catches it as it diffuses everywhere.
For me, any song intoned in September is magic;
‘Tis the power of this month that does the trick,
Touching heart and soul excited to be regaled.
Every note ringing high and low is to be hailed.
Knowing that such happens only in September,
And the only one of its kind is to really remember;
Hence, I would not change it to any other month.
I love September for its allurement and warmth.
Language of Unity: Embracing All Voices
Written By: Rezel Jean T. Achacoso
August 31, 2024
In every tongue, a story unfolds,
A tapestry of voices, both new and old.
Youth stand together, hand in hand,
Weaving a world where all can stand.
Each word they share, a bridge they build,
To hearts and minds, once kept sealed.
Language becomes a thread so fine,
That binds us all in every line.
In diversity, they find their strength.
No voice too small, no distance too great.
The future shines with colors vast,
As youth embrace both present and past.
Inclusivity in every breath they take,
A promise of tomorrow they create.
With open arms, they welcome all,
Breaking barriers, making the world whole.
Through language, they carve a space so wide,
Where every dream and hope reside.
Youth lead the way with hearts so true,
In a world where all belong, where all renew.
Legacy of Language, Promise of Tomorrow
Written By: Jeffrey G. Delfin
August 26, 2024
In every word spoken–clear and true–
The Filipino language is our guiding light,
A treasure that will never fade.
In the hearts of the youth, it blooms and burns bright.
Youth, to you is entrusted
The spirit and honor of our tongue,
Voice of the people, heartbeat of the land.
You shall be the pillars of our strong culture.
Nurture the language that has long stood guard,
Through the rich history of our noble race.
In every word, thought comes alive,
Shaping and breathing life into the future’s embrace.
In this language, dreams will awaken,
Hearts will burn with passion’s flame.
Foundation of the nation, through every trial and storm,
You will be the light in the path of tomorrow’s aim.
Youth, in your hands lies the fate
Of our beloved nation’s destiny.
In the Filipino language, unite and succeed.
Together, let us face the future with dignity.
Soul Departed Speaking
Written By: Maximo Tumbali
August 18, 2024
Physically I'm gone, my dear,
But my spirit is very near–
My presence you intensely feel
like the wind sending you a chill.
You don't see me now,
But I sense somehow
that you crave for me
and my physical body–
Via the air that you breathe,
as a breeze caresses your cheek.
You'll notice my presence,
even in your cold hands.
Take away that grief;
Though I'm gone,
I still love you.
You're my bliss.
You come to visit my grave,
And pray for my soul to be saved.
Thank you, sweetheart!
My love for you is intact.
Wherever you are,
I'm your guiding star.
Never will you get lost–near or far.
Don't worry about me;
I live here peacefully.
Though I am gone,
You and I are one–
in spirit and in love–
Same as One above.
Dry the tears in your eyes,
And look up towards the sky.
I stare at you
behind the clouds–
and I am very proud.
Word, Voice, and Gifts
Written By: Michelle Joy M. Velasco
August 7, 2024
In a world that silences them without any capacity,
It is incumbent upon you to uphold veracity.
The populace looks to you with optimism,
To serve as the exemplar of valor's wisdom.
Your utterance is akin to a weapon;
Your voice demands an audience to will on.
Within you resides God's nature,
For a divine seed to flourish and mature.
The undertaking bestowed upon you is formidable;
The endowments are at your command; they are inevitable.
The divine has furnished His warrior
With the ability to ascend the peaks and go higher.
Fear not, for you were meticulously designed.
In His image and likeness, we are all equalized–
We are enriched as His children.
Do not cower, for He has risen.
Bear witness to the marvels and fortitude;
Do not permit apprehension and trepidation to breed attitude,
For the divine communicates in silence.
It’s time to heed His message and make a difference.
Buwan ng wika
Wika at Kabataan, Gabay sa Kinabukasan
Ni Rezel Jean T. Achacoso
Agosto 1, 2024
Sa wika’y nakatanim, mga pangarap ng lahi.
Sa bawat kabataan, ito’y inihahasik.
Sa kanilang mga labi, diwa’y nag-aalab.
Bawat salitang bigkas, liwanag sa dilim.
Mga kabataan, tagapagmana ng ating yaman.
Sa wika’y nag-ugat ang kulturang kayamanan.
Tinig nila’y bumabalot sa buong bayan,
Nagbibigay pag-asa sa bawat tahanan.
Sa mga pangarap, sila’y matibay na haligi.
Ang Wikang Filipino’y ginagawang saligan.
Sa bawat hakbang, ito’y kanilang dala.
Sa kinabukasang matayog, sila’y umaakyat.
Pagyamanin ang wika, sa puso’t isipan.
Sa bawat kabataan, ito’y magbubunga,
Magiging gabay nila sa daan ng buhay.
Sa hinaharap, tagumpay ay maaabot.
Sa kanilang mga kamay, wika’y binibigyang kulay,
Kasama ng pag-asa, paninindigan, at lakas.
Sa bawat henerasyon, ito’y humahawi ng landas.
Kabataang Pilipino, tagapagdala ng bukas.
Buwan ng wika
bunyi
Ni Fr. Saul Flanders-Cline, dps, JD, LL.D, MAT, DTh
Agosto 1, 2024
Pinag-aaralan tayo ng wika
Kahalintulad ng pag-aaral natin sa kaniya.
Lumulundag ako sa galák,
Itinutungga ako ng alak,
Laklak nang laklak,
Mukha na akong parak.
Sinasayawan ko ang mgá panggatong,
Lumalaban sa akin, nagliliyab na apóy.
Ako ay apóy–nagliliyab na ako.
Humahalakhak ng humahalakhak,
Walang lamang lata, latak na latak.
Kung saan alingawngaw ko ay nakalagak,
Boses kong wasak-wasak.
Dumudula ako sa kalsada.
Pinapanood ako ng mgá busína,
Pagmumura, kabayaran ng lahat-lahat—
Ng pagmamahal,
Ng pag-aaruga,
At ng pagmamalasakit ko sa sining at sa aking sarili.
Ipinagbubunyi ko ang tagumpay ng wika.
Isinasayaw kong wika ay ako.
Buwan ng wika
Umid na Dila
Ni Jommel S. Peconda
Agosto 1, 2024
Sa mala-garing na silo ng batas,
Isang imbing kaluluwa ang nakasingkaw–
Mga mata’y nangungulimlim,
Hibik na katarunga’y hangad na matighaw.
Siya’y siniphayo at inamis,
Biniktima ng balintunang batas,
Buhay ay naparool sa maling paratang
Ng balakyot at mapanilang mga limbas.
Mga panaghoy ng pagdurusa’t hinanakit,
Maririnig sa karimlang pusikit.
Ang pagsilay ng bagong umaga,
Sa kanya’y tuluyan nang ipinagkait.
Sakbibi ng hilahil,
Hustisya’y tanging pita’t panambitan.
Kailan pa kaya mawawasak,
Moog na nagkukulong sa mga walang kapangyarihan?
Alam niyang ‘di pa huli ang lahat.
Ang umid na dila’y pipitlag at magkakaroon ng lakas,
Tinig ng api’y magsisimulang sumambulat
Sa pagkamit ng hustisya sa lipunang hindi patas.
Turning Mistakes into Miracles: A Story of Forgiveness in Teaching
Written by Rezel Jean T. Achacoso
July 27, 2024
In the classroom of dreams, where hope takes flight,
Lessons begin and futures are bright,
Yet mistakes are made, sometimes out of sight,
A teacher’s missteps can bring tears to light.
Words may falter, and understanding might fade,
Unseen wounds form from choices that were made.
But in every error, lies a chance to mend,
Forgiveness is the bridge that we can extend.
Through every mistake, growth begins anew,
Understanding ourselves and others too,
Correcting the path, not for blame but for grace,
Building stronger bonds in this shared space.
Forgiveness opens doors where healing can start,
A journey from hurt to a mending heart,
Each step of compassion, each moment to grow,
Guides us from pain to a future aglow.
As the day ends, the lesson remains clear,
Unity and kindness are always near,
In the hearts of teachers and students alike,
From hurt to healing, our spirits take flight.
Heart, Soul, and Mind
Written by Maximo Tumbali
July 24, 2024
We have a heart, soul, and mind for a good reason.
Each has specific functions that need expression.
They become quite problematic
When they are very much in conflict.
If the soul interferes with the affairs
of the heart and mind, chances are they’ll fall apart.
Ideally, they should establish synergy
By employing all their inputs collectively.
This looks easier said than done—
Heart, soul, and mind on the run.
If saddled with myriad problems,
Solved through various stratagems.
'Tis a different matter if, in poetry,
The three give it form and integrity.
The soul has a language of its own,
Necessary to give expression.
To almost anything it perceives—
Feelings, experiences, or beliefs.
All are building blocks of verses.
Heart and mind, although averse
To each other sometimes, can do
Much the same in conveying true
and meaningful understanding
of reality, a character poetry must bring.
A poet worth his salt must listen to
his heart, soul, and mind.
What they say reflects aspects of reality that bind.
He draws from his toolkit similes,
Metaphors, and the like
To craft poetry one can recite
to the heart's delight.
I envy those who write poetry—
Cashing in on their sensitivity.
They're to be hailed or admired;
Their skill is naturally acquired.
A genuine poet weaves poetry
That tells a very interesting story.
Grace Beyond the Pain
Written by Rezel Jean T. Achacoso
July 21, 2024
In shadows deep, where doubts reside,
Where faith once bloomed, now hurts abide.
I questioned why the pain, the strife,
And life seemed bound in endless nights.
Yet in the depths, a whisper came—
A voice of love, not one of blame.
Forgiveness for the wounds I’ve held,
A promise in the dark, it swelled.
“Trust in me,” the whisper spoke.
“My plans for you—not just a cloak—
Though paths may twist and dreams may fade,
In waiting, find the strength I’ve laid.”
The anger—like a storm—passed,
Replaced by peace, a faith steadfast.
For though my prayers seemed lost, unheard,
In silence, He had weaved His word.
Now healing flows, where once was pain.
A heart renewed in Heaven’s name,
And forgiveness is found in His embrace.
Eternal love—amazing grace!
Shackled
Written by Maximo Tumbali
July 14, 2024
My eyes–teary and blurred—
can't see clearly, troubled and murky
like the world I live in;
thus, I can only cry
if I find myself helpless
in fixing what's in a mess.
What comes to mind
is our love affair in crisis.
No amount of hugging,
caressing, or kissing—
save verbal exchanges—
can salvage or bail it out
of its unfortunate state.
What I can sense here
is the element of deceit
that we both ignore,
as it gives us freedom
to explore other means
by which we can enjoy
our individual lives—
free of the pressure of being together,
yet tedious if not hypocritical.
'Tis fun to be unfaithful
if the purpose is to choose
the one who can make you
happy, fulfilled, and complete.
'Tis an excruciating torment
to be tied to someone
who makes your life miserable.
To love means being free
to express your affection for anybody
without necessarily getting yourself
shackled.
GLOBAL FORGIVENESS DAY
From Hurt to Harmony: A Journey of Forgiveness
Written by Rezel Jean T. Achacoso
July 7, 2024
In darkness, my heart broke.
Betrayal’s sting—a deep, sharp ache.
Wounds so deep, I couldn’t see,
A path to peace, a way to be.
Yet in the silence, light emerged,
A gentle whisper softly surged.
Forgiveness asked a tender plea
To set the chains of pain, now free.
Trembling, I dared to try
To let the fury pass me by.
In forgiving, strength I found,
A love rekindled, unbound.
The scars remain, a silent tale,
Of lessons learned where anger failed.
In quietude, my heart began to heal.
Each step, a chance to bend and feel.
The path from hurt to harmony is long,
But forgiveness made me strong.
A tale of pain turned into grace.
In love’s embrace, I found my place.
cold as ice
Written by Maximo Tumbali
June 26, 2024
She's cold as ice;
Her piercing eyes were eerie,
Her heart was as hard as stone,
Hardly a home.
She's a two-pronged evil,
infamous for her ill-will,
An angel of the dark,
Her heart was so sinister.
If you cross her path,
You'll suffer her wrath.
At first glance, she's amazing,
Like flowers that bloom in spring.
Her trick is to win your soul,
And you give her your all.
Caught by her charm,
You don't feel her harm,
Thinking everything’s okay,
But the truth is you're the prey
To all her maleficent desires,
Orchestrated in her wiles.
There's neither a silver lining in the sky,
Nor light at the tunnel’s end,
Nor a pot of gold at the rainbow's end.
If you fall into the devil's alluring trap,
The promise of heaven is all but crap.
international day of families
Together Forever
Written by Maximo Tumbali
May 15, 2024
Our marriage may not be perfect,
Nor is it the best in the West.
Yet it has ably stood the test of time,
And is now vibrant and sweet as wine.
We've had some ups and downs,
And a mix of laughter and frowns.
Surprisingly, our bond remains solid and sound.
For this, we both deserve to be awarded a crown.
Our heads up, our hearts glowing,
Our love for each other blooming,
Our family is blessed and prosperous,
God is on our side, and thus we're joyous.
For some special reason, we need to be grateful today.
‘Tis our anniversary that we celebrate in a meaningful way.
Reminiscent of the day when we tied the knot together
And vowed to God that our marriage be stronger.
You and I are staying together as one,
Living our marriage, so full of fun.
As a faithful, loving couple,
We can be a good example
For couples who are just starting,
Giving their union a new meaning.
mother's day special
A Mother's Eternal Embrace
Written by Jeffrey G. Delfin
May 12, 2024
Being a mother is a challenge grand and vast—
A lifetime role, unchosen, and steadfast.
With you, my life’s blessings overflow.
Mama, your love is the purest I know.
For the endless love that you always give,
And for your kindness—to God, I thank and live.
You’re a beacon of grace—a model so true.
For all that you’ve done, I deeply thank you.
I find strength with you as my guiding light.
In your presence, everything feels right.
You’ve shown me paths to walk with care,
So in my deeds, your wisdom I bear.
Forever grateful, my heart does sing,
You taught me the beauty life can bring.
Our bond is unbreakable—strong and sure.
In your love, I find my cure.
Mama, your love is a rare treasure.
In my heart, your memories I will forever secure.
With you, I’ve learned life’s sweetest song,
In your embrace, I forever belong.
DREAM
Written by Maximo Tumbali
April 30, 2024
Be wary of a dream that dances.
To get it, one must take chances.
Quite often lost if one is awake.
To retrieve it, one needs a break.
To summon some concentration,
One needs to pursue acquisition.
Dreaming goes above what it is;
It's concretizing a goal to get it.
Some would just love to dream—
So fascinating as it may seem.
While in the act of dreaming,
They have more fun sleeping,
Hesitant to wake up to reality
To turn back on every difficulty
Our real world is known for,
Denying us of life's fervor.
For a dream to be real, it must be acted upon,
Lest it becomes nothing but fiction.
You must dream if you can,
For there’s a lot of good things to earn.
To be Poor
Written by Michelle Joy M. Velasco
April 25, 2024
It's difficult to be poor,
Knowing that tomorrow is never secure.
This world can be cruel,
And won't give you a chance to rule.
The rich seem to have it all,
While the poor are left with a crawl.
Life can be full of sadness and mess.
Oh Lord, help me to get through this stress.
Working hard seems like a waste,
When the judgment is unjust and in haste.
Being poor is a struggle,
Even if you're searching for a miracle.
God, give me the strength to carry on,
As patience has its marathon.
I hope for a better tomorrow,
Where the horizon will be wider and is not hollow.
It's hard to be poor,
But God will make it pure.
Blessings will surely come,
And life will make you calm.
Life, A Journey
Written by Maximo Tumbali
April 21, 2024
Life is a journey; it’s never static but always becoming—
Set against the backdrop of day and night alternating.
The fusion of the two creates a breathtaking spectacle,
Over the horizon, as far as the naked eye can see.
The sun casts brilliant rays to dissipate the dark shadows of life.
The night creeps in as humans grope, bearing their burdens.
Such is life drawn into two contrasting contexts—
Each one helps in transforming life as envisioned.
At times, we do change ways and plans as needed,
Or we get bogged down, confused, and frustrated.
To the vagaries of life, we must then be attentive.
To unexpected changes coming, we must be perceptive.
Life is a gift that comes but once and is too precious to waste,
Yet a challenging, adventurous, and joyous journey to take.
As we all stand to benefit from it,
There must be no reason to quit.
easter sunday special:Anchor
Written by Maximo Tumbali
March 31, 2024
Inhale, exhale.
Be still.
Take in the air's aroma.
Feel God's presence.
He's a Spirit, invisible like the fresh air—
A Giver of life whom you should adore.
Cast away your doubts and firm up your faith.
In Him, you find strength, meaning,
Purpose, and direction.
Thy soul is one with Him;
You won't go astray, amiss,
Awry, restless, or adrift
He is your Anchor,
Protector, Friend, and Compass.
world poetry day
Celebrating Poetry
Written by Maximo Tumbali
March 21, 2024
Your heart, whether young or old, blends your pieces in the right mix.
Long or short, if full of flavor, they'll surely enrich the mind.
Your poems are fun to read; their lyrics rhyme and echo like a song.
They evoke good feelings, sentiments, and strong emotions.
Heart and soul jump with joy as they hear your pieces—
Harbingers of bliss, solace, comfort, and gladness.
Your poetry flows in your blood; it circulates and flows.
When shared, anything ugly is enhanced and decorated.
Blow your trumpet, rejoice, and celebrate your poetry.
It has found itself a niche; now, you're one big celebrity.
You’re respected and hailed by your fellow poets—-
A recipient of countless awards and accolades.
world poetry day
I Want to Write a Poem
Written by Caravaca Ime
March 21, 2024
I want to write a love poem.
I want to write an unrequited poem—
An I-want-to-embrace-you poem,
But-it's-an-impossible-thing-to-do poem.
I want to write a sheepish poem
About writing all these poems about you.
For five years’ worth of poems,
Including I'm-not-sure-you've-noticed,
it’s-on-my-wall poem.
With titles like: “I want you to know
That I've gotten over you” poem,
And “I want you to know
That I've accepted the fact
That we will never be together” poem.
“But I will forever care about you” poem.
I want to write a chill poem,
Of me by the seaside poem,
With my hair tangling
In the breeze poem.
I want to write a love poem for our country,
About how I will never get tired
Of standing on the right side of history;
I-will-always-educate-our-people
To-vote-wisely poem.
I want to write a goodbye poem
To forget and stop
The negativity within us all.
I want to write a sunrise poem,
But most of all, a sunset poem,
For-I-am-in-the-twilight-of-my-years poem.
I want to write a caring poem
For my family,
My grandsons,
And my friends.
I want to write an inspiring poem,
And many-poems-as-long-as-I-live poem.
Garden of Friendship: A Journey of Love
Written by Jeffrey G. Delfin
March 16, 2024
In the garden of friendship, seeds were sown,
Yet never did we foresee love's bloom to be shown.
Entwined in another's arms, I stood blind,
Unaware of the emotions waiting to unwind.
Thinking I found love's destined path,
Yet lured by false affection's aftermath.
Blind to my friend's hidden heart's plea,
Lost in a web of uncertainty.
Rescued by loyal friendship's embrace,
My shattered spirit found its place.
Now, in joy's embrace, I thrive;
No longer weary, but alive.
international women's day
RED ROSE
Written by Maximo Tumbali
March 8, 2024
The woman says:
“Thanks to a good friend who shared this red rose with me,
A testament that sharing happiness doesn't have to be costly.
“While a rose can be bought,
Money can't buy the thought
The giver has for the recipient.
“It's not the gift but sentiment
that is valued and cherished,
that forges sweet memories.
“I'm adorned with all sorts of jewelry—
Silver, gold, etc.—too heavy to carry,
No fun having them,
To me, they are a burden.
“A gift of rose that comes from the heart
Is more than enough to assuage my hurt.
“I have tried indulging in many things to seek joy and bliss,
None gave me what I wanted;
Instead, I put myself at risk.
“Indeed, all I need to make my day complete
Is a red velvety rose—fresh, fragrant, and crisp.
“I would love to compare myself to a rose,
Smiling and cheerful;
and to my pals, I'm close.
“But I am not the woman to be fooled;
I have thorns to save my personhood.
A rose, that I am, is a femme fatale;
To all my enemies, I can be brutal."
Learn to respect a rose or any kind of flower.
If abused, it has also the power—
The power to pose danger.
An Epistle to the Ace of Hearts
Written by Dr. Sebastian Flanders-Cline, dps, mba, dba, mpsy, rpsy, psy.d
February 28, 2024
SONNET 1
The green and blue planet we call Earth,
There, a soul passes by like a shooting star,
Where goodbyes are not always happy,
And farewells are not always forever.
The healing grass and the loneliness call birth,
A star of endless possibilities,
You and Heaven now resides in the cosmos,
Where constellations are scattered.
Watch over us from paradise afar,
Where resting place and peace is forever.
SONNET 2
A green pasture on the blue planet Earth,
Innocence lies in the mouth of a babe.
A mother’s pride due to the coming birth,
While a father names a piglet Gabe.
A journey inside the womb turns to a tomb,
Darkness resides in an empty bat cave.
A herd of pigs “starts digging to exhume,”
Hunger and thirst stand in a yard of graves.
A healing grass, and loneliness called moon—
Together create a light of blade grass.
A double-edged blade beneath a monsoon,
Shelters a lake of shattered glass.
Poetry and Voluptuousity
Written by Maximo Tumbali
February 22, 2024
First and foremost, a poet is a lover of words.
His tool is to express emotions he can't hoard.
Out of words, he builds his own unique language.
Oftentimes, it's figurative and deep, akin to an adage.
He employs the same to pen poetry to vent his sensitivity and creativity.
He sees beauty in ugliness as harmony sounds in a blatant mess.
Being a poet, he seems endowed with a third eye.
He knows what's in the mind, and if the heart is a lie.
His sensitivity pierces through every phase of reality,
And reveals what is concealed for everyone to see.
I think to myself, what a wondrous feeling to be a poet!
So expressive of things that touch almost all aspects.
Honestly, I'm in deep romance with words,
Decorating my life and my own world.
I eat them for breakfast, lunch, and supper;
Every poem I create is delectable and super.
Figures of speech are the main ingredients.
Reading my verses is worth an experience.
They tickle not only the physical, but also the spiritual.
But at times, they can be raunchy if not very sensual.
Like any other human,
I can't free myself of voluptuosity;
I'm quite different since I can derive it
From my own poetry.
Love and Rain
Written by Maximo Tumbali
February 10, 2024
Love and rain go together.
Endowed with great power,
They make a perfect match.
Love and rain are cool to touch—
Wet, smooth, soft, cool, and fresh.
Love blossoms in the rain at its best
When lovers excitedly make love under the rain.
In total nudity, their bodies are entwined,
While their arms crawl around them like a vine.
As the rain pours on them, their passion intensifies
Where torrid romance becomes paradise.
Love without rain is parched like a desert—
Worse than a pair of lovebirds dejected.
Flowers need rain to bloom,
So does love to truly boom.
Love and rain coexist
For romance to persist.
My Self-Doubt Dialogue
Written by Daisy Jane Lor
January 27, 2024
I have been chasing things,
Not knowing when to stop.
I just know that I have to go on,
For I know this will be worth it.
Perhaps, God lays obstacles in my path,
Knowing I’ll overcome them all;
For God believes in me,
And His grace is sufficient.
Will everything make sense?
At this moment, I cannot say.
Maybe someday, these struggles
Will lead me to the path of eternity.
Wish I have someone to share
My hopes and aspirations with.
But God’s presence suffice
In this valley of confusion.
My Lord, though I may not understand,
I trust that everything has a purpose.
For You believe in me,
And I trust in You.
international day of education
Melodies of Inspiration
Written by Diana Marie Pablo
January 24, 2024
For my Speech Professor, Mrs. Estrellita Flores:
No matter how the bells ring,
that's how we knew
she's just around,
in her gypsy white skirt.
Adorned with charms and chimes,
her rope belt sings,
and her white espadrilles,
flimsy in gold or silver,
are in harmony with her melody.
And oh, her long, curly blond hair
with long ribbons
or cute dainty clips–
how could one possibly miss her?
She's that Spanish-looking,
shamelessly English-speaking,
unapologetically old, rich woman
from a posh village
of big money and houses.
She’s my speech prof in college,
whose words embraced me,
yet questioned, "What happened to you?"
and left a lasting impression on me.
I could forget all but her–
the way how she embraces every word,
and pronounces every letter,
as if they're stars from a dark sky
flickering with light.
If only I could see her again,
and ask her if I could borrow her sparkle,
or if I could shine just like her,
wearing the same from head to toe.
​
Oh, how I wish I could be like her!
I wish I could talk to her again,
and tell her she's the reason
why I chose this path I’m taking.
​
To my muse who inspired me to do best:
Someday we'll see each other again.
Someday we'll both hear
that same sweet sound–
a sound that is yours and yours alone.
Time and Time Again
Written by Maria De Guzman
January 13, 2024
The seconds have been consuming,
But here I am, glorifying Your Name.
Even if I am looking for many answers
To the many questions
That always leave me hanging
Whenever I experience chaos in my life,
Time and time again.
The minutes have been passing,
But here I am, trying to get closer to You,
Trying to build a foundation of love.
Whenever I gaze at the Cross,
This Cross upon which You built a foundation,
Just to make myself believe
That Your Sacrifice
Is something I cannot surmise,
But leaves me appreciating Your Love,
Time and time again.
The hours have been gaining more momentum,
But here I am, trying to slow down,
Beholding what is left of me,
To relive the many graces You have given me,
Delving into the reality
That the dreams I wish to come true
Have always come from You.
The days have been slowly passing by,
But here I am, trying to look for Your Will,
Looking for a glimpse of Your Blessings,
Searching for a snippet of Your Truth,
Only to discover the depths of Your Grace
Have always been revealed
Through the many people You have given me
To make me realize
That I am less alone.
Then, I rejoice over the fact
That whenever I experience great trials,
Time and time again,
You will be there,
You will provide.
I will see You in the many people who have suffered;
I will encounter Your Presence
In the many people who have experienced loss;
I will relive Your Love
In the same love I gain from my loved ones.
You will make all things new.
You will make me stronger, Oh Lord.
Time and time again…
With this, Lord,
I see that this world is good,
Because I always have You in my heart,
In my being,
In my soul,
Time and time again.
For anyone who needs these words, may you resonate with them.
Tatay Mentong
Written by Reese
August 27, 2020
I wish you were here.
I hope you can accompany me.
I hope you can still give me a warm hug.
I hope you can send me a message in my dreams.
I know you are now in peace.
I pray that you are now in heaven.
I know you are still guiding me.
I pray that you are still looking over us.
I was about to say, "Happy Birthday!"
But that doesn't sound right.
I should say, "Thanks for the memories,
that you have left with us who are still alive."
To the Great I Am
Written by Sisang Batute
August 25, 2020
Like many, I know You are everywhere.
I can call upon Your powerful name any time, any day.
Yet, Your presence in the Most Holy Way
which You have brought by Your own body and blood,
I truly long for every day.
If there is one thing that I am most scared of today,
it is not COVID or any virus of that kind.
It is the grace to lose the desire to commune –
to be one with you, O Dear Holy One.
When You left the earth, You promised us this:
The Apex, the Summit of our faith,
and it is there where You will always wait.
Men are frail; we easily yield to the bait.
But here's to the evil one:
No threat can defeat the Great I AM.
His Words are alive, and His promises shall be done.
For a hungry soul, when soon fed,
will come to life with much fervor.
Thus, I will wait and soon live
a better, holier, and healthier life.
To Someone I Dearly Missed
Written by Kai Alfonso
August 24, 2020
Waiting is patience's teacher.
Should I heed her call?
Countless endeavors
Fill me all day long.
Running empty corridors,
Nothing could be heard
To reach the destination,
To mark longings end.
What does it make of me
Extending my hands,
Holding on the seams
Of tomorrow's promises?
I'm running for shadows.
Questions flood my heart:
Why do I keep on holding?
Why do I keep the part?
Looking at the endless sea,
Somehow, someday,
Waiting is love's best friend,
Wiping the tears away.
Waves of laughter in the distance,
Something that lifts the soul,
Finally embracing,
Finally, the missing stops.
Acrostic
Written by Sophia Ruth
August 23, 2020
I once saw this acrostic on the wall,
Bearing some stranger's name
On Valentine's theme.
The next day, the thread was longer –
Another stranger's name,
But clearly, love was its game.
The clever retorts, the quick banter, the rhyming words –
Cute, dreamy even.
Speak of the boldness of love, displayed not for fame.
Then I thought about you –
You whom I still yet to know,
Still a stranger on my own walls, too.
But maybe one day,
I'll also be that name –
your acrostic that gives meaning to.
Today, I Miss You
Written by Naysan Albaytar
August 21, 2020
The way your eyes light up
When you see me approach from a distance,
A look of wonderful surprise –
A promise fulfilled, a reunion of hearts.
Endless stories,
A barrage of questions,
Strings of remarks,
And just your full attention.
The way you fuss about the food –
Do I like it?
The way you check and recheck the bed --
Do I have everything I need?
The endless reminiscing
the barrage of emotions,
Strings of warm memories,
And our carefree conversations.
Do you remember?
I'm supposed to see you today – 'til this happened.
But until then, I'll just call to say hello.
Promise to hold you in my heart and never let go.