Anchin, Dearest, On Your Birthday

For Nasudi Anchin





I can only watch the dream from here,

In this new land of our longing.



You are now a three-year old

Ageless angel and you word your way



To the best days ahead: a Disney

In December, a clay cherubim,



A ceramic doll calling out, "Anchin!"

Ah, such clarity, such gentle grace,



Darling dear. Your tiny hands trace

The creases of our fading faces



In bored, blurred lines,

Retracing in infant's imaginings



This unwanted absence. Your dancing lines

Delight in the moving of August



To some other magical moments.

I hear you sing to yourself



That birthday tune, a tender tale

Of counterpoints to this



Endless exile we are heir to.





Aurelio S. Agcaoili

August 2004

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