Like The River

By Tanie Natung

A glacier contemplates silently,

Then melts one fine day,

Warmed by the sun’s gentle kiss;

Becomes a stream, then a river,

And races toward the ocean,

Collecting dust and mud along its way,

Or lamps and flowers of prayers,

Gently released by humble devotees.

In the plains, across vast expanses,

Its journey slows its pace,

Weighed down by time and history,

And the stories it carries in its silt;

And finally, after a gentle pause—

Becomes one with the mighty ocean,

And dances with the waves,

To the rhythm of Infinity!

So too in womb, a fetus contemplates,

Then is born one fine day,

Awoken by the world’s timely call;

Becomes a child, then a man,

And races ahead in life,

Enduring dust and toil in deeds,

Or receiving flowers of blessings,

From places of worship or wise elders.

In his eighties, toward the horizon,

Steps grow laden and breathing labored,

Weighted by years and old memories,

And tapestry of a life woven with care;

And finally, after a quiet prayer—

Becomes one with the Almighty,

And dances with the angels,

To the rhythm of Eternity!

By Tanie Natung