In Exile

My homeland

Is where the river flows,

And where the tall grass dance

And where the crickets chirp

On a warm summer night.

My homeland

Is where the rooster crows,

And where the piglets oink

And where young ducks wobble

On a howling winter morning.

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If you chance upon my land,

Do me a favor and tell the river to stop grieving

Because better days are ahead.

If you encounter the old faithful oak,

Offer him a little hug

And spare him a tickle or two.

If you pass by the field of crops,

Don’t forget to take a short respite

To smell the sweet tomatoes

And fragrant rice.

If you come across a wooden house,

Sandwiched between the coconut trees,

Gently awaken him from his long slumber

And tell him to prepare for his master’s return - someday.

If you meet the people,

Returning home after a long work day,

Tell them to cease their longing

And live outside the shadow of unhappiness

And of sorrows.

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Oh Stranger! Why life has to be so despondent,

So unfair, so full of conflicts?

Oh Stranger! Will my last wish ever be fulfilled?