I Knock At Your Door

One chilly evening

I knocked at your door

when the wind was piercing

my bones, making them sore

I kept knocking

until my hand was aching

and my coat was dampened by the dew

before I found my efforts had run aground

I knocked at your door

for a final time before I left

after I realized only an echo

had answered my chore

Message (1)

A distance is separating you and me

for a reason which is not clear

although our hearts hate this hideous thing

just accept it, dear, until one day

we will understand its true meaning

Grave

The falling frangipani leaves

and the afternoon breeze

caress your grave

Papa, I'm very curious

whether everything around you is marvelous?

Subuh *)

Last night's dream is still clear

and the morning chill, my God,

does it renew my faithfulness in You?

*) Time just before dawn when Moslems conduct one of their obligatory five daily prayer.

Mosque

When the sound from the mosque glorifies Your name

I bow my head in respect, but doubt emerges from within:

Will my tears be able to clean

the floor of Your house?

-- By Prijono Tjiptoherijanto

Translated by TIS