Balikbayan

BALIKBAYAN Six months away to travel Home to a nostalgic place Where, once more, I'd be able to capture The free things: Mountains, pristine rivers, rice fields, fresh air, etc My relatives packing all sorts Used clothing, spam, corned beef, Vienna sausage Coffee, coffee mates, chocolates, candies As if those items were not availabe In any stores except United States. My childhood I mirror Daydreaming in the middle of the ricefield Pulling strings of scarecrows Washing clothes in the running river Drying them under the sun. My childhood brings me back Climbing guava tree in the backyard Riding a carabao was a delight Watching a river gorge Was a wonder and awe! I have gone too far. Now, I am a Balikbayan! With big boxes in a row Fascinating pasalubong to everyone In return Happy smiles I've got! Meanings: Balikbayan -----Overseas Filipino Workers Pasalubong----a present or a gift Carabao--------water buffalo