Let the New Year Come

(Dedicated to the Filipino Youth) Our years of youthful yonder— carry the mark of strength and beauty. Like ancient, unwavering mountains, no force can shake us, no storm can bend us. Our years of noble sacrifice — bear the weight of wisdom and menace. Like the clever, tireless ant in summer daze, Rizal’s pen a throne of heroes’ embrace. Our years of patriots and warriors— roar with Bonifacio’s unbending valor. Like lions prowling the open fields, we stand our ground, unyielding to fear. But our years— have fallen into darkness. Like endless nights without the promise of dawn, we stumble, we falter, we fall. And our years— We felt as though we should not come. Like fleeting bubbles that burst and vanish. We have wished to reverse our path. Where are the years- of no gadgets, but a field pool of friends? Life has turned into a lonely crypt. A sorrowful prison enclosing our grip. Where are the years- of honor and pride? We have become like withering grass, trampled underfoot, trembling, out of gas. Oh, return our years to us! You who gave us life and breath— Like seeds buried deep in the soil, revive us, anoint us with Your Holy Oil. Restore the years- when love for country burned like fire. As a mother shields her child from storms, we dream of seeing Her freed and dignified. As the new year dawns- strive for what is right, Like kites soaring in freedom's democracy— Unafraid to face tomorrow’s tyranny. For we place our trust in You Almighty. Oh, years of bicycles and oak trees — Where have they gone? Bring them back to us, O gracious Lord. Breathe the passion we once lost. Remember You, Creator’s host. Let the new year come— don’t close.