Ritual

(Dedication: In memoriam, for my late parents.) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Tuesday midday In sunny fest; Yearly memorial ~~~~~~~~~ Upon these grounds Our ancestors sleep; Here flowers bloom ~~~~~~~~~ November third salutes Light pairs of twin candles; Muffins and plum wine ~~~~~~~~~ Spring clean red onyx Gold-lettered tablet; Feel short prayer surge ~~~~~~~~~ My parents sleep Beyond worldly cares; Peace beyond pain ~~~~~~~~~ Here side by side At last you rest; In that sure light ~~~~~~~~~ The living come To greet the dead; All Souls Day ritual ~~~~~~~~~ The candles burn Muffins we eat; Plum wine we toast ~~~~~~~~~ Muffins for mother Plum wine for father; Till we meet again ~~~~~~~~~ We think fond thoughts Death ends brief book; True living continues ~~~~~~~~~ The reaper says: Live well your days Ere death ends play ~~~~~~~~~ Leon Enriquez 08 November 2015 Singapore