dawn-born bubbles rise
lifting in glass to the sky
an exultant choir—
ringing a sacred mantra
to summon the faithful throng
the soft incense clings,
invisible yet binding,
threading through the mist—
binding spirits together
all sharing a common breath
wind shakes the blossoms
perfume drifts out as a lure
for lone foragers—
coming back with a new dance
a waggle step hymn pathway
one for one and all
though small they rise together
heart tuned to one pulse—
a common proud heritage
ancient unbroken alive
when threats bang the gate
when summer's furnace bears down
wings thunder like drums—
rallying to guard the home
defending their holy ground
let us circle close
songs and breath woven in thread
of effervescence
gracious in our common cause—
fizzing in chalice of light
Puerto Rico has had a long and proud heritage.
A comedian said it was a "floating island of garbage".
Voiced during a rally for a presidential candidate;
this was a comment one can easily hate.
That certainly didn't get any laughs from me.
Such a remark was a political travesty.
This person should keep his mouth in a pucker.
That way, he won't sound like a dumb ________.
(fill in the blank)
from various news sources.
Oh Manila, pearl of the Orient seas
A city of contrasts, with so much to please
From the old-world charm of Intramuros
To the vibrant energy of Bonifacio Global City, that never slows
Your streets, always buzzing with life
A melting pot of cultures, that thrives
From the jeepneys that roam around
To the street food that astounds
The Manila Bay sunset, a beauty to behold
A spectacular sight, that never grows old
The colors of the sky, a canvas of art
A breathtaking moment, that tugs at the heart
And let's not forget your history, so rich
From Rizal Park to Fort Santiago, a niche
A proud heritage, that lives on
A symbol of your strength, that shines upon
In the heart of your city, lies
A historic landmark, that never dies
Malacañang Palace, a symbol of power
A palace of presidents, that stands tall like a tower
Your people, so resilient and kind
A friendly smile, that always unwind
A spirit of Bayanihan, that never dies
A community of heroes, that always rise
Oh Manila, how you inspire
A city of dreams, that never tire
A place of endless possibilities, that never ends
Manila, with Malacañang Palace, you will always be our friend.
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