Negros

It began with Negros

When I managed to obtain its area code

If only to hear your voice over the miles

Simply to let you know

I was dying in Manila

Because you were not near.



There was promise in Negros

When my persistent longing for you

Finally warranted an invitation

To visit your hometown

To meet your family

To be known as your Other Half.



There was a journey in Negros

One that meant more than that

cross-country trip over sugar cane fields

traversing prawn ponds and black pepper farms

or a whole coastline of fishing villages;

It was embarking on a life together

against all odds… or family wishes



But the end started in Negros

When a planned trip was no longer welcome

When travelling became a tedious task

Or was it just my company that made it unpleasant

The unbearable prospect of being burdened

With my constant presence

was a sad little secret you kept

yet never had the heart to tell me



Still I shall always remember Negros

For what it gave me

And what it took away

It’s white sandy beaches

and cool, green forests

Will forever be a soft memory in my mind

But a gentle aching in my heart.



GPL 3/20/2011