Ruby

(Young Hooker of Manila)

By Apolinario B Villalobos

A star sapphire glitters in the dark

just when your first cry tore the silence apart

and two faces smile with no word said

but a heartfelt thanks to the God above.

Into this world comes forth

another flower for their eyes and bundle of joy

who there lies for every body to behold

and now your story’s being told.

You’ve trodden enough

roads of stones and thorns so rough

for a woman but you are strong in heart

and full of hope that even the searing sun

could not wilt your will

melt your strength as you go on still

just like the fire

I find in your name.