TO EACH A DIFFERENT DREAM

(in memory of Father)
You braved the hungry seas
Sixteen
in rags
a little learning
Found a new livelihood
Practised an alien alphabet.
When war clouds threatened death,
You survived troubled seasons
Of gruel
tapioca
wild roots.
The family grew to new demands,
You forged new skills in testing times
Built shelves
cabinets for growing needs
Lavished fountain pens
stationery
books for birthday gifts
not toys;
Taught us to value essentials
Tailor meagre means to proper ends
Let our words be our bond
Work hard
preserve the rites.

I well remember those earnest words,
Spun under candle light
in my childhood
Recall how you stood
Sustained my tribulations;
Remember too
the rainbow of your love.
….Chinese New Year, 1990
This year of the Horse
Ushers in a new decade
Once again
we gather
to offer obeisance
honour your memory.
These offerings
joss and incense
This New Year repast
We share with you each year
Since you departed six years ago.
One goblet of wine
twelve cups
Ivory chopsticks
twelve bowls of rice
Three pairs of fish
broiled pork and chicken
Six oranges

We dedicate these to you
With silent homage
Recalled our collective journeys.
How many more years
Can we foregather
To share this yearly assembly?