Poesía

It seems like every November 16 I manage to submit some kind of entry on this blog, regardless of how faithful or not I've been during the year.  Part of my problem is having access to a decent computer.  My personal laptop is an ancient 2005 Powerbook G4.  I'm way overdue for an upgrade.  I think the majority of my writings on this blog have come during some respite in the workday.  Unfortunately, relying on the work computer means I have to give my job the priority.  Lately, I'm too busy at work to squeeze in personal time.  Yesterday, I decided to crack open my dusty laptop for a different writing project that needed my attention.  In doing so, I uncovered this Spanish poem I wrote 8 years ago after the death of my grandmother.  I remember I specifically wanted to try to write another poem in Spanish as I had done for my Tía Nordia in 2004.  I feel that in this journey in has been very important to remember both of these strong and amazing women.  As I search for the aunt I never knew, I am reminded of the grandmother I barely knew and the longing I have to know my family overall.  Despite the distance, whether across the land or far beyond, I will always carry them close to my heart.

Abuelita

No pude despedirme.

Ni un abrazo,

Ni un beso

Nada.

No pude estar a su lado,

En estos momentos difíciles.

Solamente pude ofrecer mis oraciones de lejos.

Una tristeza pesada,

Buscando la esperanza.

Aúnque lejos quedo,

Cerca de Ud. siempre estaré.

Hay millas hasta Nicaragua,

Pero nada puede separar el espíritu.

No pude despedirme

Porque va a quedar conmigo

Mi angelita abuelita

Cuidandome del cielo.

No pude despedirme.

No debo desperdirme.

English Translation:

I couldn’t say good-bye.

Not a hug,

Not a kiss.

Nothing.

I couldn’t be by your side

In these difficult times.

I could only offer my prayers from afar.

A heavy sorrow,

Searching for hope.

Although distant I remain,

I will forever be close to you.

There are miles to Nicaragua,

But nothing can separate the spirit.

I couldn’t say good-bye.

Because you are going to stay with me

My grandma angel

Watching over me from heaven.

I couldn’t say good-bye.

I shouldn’t say good-bye.