ELDER AND YOUNGER (Rasamindrakotroka Andry Tiana)

We still recall you, elder dear,
and you as well, the younger near.
One single blood, a bond so tight,
endless talks through sleepless night.

Ten years beneath our parents’ care,
their gentle shade was always there.
One love alone, one flame so true,
forever etched in all we knew.

Long years endured in pain apart,
far from father, mother’s heart.
We joined our strength, our work, our song,
with words of courage, made us strong.

One school, one path, one shared design,
one bed, one dawn, one morning sign.
Through trials faced, hand clasped in hand,
no sighs were heard, we chose to stand.

Thanks be to God, each one ascends,
each finds the place where his road ends.
And we may say, each life was done,
a shining pride for everyone.

But now, alas, some walked away,
toward horizons gone astray.
So many dreams have bowed, have flown,
into the realm where souls are sown.

Blessed are siblings, strong and true,
who guard each other, seeing through.
Proud, united, without strife,
firm and constant all their life.

RASAMINDRAKOTROKA Andry Tiana
August 21, 2022
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