TO ELDERS AND YOUNGERS ONES (Rasamindrakotroka Andry Tiana)

We remember you, O elders dear,
And you as well, young hearts so near;
One blood we share, in bonds so true,
In tender hours we once all knew.

Beneath one roof, in childhood’s light,
Within our parents’ watchful sight,
One love we held, one faith the same,
Forever sealed in time’s own frame.

Through pain we walked, through distant years,
Apart from those our hearts held dear;
Yet joined in strength, through toil and care,
We sowed our courage, standing there.

One school, one path, one dream, one night,
One destiny that shaped our sight;
Through trials faced, still hand in hand,
No bitter cry—together we stand.

By grace of God, each rose in turn,
Each found a place through trials to learn;
Each life fulfilled, in quiet flame,
A source of pride in work and name.

Yet now, alas, some souls have gone,
Beyond the reach of dusk and dawn;
So many hopes have faded far,
Carried beyond life’s distant star.

Blessed are those of kindred line
Who lift each other, firm, aligned;
United, strong, with hearts at peace,
Far from discord, in strength they increase.

RASAMINDRAKOTROKA Andry Tiana
15 August 2022
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