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By Whichever Wind

Author: Sean Kwok
Year: Hope

Why do we keep moving, every generation a restless band?
Some came by boat, others spirited by waters alone.
They kept their heads low; the skies took to our land
and made us whisper their parting promise.

I went atop the winds of fate
predicated by history and always
doubting, an island of distress
too busy casting the flag of freedom to the flame
than to see me go, as if to dry our tears.

I crossed the oceans of a thousand fears,
embracing neither pride nor pain
as I switch to a higher address.
Too accustomed to the ruins of a home away;
too much paperwork on our petite plate.

Memory serves as a chalice untouched by day
yet as infectious as a laugh in duress.
I felt the peace of night a lifetime's gain
won by those I failed to offer but a voiceless cheer.

But there is more I can claim as my 'ain
as I find others who have been oppressed no less
by the walls of their house and still take time to play.
To the tune of the Tweed, you vow to confess
surprise at every sunset, to bear an open heart again.

By whichever wind, you've carried your truth and let me fly mine
for both homes share the borders of my heart.

Wherever and wherefore I came and am to go,
I promise to follow the winds of life,
for nothing is more undecided,
than whatever our tomorrows would bring.
And we have much we can do together.