Ketangguhan Diantara Dilema (Resilience in a Dilemma) by Sri Martuti
For you, dear family
Ask about your family who have been risking their lives working abroad
Don’t just ask about the deliveries you have been waiting for
Did you know that a few words of greeting from you is effective DOPPING for every fatigue
And you showing your worry is a beautiful song for every sigh and sorrow
Your prayers are a sweet song for every passionate longing
We are fighting for a future and change, so be part of the same rhythm so that our story doesn't just become a dry, meaningless opinion
These shoulders have hunched forward, but hope has never been lost even though the times have crushed it
If this body is valuable to you, always accompany us in prayer every step we take
These hands have longed to hug you, smell the fragrance of your body, kiss the foreheads on faces full of love
We are here, and always here, so let us be a breath to you, which will always be present in every passing
Infinite longing from me, Judy Houyai, a survivor of migration
My greetings of longing to you, soul strengtheners.
I am always missing you.
Ask about your family who have been risking their lives working abroad
Don’t just ask about the deliveries you have been waiting for
Did you know that a few words of greeting from you is effective DOPPING for every fatigue
And you showing your worry is a beautiful song for every sigh and sorrow
Your prayers are a sweet song for every passionate longing
We are fighting for a future and change, so be part of the same rhythm so that our story doesn't just become a dry, meaningless opinion
These shoulders have hunched forward, but hope has never been lost even though the times have crushed it
If this body is valuable to you, always accompany us in prayer every step we take
These hands have longed to hug you, smell the fragrance of your body, kiss the foreheads on faces full of love
We are here, and always here, so let us be a breath to you, which will always be present in every passing
Infinite longing from me, Judy Houyai, a survivor of migration
My greetings of longing to you, soul strengtheners.
I am always missing you.
About the Poem: "The story of the struggle of female migrant workers in Hong Kong who are fighting for their future and their families. They are willing to work far from their families, leaving their children, husbands and parents behind. A pursuit that is not easy, drains tears, pawns your self-esteem and freedom, living in tyranny and kept under limitation. Not all the good stories are shown, but there are more joys and sorrows that have to be hidden just so that your beloved family doesn't worry and is happy."
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