Dance in the Rain

Dear Sage and Sabine, this was taken one sunny afternoon. Those were not raindrops but close. They're from a garden hose.

"I love the sound of your

name on my lips...

The way you convince me

to dance in the rain,

while everyone's watching

like we were insane...

And I love, the way you love me..."

-Ronan Keating

Day at the Beach (June 18, 2006)

Dear Sage, Yes! that's me on a broken surfboard!

It's a long story.

You were enjoying your day in the beach when you came out of the water crying, in pain, pointing at your legs. When I washed it in running water I noticed that it was becoming erythematous. Obviously you were bitten by an insect in the water. It didn't look like a jelly fish sting. You got better after a few minutes with the help of a mild topical steroid. BUT you refused to go back to the water. There was a cartoon/anime program on TV and you said you wanted to watch instead.

That means you have been traumatized by a small insect from Poseidon's domain. I found that unacceptable.

After a few protestations from you I was finally able to bring you back to the beach. Even after I checked the waters myself you refused to dip your toe. I had to do something or you will lose your confidence to swim in the sea again. I rented one of the two surfboards in the courtyard for 100 bucks/ 4 hours. I looked so funny whenever I make those attempts at surfing the waves you finally left the shore to join me in my folly.

We had our pictures taken, together with Sabine.

You're a brave girl, Sage.

Later on, while sitting on the sandy beach I was in such a philosophical mood that I began to compose the "Poseidon Prayer." The one I published earlier in this blog. In those very waters so many years ago I was foolish enough to swim the whole day until I was all alone and had a bout of cramps while far away from the shore. I have no idea how I got back without drowning. I was not really a strong swimmer. But I decided not to let that experience hinder my love for the sea. I won't let Poseidon get the best of me. Not yet. You should not fear him too.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

To Fear the One True God means to obey and respect him. Hence, we must refuse obeisance to mortal tyrants and petty gods- that includes Poseidon too. and a lot of politicians.

I think I must remind you though that you and your sisters must never confuse valor with foolishness. Always be careful. Especially when you defy the gods.

Sabine with Yaya, Sadie, Ayheen and Sage.

Prayer to Poseidon

We meet again, Old Man.
As always, I came to commune- not to worship
I came NOT to edify
I'm here to defy your wishes

Remember, I worship the one true GOD who is neither greek nor roman,
He who chose to be a descendant of the ancient race of hebrew slaves
to free us from mortal tyrants and petty gods like you

But of all the powers-that-be, I've grown fond of you, Old Man.

Each visit to your domain gives me a glimpse of eternity
Each wave that crests, foams, and strikes the shore
echoes memories of my youth
spent probing your depths.

I remember how you almost took me in your bosom
How hard I swam against your unforgiving current,
How you made the riggings of my soul glow with the embers of Saint Elmo.

You tried, Old Friend, and you FAILED

BUT

You alone witnessed the sensual secrets my woman and I share

I know that you will not surrender them to anyone even until fiery Helios welcomes your breath into his arms- eons and eons from now.

So, I'm here again, Old Man.
even after a long absence I have not forgotten.
Ready or not, I'm coming, Old friend.

So do your worst...

you bloody bastard.

-MCGMD, June 18, 2006. Bauang, Launion.

My Girls

To Ayheen, Sadie, Sage and Sabine

First Grade, First day

Dear Sage, this was taken yesterday, 6:15 AM, June 14, 2006.