In times of celebration, we can witness true friendship. The warmth, the fun, the shared happiness. Bonded by memories past and memories still to be made. This poem by Hmong American writer May Lee-Yang is an ode to real friends. Those who stick by you through everything. The ride or dies. This one is for all of mine.
by HAUNTIE
That I could be this human at this time
breathing, looking, seeing, smelling
That I could be this moment at this time
resting, calmly moving, feeling
That I could be this excellence at this time
sudden, changed, peaceful, & woke
To all my friends who have been with me in weakness
when water falls rush down my two sides
To all my friends who have felt me in anguish
when this earthen back breaks between the crack of two blades
To all my friends who have held me in rage
when fire tears through swallows behind tight grins
I know you
I see you
I hear you
Although the world is silent around you
I know you
I see you
I hear you
May Lee-Yang
Alix in Wonderland 