During an English class at HOME shelter a group of women got inspired by Sri Handayani Sutarno’s ode to HOME, A Masterpiece of Inspiration. They wrote their own poetry to show their feelings for HOME, friends and family and others that have stood by them in times of need.  

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To my Friend

I remember yesterday when I was full of doubts and insecurities.

I was a girl who was always afraid and scared of the coming trials and hindrances.

But one day all my insecurities were gone.

I met someone who helped me to become a better person.

With her care and support she made me strong and confident,

She made me believe that there’s always a rainbow after the rain.

She encouraged me to believe that I am special.

She encouraged me to fight for myself.

She encouraged me to become a better person.

Now I am not afraid to face the challenges I may encounter,

Now I can do anything and I’m not afraid to show who I am.

To you my friend, you are my guide in the darkness and uncertainty,

Like a lighthouse, you lead me to a safer shore.

I will never forget you.

 – By Jen

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To all Philippina Domestic Workers

I remember when I was in the house of my boss.

I was scared, I didn’t know what to do.

I remember when my boss shouted at me, her face when she got angry.

I remember the day she beat me.

With the care and love of my family I became stronger.

With the kind heart of my neighbour I learned what to do.

I am now a strong woman.

I am confident, I always think of the positive.

I know my rights.

– By Juvy

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To my family

I remember the time when I was dreaming of here,

Not for myself but for my family.

I remember the time when I made my decision to come here,

For you.

You are my inspiration,

You are my strength.

With your care I know who I am today.

I am pretty.

I am nice.

I know that I am different from others.

I know that I am smart.

I know I can be independent.

I am able to stand on my own.

I am able to make my own decisions.

Thanks to you.

– By Karen

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 To my friend at HOME

 I remember the time when I was so down.

With your care, love, kindness and support you made me feel comfortable.

Now I am able to do the things I was afraid of.

I am strong.

I have no regrets in life.

I know God is guiding me.

You are my inspiration.

– By Cecille

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 To my mother and family

 I remember the years past when we had so little.

I remember my relatives who I asked for help,

But who said ‘Sorry we don’t have enough food or money to help you’.

I remember the people who pulled me down.

I remember the days when I tried to help my parents but could do nothing.

I remember my mistakes and I’ve learned from them.

With your words of support,

With your love and care,

You have helped to lift me high,

To be strong in the face of struggle.

Now I am able to help others.

Now I am able to share what I have.

Now I am able to do whatever I want to do.

Now I am able to make my own decisions.

Now I am able to speak up.

I am who I am because of you.

I know God created us as human kind.

I know that I and my family are special.

I know that God has a plan for each of us.

You are my inspiration,

You are my mentor,

You are my peace of mind,

You are my strength,

And you are my saviour.

Everyday I value my mother and my family.

You are my life and my love.

 

– Cherelyn

 

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 To God, My Saviour

I remember the days when I was sad and unhappy.

But with the support and care you gave to me,

Now I am able to speak what is on my mind and in my heart.

Now I am able to laugh, to share and to cherish the kindness you gave me.

I am stronger now.

I am happy and will be happier.

I know in myself that I can do more,

I know in my heart that I am gifted

And I know that you will always be there for me.

You are my strength,

You are my saviour,

You are my everything.

– By Jorilyn