Why Slay Us?
(Poem)
we’re planting your rice
cleaning your sugarcane fields
of wild grass and shrubs
we’re taking care of
your mango trees and vegetables
to satisfy your lips
to make your bellies laugh
we’re working the whole day
toiling on your land
for you to enjoy an abundant life
and be blessed all the time.
why slay us?
we’re your factory slaves
running your machines
manufacturing your clothes
and so many cans of milk
so many bottles of softdrinks
so many capsules of medicines
we’re the companions
of wood, saws and chisels
of cement, gravel and sand
so your buildings rake wealth
we’re also the ones shouldering
numerous unreasonable taxes
that keep on multiplying
to feed the rich and the elite
and for big thieves in government
to always squander and plunder.
why slay us?
we’re your dishwashers
we’re your household helps and cooks
we’re your masseurs and masseuses
we’re your car drivers and laundrymaids
we’re your babysitters
we’re your all-around fixers
doing myriads odd jobs
yes, we’re your life’s support
so you can happily wallow
in wealth and extravagance
and enjoy to your heart’s content
the blessings of this loony world.
why slay us?
we are really worth
your countless blessings
why don’t you treat us
as true human beings
in a virtuous society
where social justice reigns?
till when will you trample
our sacred rights and dignity
and deprive us of a rosy future?
would you blame us
when someday
we opt to mercilessly slay you?
why slay us?
(my English version of BAKIT KAMI’Y INYONG PINAPATAY?)
with
