by Ma. Teresa Baniaga

Created on: April 08, 2009

Expressions of Love

Better is open rebuke than hidden love
The ancient philosopher advised
Love can be shown when Mama rants
Telling me I better wise up.

Dad gets frustrated with my antics
Gives me a piece of his mind
Then when he's cool again
Smiles and gives me a hug.

Back when Grandma called me "little"
She would mend my ripped trousers
Neatly patched them with flowers
Delighted when I could use them again.

Expressions of love in the family
Some are tender, some I call ugly
But at the root of those routine actions
Is tough love I need to perfect me.

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