Poem Ko Tokelau

............Ko Tokelau........

Where I am from, I can hear the birds rustling in the trees.

Where I am from, I feel the rough sand rubbing in between my toes.

Where I am from, I hear the sound of the waves crashing against the sand.

Where I am from, the sound of water lapping against the vaka, soothing.

Where I am from, I feel the warmth of the sun against my skin.

Where I am from, as I swim, I feel the slime of the fish as they swiftly swim past me.

Where I am from, the sweet smell of my aunt's famous foods fill each nostril, the best smells ever.

Where I am, I taste freshly cooked taro and chopsuey.

Where I am from, I hear the sweet sound of the laughter and song from the elders.

Where I am from, I smell my aunty as I hug her.

Memories now of the old perfume she poured onto herself daily.

Where I am from, I see the games played by children, and hear the laughter that follows.

Where I am from, I feel the sting of the volleyball as I serve in a ‘friendly’ game.

Where I am from, I see the families daily prayers, a sign of faith and respect.

Where I am from, I feel Love, and only love.

Where I am from, is Tokelau.....

-- Chante Filipo --