Known for his joyous nature and loved for his personality, my beloved grandfather could light up any dark corner of this world. Even in old age, he had an unshakeable faith and a very vibrant heart, and I couldn’t cherish him more. His positive aura along with my grandmother’s devoted heart, taught me love is sacred. It is kind. It is generous. It is acceptance and patience. It forgives often. It does not boast, and it is not proud. Love overcomes everything and can heal everyone.
To my heartbreak, both of them passed away, leaving the memory of their love for me to cherish. Often enough, when I was just 8 or younger, I remember my grandfather humming a song for me. as he put me to sleep or while I walked with him to the local shop to get bread. So today, I want to honour this vivid memory of him by attempting to translate that song into an English poem.
(May Allah forgive my grandparents and shed light upon them in their graves and make it a comfortable abode for them.)
Upon a person’s smile, my heart bestows,
Their pain, a debt, I vow to enclose,
In my heart, for their sake, love blooms and overflows,
Life’s true essence, this truth I propose.
Though humble may seem my worldly lot,
Within my heart, love’s treasure is sought,
Life spent in love, like spring’s bloom,
A blaze of ardour, not dimmed by gloom.
Even if not believed by others, by faith I declare,
This is life’s essence, a truth so rare.
A relationship built on trust from heart to heart,
Love exists because of us.
The bond of hearts, trust’s gentle tether,
Love’s name engraved, living forever.
Even in death, in memories adorned,
In teardrops, smiles by me be borne.
Each flower to each bud, whispers afar,
This is life’s essence, like a guiding star.
Upon someone’s smile, my heart bestows,
Their pain, a debt, I vow to enclose,
In my heart, love blooms and overflows,
Life’s true essence, this truth I propose.
