Hafa Adai! As part of my commitment to continue to share cultural poems relating to our beautiful island of Guam and its people, here’s Korasón Poem #8 titled I Love You Nana. Enjoy!

I Love You Nana

Look at my Nana*
She seems old and fragile.
And look at her now
She’s sweet and wise.
As she speaks it’s not clear English
But you can tell that she’s been through it all.
She’s been through rough times of raising 14 children
And caring also for her husband – my Tata*
She’s now the grandmother of 23
And I’m proud to say I’m one of them.
It didn’t matter to my Nana that I was the 15th grandchild
Because she always made the time
To talk to me sincerely.
I remember the times
When she cheered me up when I felt sad
And for being there when I needed her advice.
Si Yu’os Ma’ase para todos*
I want you to know na hu guiaya hao*
© mnrivera and ltgumataotao

*Nana: mother
*Tata: father
* Si Yu’os Ma’ase para todos: Thank you for everything
* na hu guiaya hao: that I love you

Note: Although Nana and Tata literally translates to mother and father respectively, in this poem they are affectionately referred to such for grandparents, based on personal experience.

Source: Our Native Daughters’ Reflection of Guam and Its People by Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera and Lois Taitano Gumataotao