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 #46 titled Biba Kumple Años. Enjoy!

Biba Kumple Años*

Every year there comes a Special Day
Once a year for each of us
To celebrate our Birthday!

When that Special Day came we knew what to expect
As we would go to Sizzlers to feast and enjoy
And be greeted by a group of jolly people
Who would loudly sing,
Happy Birthday to You! Happy Birthday to You!
As they delivered a delicious treat
Topped with a lighted candle
To make that Special Birthday Wish.

When that moment came
All eyes would be on the Birthday Celebrant
Who would be caught off guard
And literally turn red as a lobster.
Until the singing stopped
And the onlookers turned away.

I still remember those Special Days…
I call it the Sizzlers Moment –
For it’s a moment we shared many times at Sizzlers.
And though Sizzlers is no longer on Guam
The memories will always be cherished
And we’ll continue to create
Other moments at a Special Place
For that Special Day
Held once a year
To celebrate our Birthday!
Biba Kumple Años!
© mnrivera and ltgumataotao

*Biba Kumple Años: Happy Birthday

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