Toils Of Grace Poem by Obed dela Cruz

Not all people understand the work of destiny,
Perhaps because we meet this in different degrees.
I was told a lot to focus on advocacy:
Study and teach, write and speak, honor public service.

But people revel in Sartre's absolute freedom
And, in romance, I made efforts through the years to taste
What a lot of youths get away with and do succumb.
Yet circumstances would always restrain me from haste;

Through dreams, mentors, and frustrations I am reminded
That, for me, love worthy of cherishing and marriage
Shall not be granted until I have paced far ahead,
Far enough to prove that I am ready and well-fledged

As a princely eagle that brings and maintains honor,
Even awe, to the glory of the House that raised him.
But this I am not sure to attain, hence I wonder
If my heart can endure more bridles and still undimmed

By the grief wrought by letting opportunities go-
To have dates, then be loved, held, and kissed back at this age
(Just how permissive Life, for other youths, can seem so)
But not for me. Once more, Life calls me to disengage.

So brace my heart and let self-control increase again.
Love is not forbidden but it has a time and place.
Even if to my waiting others can't say "amen, "
Let my work continue as well as the toils of grace.