1. Poem: WAIT FOR ME, MY LOVE
WAIT FOR ME, MY LOVE
By Hoa Lư
Let me embrace you once more
Hold me tight, I’ll offer you half of my heart
The other half stays to guide my mind
To protect our land, drowning in hardship
You stay behind, remember with passion
Contribute your strength, don’t retreat in difficulty
This is love, always remembering you
Even though our love is fragile amidst the flames of war
Not well-fed, yet I remain strong
What regrets could there be...life as a companion in the green forest
Your letter, my medicine, will heal soon
The scars of war that slice through my soul
This farewell, my heart heavy with sorrow
The evening clouds can’t shade us
You know, the next time we meet...it’s so far away
So, my love, don’t let your eyes lose their brightness
No need for many words, my heart understands
Just look into each other’s eyes, they’ll say it all
I haven’t come back yet, but wait for me, my love
I promise to return when victory is ours
April 27, 2019

2. Poem: THE FIRST SIGNS OF SUMMER
THE FIRST SIGNS OF SUMMER
By Hoa Lư
Summer arrives with the sun waking up early
Spreading morning light, the clouds drifting by
The chirping birds play by the hill
The dew vanishes quickly, leaving the grass lonely
Look, a pair of butterflies in the fresh sunlight
Entwined together, in a delicate, passionate dance
The breeze gently blows at the house’s doorstep
The peony sends its fragrance, as butterflies and bees flutter by
The bright green cabbage grows in neat rows
The vivid flowers are impossible to ignore
Nature feels like a gift to me
Peaceful and serene, warming my heart
Summer is here, the phoenix tree still holding buds
Waiting for the day to bloom into fiery red
A vivid red, like a beating heart
Goodbye, my friend, remember to visit the school
Summer has come, the road full of rustling leaves
The tamarind leaves fall, echoing from a distant tower
Every night under the glow of the moon
The sky is clear and bright... the stars leave long trails
I welcome summer... forever cherishing the memories
Of each season, unique to nature
Summer spreads, bringing warmth to every place
Summer’s dryness gives way to the gentle rain
April 17, 2019

3. Poem: YOU...
YOU...
By Hoa Lư
What do you hide in your eyes
When spring arrives, intoxicated and bright
Your gaze is full, embracing me
Love you since that moment
As spring awakens the flowers
The withered grass suddenly bursts with life
You walk gently past me
Your fragrance sneaks through the air
Days pass, I keep them close
My thoughts, locked in verse
My heart waits patiently
The phoenix tree blossoms, awaiting love
The sun kisses your lips, turning them red
I stand still, watching, mesmerized
My heart races, beating wildly
Trying to hold your figure in the empty evening
My love, it's heavy and deep
My heart is tangled in the intoxication of it all
Night falls, my sleep grows faint
The smoke from my cigarette drifts away
I close my eyes, dreaming of you
Autumn comes, I walk beside you
Winter approaches, peering through the curtains
Our hands are warm, entwined together
March 2, 2019

4. Poem: FRAGILE
FRAGILE
By Hoa Lư
The crescent moon, a thin piece of pale light
Leans silently beside the drifting clouds
The sad night... The moon enters my poem
I try to piece together my waiting and my love
Oh, Moon... surely you are longing too
For a love that fades quickly, leaving only dreams
Faded love, half of a forgotten life
The long night, the pillow cold, and distant dreams
Born with a fleeting fate, only wearing red
The spring skies are still vibrant, but my heart is heavy
Looking out, my heart burns with sorrow
You left, forgotten the golden promises
The river and lakes stretch far and wide
Do you remember who waited under the golden night sky?
CRESCENT MOON, A THIN PIECE OF PALE LIGHT
MY SOUL IS A FRACTURED PIECE FULL OF PAIN
March 14, 2019

5. Poem: THE MISSION OF THE GREEN COLOR
THE MISSION OF THE GREEN COLOR
By Hoa Lư
Before us lies a narrow path through the deep forest
And beneath our feet, the mud, which means nothing
Love for our homeland... does the brave heart fear anything?
Even if the path is broken, we move forward for the mission
Parting the night under the stars' bright light
We cross through the storm, the wind howling fiercely
With rifles on our shoulders, we march in unison
On our patrol to guard the green border line
Our bravery like a waving flag, proud and true
We send our tribute to the Motherland
Following the heroic legacy of our ancestors
Protecting our fields, mountains, and rivers
The sacred forest, the rocky path, all are hardships
But none compare to the struggles of the past
Enduring the storms of bombs and fire
And making a mark, causing the world to bow in respect
In our youth, we stand for the mission of peace
Living worthy of the nation's grace
Always aware, following the steps of those who came before us
With all our hearts dedicated to VIETNAM
December 17, 2018

6. Poem: A COLD DAY WITHOUT YOU

A COLD DAY WITHOUT YOU
By Hoa Lư
I send my thoughts to you, in that cold, unnamed place
Each night I gather my emotions
Under the dim light of the moon, through the quiet window
I miss you, all alone in the winter sky
Here, the sky is filled with clouds and endless light
Countless rays of sunlight, but none warm my cheeks
The thoughts weigh heavy, spreading through the rush of the day
I love you so much... I wish I could send you some sunshine
On days without you, please keep yourself safe
Wear a coat when the cold wind sweeps through the door
Make yourself a cup of coffee with milk
And when it warms your heart, that’s when I’ll be happy
On days without you, please don’t be sad
Try to stay positive, find joy in your work
When a woman walks by, don’t even glance
For my heart aches when your eyes stray, fading away
On days without you... I’m sure it will feel endless
What can I do when our two worlds are so far apart?
Please understand, even though we are distant, my love for you is unwavering
For I have loved you... and I will continue to love you, no matter how far away you are
December 6, 2018
COME HOME, MY DEAR
Author: Hoa Lư
Come home, my dear! Visit Hanoi in winter,
Admire the mist that chills the old streets.
Ngoc Son Temple this evening, with a light drizzle,
The bridge's rhythm is damp, and petals fall gently.
Come home, my dear! Gaze at the lake's ripples,
The sunset, solemn, casts a shadow on the Turtle Tower.
Breathe in the fragrance of the milk flower,
Let your soul be immersed in Hanoi's unique beauty.
Come home, my dear! See the Red River's waters,
The fertile silt creates vast, endless fields.
Visit the flower village, vibrant with dreamlike beauty,
Admire the lotus blossoms, at West Lake in awe.
Then, let me take you through the ancient streets,
A hot cup of lotus tea, filled with my affection.
The green sticky rice, wrapped in lotus leaves,
I offer it to you with all my sincere heart.
Hanoi at night, with the sweet moonlight,
At the end of the street, we linger at the moment of parting.
I look at you, overwhelmed by emotions,
In your eyes, love and affection shine bright.
November 27, 2018

8. Poem: THE ONE WHO IS THE PRIDE OF THE NATION
THE ONE WHO IS THE PRIDE OF THE NATION
Author: Hoa Lư
In May, the sun just rising,
The sky clear, with a floating pink cloud.
Thousands of rays shine bright from the east,
Birds chirp, and the trees sway in the breeze.
Kim Liên village! In a time of hardship,
The land and its people shared a humble fate.
Though life was hard, the land and sky were kind,
The fragrance of lotus welcomed "THE ONE" to greet humanity.
In the long months of May, childhood endured patiently,
Witnessing the suffering of a country in turmoil.
Though small in stature, the heart was torn apart,
The mind already contemplated the harsh reality.
With determination, they nurtured knowledge,
Hoping to contribute their strength to the cause.
Unconcerned with hardship or sacrifice,
They sparked a deep love for the nation.
In their youth, enduring countless struggles,
They gave all for the homeland’s future.
For their entire life, their sole wish remained,
A peaceful nation, where people live in prosperity.
They were that one… forever carrying passionate blood,
A steady mind, a golden heart, overcoming oceans of waves.
They raised the flag of liberation for the homeland,
A brilliant intellect that shines through history.
Their name echoes around the world,
Throughout the five continents, the name HO CHI MINH shines.
Talent, virtue, wisdom, and sincerity defined their life,
They sacrificed everything for the country’s well-being.
THE ONE IS THE PRIDE OF THE NATION,
THE LIGHT THAT ILLUMINATES THE DREAMS OF THE FUTURE.
May 19, 2019

9. Poem: THE RIVER OF MY HOMELAND
THE RIVER OF MY HOMELAND
Author: Hoa Lư
I return on a day when early summer begins,
The breeze scatters leaves along the village road.
The soft morning sun spreads over the dike,
The cool evening glow casts shadows of the sunset.
I come back after years of longing,
Grasping my mother's warm, loving hand.
She is as sweet as the cool spring waters of my homeland,
Her kindness as enduring as the banks of the Day River.
Old memories rise again within me,
As my heart stirs with the feeling of summer passing by.
The breeze dances on the river's surface, the waves ripple gently,
I find myself falling in love with summer, the shape of my homeland.
Half a lifetime, tired and wandering far from home,
I have traveled countless roads, chasing distant dreams.
But the melody of the river, full of love and meaning,
Is what I think of whenever I feel lonely.
Return to the homeland! To the peaceful fields,
Where the heart finds tranquility amidst the vast waves.
I feel the desire to see my reflection once more,
To reconnect with my roots beside the river of my homeland.
April 30, 2019

10. Poem: WEDDING GIFT FOR MY DAUGHTER
WEDDING GIFT FOR MY DAUGHTER
Author: Hoa Lư
Tomorrow, my daughter will marry,
Becoming a daughter-in-law in a new home, full of concerns.
My heart aches for you, my dear,
For you are still young... How will you manage your new family?
But I see you always smiling,
Happy and full of love with the one you adore.
From now on, I can no longer pamper you,
No more scolding, only words of advice.
In your new home, be graceful in your behavior,
Choose your words carefully, listen attentively.
Your husband is now your protector,
So remember to heed his guidance and care.
Love and loyalty are more precious than gold,
Live with honor and dignity as a daughter-in-law.
Husband and wife, keep your vows,
May your love last forever, filled with warmth and affection.
Together, endure the challenges of life,
Hand in hand, make everyday decisions together.
Support each other in youth and in old age,
When age brings wisdom, your love will still endure.
Follow the traditions of the family,
Remember my words, for they are priceless.
I don't have gold to give as a wedding gift,
But I offer you my heart, full of love and blessings.
Soon, you'll set off on your journey,
I wish you all the luck and the fragrance of love.
May you have a lifetime of happiness and joy,
May your life be peaceful, and your heart be full.
April 22, 2019

11. Poem: SPRING IN THE ANCIENT CAPITAL
SPRING IN THE ANCIENT CAPITAL
Author: Hoa Lư
Spring arrives, the reeds bloom white
The Ancient Capital glows with pure sunlight
Green shoots stretch across the sky
The mountains and forests beat in harmony with peaceful life
The spring breeze whispers through the vast forests
The clouds drift by, lost in their own thoughts
Vân Long's shores radiate warmth
The swallows reflect on the picturesque landscape of the world
The Ancient Capital is eternally blessed
The soul of the mountains and rivers proves the Kingship
Spring stirs the heart of the homeland
The reeds bloom... “the battlefield is here”
The drums sound, the flags flutter in full colors
The serene temple stands silent and dignified
We, the descendants, keep this memory alive
The incense rises, honoring those who lived before
Spring remains, intoxicated with joy
Our homeland is the most beautiful, my friend
We preserve the high ideals of life
Spring paints the beauty of the ancient world.
February 27, 2019

12. Poem: THE LOVER
THE LOVER
Author: Hoa Lư
My love, I am so lonely
Spring has come, but my heart isn't joyful yet
Valentine's Day may still be sleeping
Waiting for fate to come with a letter's arrival
Speak softly... Or I’ll be left in sorrow
Don’t celebrate when love’s lost in the dark
Wandering alone like a cloud in the evening sky
My love, oh... we have many obstacles to face
Many springs have passed, but my heart has yet to open
It’s still trapped in a deep memory
My heart has not forgotten the shadow of my first love
My mind drifts, never settling down
My love, once more we part ways
When both of us are burdened with life’s struggles
We understand each other... dreaming alone
Still in love, even though we're far apart.
Author Hoa Lư
February 13, 2019

13. Poem: THE NEW YEAR IN A FOREIGN LAND
THE NEW YEAR IN A FOREIGN LAND
Author: Hoa Lư
New Year's far from home, with an empty heart
Alone, waiting for a bit of family warmth
Three days have passed, my mind full of doubts
At home, does anyone mention me once?
The child away in a foreign land, busy with life
On the eve of New Year, thoughts full of worry
Worried about food, work... tears in my eyes
The loneliness presses on my face
Spring has arrived, even here in this strange land
The flowers still bloom, their beauty glowing
But my heart is empty, longing for family
Missing loved ones! I wish we could reunite this New Year
I long to hear the sweet words of affection
But I can only send a quick message via phone
Before I finish, my tears almost fall
Short wishes are all I can offer for now
Life's burdens push me forward, but they are heavy
The road ahead is not as joyful as the songs
Decades have passed without reuniting for a family New Year
My eyes grow tired, my heart aches at the injustice.
Hoa Lư

14. Poem: UNFORGETTABLE
UNFORGETTABLE
Author: Hoa Lư
The road back to my mother's hometown is distant
The evening sky glows red, marking the old memories
Spring arrives, bringing the light dust of rain
The peach blossoms wait, but I can’t return yet
Even though sometimes I get lost in my thoughts
The long journey brings many hardships and sorrow
I force myself not to forget
The love of my homeland remains deeply etched in my heart
Far away, spring comes along the winding paths
The city is full of elegant people, all competing for their place
But I long for my hometown, yearning
The love, warm as lotus flowers in the pond
Whether silently, humbly
Or pursuing high ambitions like a noble king
No place is better than my homeland
Simple meals of rice, pickled vegetables, and fish, filled with love
THE JOURNEY OF LIFE HAS MANY PATHS
BUT RETURNING TO THE ROOTS BRINGS PEACE
January 29, 2019
Hoa Lư

15. Poem: FATHER
FATHER
Author: Hoa Lư
Father is the morning light
Warm and bright, guiding my life
Teaching me to walk on well-trodden paths
Preparing me for life's storms and waves
Father gives me wisdom that knows no bounds
Passing on courage to face every challenge
With virtue, loyalty, and respect for others
Patience and kindness that overcome all hardships
Whether in hunger or abundance, be honest
Honor your teachers, value your friends, for these are true qualities
Don’t waste time on comparisons
Rich or poor, all are equal in the end
Father is the support when I am in pain
He is the bright light leading me forward
His frail body matters not
For he gives all, driven by love that runs deep
For me, Father’s hair has turned gray
His form is worn, clothes threadbare from hard labor
Yet he smiles like a full moon
And though I know he suffers, he never complains
At night, I lie awake, troubled
Worrying for a life that needs more
This is the true meaning of fatherly love
No ocean can compare to a father's journey
Now, far away, I yearn for the home of my youth
To fulfill all my dreams in the embrace of family
Where father and mother give endless love
Father is the sweet fruit of life
Father is the happiness that calls me home
Father is the foundation of all that is true
Father is life, my source of hope and love
December 4, 2018
Hoa Lư

16. Poem: AUTUMN AND THE LONGING
AUTUMN AND THE LONGING
Author: Hoa Lư
The last rays of summer call autumn in a wistful tone
At the end of the road, golden leaves flutter down
My familiar footsteps now feel uncertain
On the narrow path, I hear a lullaby in the breeze
Memories return under the light of the moon
That autumn, purple Lagerstroemia bloomed
Hands intertwined, our first kiss sweet as nectar
This love, forever etched in my heart
The old feelings linger, tugging at my heart
Once again, I walked beside you under the sunlit trees
I remember... your eyes, filled with happiness
We shared a love that felt eternal, like bamboo’s growth
This afternoon, the last heat of summer still lingers
I walk slowly, counting each step as my heart grows heavier
Autumn is coming, and my heart stirs with emotion
I mourn the lost love, the one we could never keep

17. Poem: THE SEASON OF VU LAN..!
THE SEASON OF VU LAN..!
Author: Hoa Lư
As July arrives, my heart remembers my parents
Raindrops fall softly, leaves gently drift away
I remember being small, lulled by the gentle lullaby
Beside my mother, in the warm autumn afternoons
When spring ends, summer gives way to autumn
My mother, her life full of hardship and struggle
Living quietly, never complaining of her burdens
Her body frail, yet she never grumbles
Her whole life spent in haste
Worrying about her children, even when she missed the market
Her worn-out body never regretted the sacrifices
The youthful sparkle in her eyes soon faded
Mother, oh mother... last night, I stayed up late
My heart remembers you like two flowing rivers
All the struggles for food and survival, she bore them all
So that today, I stand firm in life
I pray with folded hands to the heavens
May my parents be at peace, wherever they are
This afternoon, the autumn breeze blows from afar
And I remember my parents, so far from home
August 20, 2018
Hoa Lư

18. Poem: THE SCENE OF THE IMMORTALS
THE SCENE OF THE IMMORTALS
Author: Hoa Lư
The archway leading into the cave rises and falls
The cold gleam of silver sparkles as it’s applied
Shining with the soul of the serene Tràng An
Myths entwine with truth, gently laid bare
The golden rays of evening illuminate the mountain maiden
The still surface of the pond, where boats drift by
Strolling through Tràng An in the evening, when summer lingers
It feels as though I’ve wandered into the realm of immortals, a feeling that stirs within

19. Poem: WILL YOU COME BACK TO ME?
WILL YOU COME BACK TO ME?
Author: Hoa Lư
Will you return to that place with me?
The vast ocean and the endless fields await
The people of Ninh Bình have long awaited your return
Under this roof, our love continues to grow stronger
Kim Sơn, your homeland, is busy harvesting this season
The rice stands golden and firm, its grains full and heavy
If you’re traveling through, I invite you to visit
Come see the countryside in its period of transformation
The wind carries the fragrance of fresh beginnings
The sweet scent of newly harvested rice fills the air
Birds flutter gracefully across the nearby fields
The smell of fresh hay welcomes you as you enter the village
This is my homeland, where hard times have passed
Now, it’s transforming, shedding its old skin
The moss-covered roofs of the past have been replaced with luxurious villas
Here flows the river, quietly pondering its course
It bends gently beneath the embankment, still and serene
Come back to me, and let your heart find fulfillment
Leave behind the stress... and enjoy the joy of kites soaring in the wind
June 5th, 2019

20. Poem: MAY WITHIN ME
MAY WITHIN ME
Author: Hoa Lư
May has truly arrived, ushering in the heat of summer
The sun blazes brightly as the clouds drift further away
The sky turns into an endless expanse of blue
Clear and serene, the morning is peaceful
Ah, look at the breeze moving gracefully
It sweeps gently across the shoulders, leaving a soft pink glow
The swallows dance playfully in the sky
They fly across the boundless horizon, lost in play
Summer has come, with the red blooms of flame trees
The cicadas hum their farewell song
The yearbook fills with heartfelt messages and memories
Verses are hastily written, expressing emotions shared
The nightingale’s soft, sweet whispers fill the air
The hair sways, as promises are exchanged
The schoolyard feels nostalgic, filled with wistful thoughts
The flowers stand quietly, reluctant to leave
May belongs to the earth and sky, a time of its own
The essence is the “sunshine,” and we wait for one another
We will meet again next season, in the schoolyard
The pages are blank, waiting to be filled with our future
May 3rd, 2019

