under the dome of the balete

here we are--

one flame
one song
one heartbeat--

amidst the murmur
of the insects;
amidst the chorus
of the breeze,
dancing
with the flowers
in a tight embrace.

here we are--

in this island of the balete
where time stands still;

under its hallowed canopy
streams of sunlight
pass through,
like in the great windows
of the Sistine
and San Marco;
illuminating
kisses, embraces
whispered 'i love you's.

hearts canonized
love sanctified
time petrified

here

under the dome of the balete.