Hazing... (Brotherhood) Poem by Noel Tupan

A man striving for his future,
Betting his life with an intent so pure,
Armed with courage and heart so brave,
Mustering the tactics to face the challenge.

Looking for a sense of belonging,
From individuals who seemed are caring,
To belong there is a price to pay,
Not an amount nor there is an easy way.

Enduring the hardships in life,
Feeling the whips on the side,
Trying to catch a deep breathe,
As hard blows hit the body’s meat.

Is this the prize of an ambition?
To withstand the sufferings of emotion,
To withstand from the hands of cruelty,
Foisted by individuals so feisty.

Considered as survival of the fittest,
Presuming everything is a test,
Unmindful that danger is in the offing,
So naïve of the ideals been embracing.

Perceiving the hopes that eyes discerned,
And someday respect will be earned,
However, gradually clasp with frustration,
As the last breath comes to expulsion.

(09/01/2010, Manila)