Happy Birthday to My Esteemed Teachers*
By: Leni Marlina**
Happy birthday, O guide of our souls,
Today the universe whispers prayers,
Under your light we blossom like flowers,
Blooming beautifully in wisdom and love's rays.
You are a star in the dark silent night,
Guiding our steps with an ever-bright light,
Your patience whispers like a gentle breeze,
Guiding us through storms of unsettling doubt.
In the classroom, you are the ever-shining sun,
Dispelling darkness with warmth of flowing love,
Planting seeds of knowledge deep within,
Watered with care, until they bloom with meaning.
Happy birthday, O noble teacher of mine,
Our prayers echo like melodies in perfect harmony,
May happiness always adorn your days,
May your life be filled with blessings, peace, and infinite love.
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*The poem was originally featured in Leni Marlina's collection in July 2007. The original title in Indonesian languange: "Selamat Ulang Tahun, Guruku".
**Since 2006, the author has dedicated herself as a lecturer at the Faculty of Languages and Arts, Universitas Negeri Padang. She is also the founder and head of the World Children's Literature Community (WCLC). Additionally, she has been an active member of the Satu Pena West Sumatra Writers Association since 2022, and has been involved with the Victoria Writers in Australia since 2012.
