IN MY FATHER'S STEPS

Through jungle dark and dense
Interminable, somebre and immense,
Among trees, rising like austere tower,
On and on I follow the quick steps of my father.

Oh, Father! Of hunger and fatigue I am dying.
See how my poor feet are bleeding!
I fear snakes, foxes and tigers.
When shall we reach our destination, dear father?

Child! To you no place on earth offers
Infinite comfort and pleasure.
Our path is not strewn with flowers.
Go forward, forever, though your heart is torn asunder.

I see your tender soles pierced by thorns so prickly.
Blood trickle on to the grass, like ruby.
Your teardrops sparkle like dimond and leaves emerald green,
Such beauty human eyes have ever seen!

For the sake of mankind do not admit defeat.
In face of sorrow, be patient and discreet.

Be happy for upholding high ideals forever.
Go forward, if you wish to follow the steps of your father.

Written by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn