This poem was written as part of the Pancasila project to strengthen the student's profile with the theme "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" - Indonesia's state motto - "Although different, yet one" - at Kebon Dalem Semarang Middle School. This school is part of the educational work of the Sisters of Divine Providence of Indonesia Province. With this poem, the students want to illustrate the reality of diversity in Indonesia, which should actually be a strength, but is nevertheless often a reason/trigger for divisions.
The last part of the poem emphasizes the hope for a better future. The existing divisions are not something that cannot be changed. With unity and equality, we can create a better future. The poem invites everyone to see differences not as obstacles, but as richness to be celebrated. Only with unity can we feel true independence, not only in terms of political status, but also in our hearts and souls as Indonesians.
Working team of the 9th grade
1. Clarissa Natânia/9B
2. Ignatius Loyola Puji Panuwun Agung/9A
3. Beverly Seveniara Gladys Wanget/9A
4. Miranda Debora Setiawan/9A
In the embrace of the torn Archipelago
We stand under the same sky and look at the sun, which gives light
But why are we still divided, in the same country, suspecting each other
Skin colour is the reason to turn away, religion is the highest wall
We forget where the heart should play a role in appreciating the differences God has created
We are walking on the same path, but some only see the differences
As if life is all about lines and colours, without seeing that our souls are brothers and sisters.
They talk about the greatness of the nation, but they have never learned anything about the vastness of love
In the midst of the noise of their voices, they forget that we are all one.
I want to say, "Don't you see?" how much this heart hurts
To witness the suffering that comes from lips that speak harsh words
In the same room we breathe, but words separate the soul.
Those who see differences as flaws, as if life belongs to only one colour
They say "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika", but why are there still those who feel that they are the best
seeing differences as a threat and not as a wealth that we should celebrate
They say we are friends in diversity, but why do we still turn a blind eye?
They don't want to see those who are different, as if you're dead when you're different
They say Indonesia is united, but in reality, the differences are becoming a divide
Aren't we one in the same story?
It is said that we were independent in 1945, but it is still worth questioning
Are we really independent? When will we be truly free?
When the heart is still bound by division
Under the heavenly sky, two souls drifting,
You're like the dew that greets the morning
I am the sunshine that never tires, united to complete the divine painting
Written in Destiny as Adam and Eve
I remember the colourful times, now everything is Gray
I look forward to the world, see without borders, without sharp stereotypes
If the words "man" and "woman" are disputed, our steps will be stopped.
They say your roles are different because your bodies are different!
But our hearts are the same
But the clouds seem to shroud themselves when roles and nature suffocate freedom
Truly a painful wound that undermines hope and leaves loneliness in the depths of the Self
In the midst of the noise of the world, the heart hopes for unity
Organising the future with determination, knitting tomorrow
A morning free from the shackles of division
The earth inscribes a story in every layer of the soil
The colours of the soul merge with the canvas of the universe
Seizing hope in every breath
Don't let that put you off.
Really, that's just a difference that makes us much richer
Really, this should not be an obstacle for us to be free
This soul of mine desires an equal path in diversity