The Van

Based on Finland 1996
Jasmine — Niin kaunis on taivas

When fall turns to winter, I think of how
on weekdays you would wake up just before the dawn.
Your wrinkled forehead, it was mom and dad.
Smell of air fresh’ner in your van.

You just took me in, made me your beloved son.
Found me in a bin, instantly you promised me:
“I will treat you well, for a name I’ll call you Ben”
“Won’t make you feel alone, again.”

You’d pour wine in a glass, spare all the food.
Your love would make income be just about enough.
People were rude they would ask
“Where’s the dad?”
You would say “Shove it up your ass!”

When I was eighteen, did not have the college funds.
Then you asked me if, teaching is my only dream.
Answered with a tear,
“I’ll go sign the mortgage Ben”
“Just promise me you will dream on, son.”

You hated all liars, told me the truth.
Explained things when I was four, just a little man.
Don’t care who brought me to life you’re my mom.
I smile, my children call you “gran”.

I hope you felt my love, as years would go by.
As life sucks us all in an endless hurricane.
Phone rang the nurse shouted
“Quick, it’s your mom!”

“Please let go now of my hand”
“We’re all dust in the sand”
“Ben, keep driving the van…”