Tuesday, May 9, 2017

RETROSPECTION (IN RESPONSE TO INTROSPECTION)

(Dedicated to my Mother Winnie....)



She would lounge on the floor
Reverently by the puja room's door.
She would join my Mother
In her morning and evening prayers:
By blowing in unison, the conch thrice
To ward off evil, pestilence and vice.
She would continue to intently gaze
At the puja alter as if saying her grace.
I would observe her in wonder 
To see whether she was observing the Gods
or whe was gazing intently somewhere younder.
One morning, I silently remained by her side
But made sure i was not within her sight.
My curiosity
When I could hear her thoughts loud and clear.
She looked intently at the idols and images
of the divine at the alter
Her thoughts went out to them without any falter:
I have the answers to your questions to this family
This family, which also belongs to me.
I have witnessed its members face many a challenge
But, they have continued to love me without any pretense,
I have witnessed the humans 
Who represent me in the world outside
Hurt my family members with vengeful strife.
But, the family members have never, ever
Vented their hurt on me in anyway or of any kind.
This fills me with guilt and remorse
And it also robs me of my peace of mind.
Why our lives take such a hateful course?
I am asking you, O, God of the humans,
Why we have to fill our heart with hatred?
Why we have to poison our minds with vengeance:
Considering it to be a seed of guilt  demanding justification-
of our deeds and penance for the lust, negativity and greed?
Then I am guilty of the hatred the family members face
from the humans who represent me
In this big wide world full of misery.
I can sense their sorrow, and feel their agony.
I also cherish their love and care for me.
So, all that I can do in return is love them unconditionally....


 

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