Reclaiming Humanity

Humanity is understood less and less 

By the humans of the 21st century

Compassion and empathy, the true essence of humanity

Given a go by , by today's humans 

Who are too busy running to stay in the same place 

Boundaries, walls and borders made by stupid humans 

Are easily crossed over by the joyful birds 

Who would find, odd and strange the working of human mind 

were  they capable to read or access it 

A mind filled with hate, hostility and wickedness 

Seeing all others outside their artificial borders as "Enemies" 

for engaging in mindless wars!  

Humans have forgotten priorities like pursuing a meaning in life

Through philosophy, true religious teaching, self reflection 

 Exploring, inventing and creating , no longer a priority

Where is the time for innovation & creativity when 

all focus is on self preservation & self aggrandizement ? 

The future though can only get better from here 

Humanity will be restored eventually 

For  common goals, harmony, coexistence 

Awareness of interconnectedness are all essences of humanity

Intrinsically tied to the eternal law of nature! 

Whatever the challenges, as borne out by history 

Our resilience and adaptability will see us through 

We will reclaim humanity in its true essence and glory!  

NB: This poem was penned for and recited during the Seniors Today Poetry meet on 28th February 2025.

First Crush: Silly Sweet Memories

Middle aged and grey haired
he went back in time for a moment
to his teen age and its silly thoughts, actions
Had followed her around, often oblivious to her
After many trials, jealousies, heartaches,
Finally, she had smiled, accepted his hand of friendship

He now Smiled, recalling the silly stuff
he had written in her book, bidding farewell
on last day of college....

"I live and relive images
of your tender face on my bosom
as I gently cup your delicate shoulders
-images that give me strength
to keep going- come rain, come sun...."

Yes, silly, perhaps 'immature' as well
yet, its sweetness lingers
to be recalled once in a while
as respite to an aging, tired life...

NB: On the call given by Seniors Today Poetry group to recite poems on "Dillagi/ Infatuation" during our meet on 14th Feb Valentines day, I looked up a poem "Silly sweet memories" written earlier, modified it mildly for recitation on the D day.

An Open Window Once Again!

She hadn't opened her bedroom window

for so long- ever since the pandemic

many advised- maid, friends , kith & kin

yet she was firm, insisted on solitude

a shelter, refuge from the outside world 

After all, she had lost, her beloved life partner to Corona

 and along with that event, all her self confidence 

drive, will to live as well! 

Then it happened in a dream one night 

her late spouse appeared, to assure he was alright

also to urge her to move on, not waste 

a God given precious life! 

as first step "Open the window" he exhorted!! 

Next Morning she opened the window 

to let in gleams of soothing sunlight 

sights of trees, birds and happy humans 

A rebirth, a resurgence of the life within was achieved 

with the opening of the window- Now she can be seen often

 glued to and contemplating on the sights from the window

 viewing pleasure of real life narratives

 winning over those from the idiot box or social media! 

NB: I wrote this poem in response to a picture prompt given by Million Muse FB Group in connection with its January month contest. The poem received a bronze award,