Here are two poems by Sarala, in Different Truths. The first poem, Tranquility, is about seeking and attaining. The second poem, Life is an Ordeal, shows what poverty and sufferings are. Those who haven’t experienced hunger and poverty shed crocodile’s tears.
Tranquillity
Peace is the cradle of tranquillity If your mind is at peace with everything in life you are in the tranquillity zone Always something or other gives worry to our mind I decided I will walk to that tranquillity zone where I can inhale only pure essence of sweet nature I will sit on the green grass bed with my paper and pen and let my thoughts flow like a beautiful stream of love! I will go to the mountain top and sit quietly imagining my creator creating wonders in this world! Yes, for me these are the places where I can be in peace with myself and walk to that tranquil zone with no worries but only enjoying the beauty of the nature! Yes, I achieved tranquillity In the loving bosom of Mother Nature where I lay with all beautiful thoughts!
Life is an Ordeal
Life is an ordeal for many it’s a tight rope walk Like this little girl walking on a rope balancing the pots on her head All for her to earn two square meals a day for her and her parents ailing at home When you sit in your comfort zone ordering delicious dishes, do you think of the hunger the poor are going through? Little children opting for circus and many menial work to feed their stomachs! Some young girls are kidnapped to the red light areas and some opt for it on their own all just for a six inch stomach! They are uneducated and no other work they can opt for accepting washing utensils and clothes at homes, blistering their tiny hands! Sometimes men of the household pushes them to satisfy their hunger for flesh! Isn't it high time something is done to alleviate the sufferings of these innocent souls? Unless a person goes through hunger, they will never realise what’s poverty! All give big talks and shed crocodile tears just to show the world you care! I bow down to Mother Teresa for her compassion for the poor and needy!
Pictures design Anumita Roy
Sarala Balachandran was working with an import-export organisation in the administrative department for 38 years. She retired eleven years back. Married, with two sons aged 43 and 36, she took interest in writing recently. She writes free verses.
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