An early poem and a wakeup for us all to see the beauty in life, overcome worry and live infused with love.
Inspired to write again after 3 years, this one simply shows gratitude to the Lord for things we behold.
Birthday wishes for a good friend of mine. I usually send this out on birthdays along with a fresh poem.
A tribute to mothers, especially mine - "lights that guide us through the dark".
On myself, this tells a personal tale of my youth.
Dedicated to 5 of my school teachers, the poem ends with me yearning to join them behind the blackboard someday.
A plea to one and all to have enthusiasm in life to "flow through our niggles" and be "full of joy" despite the ups and downs.
About babies and how they can soothe our hearts. For my mother Uma.
A message that Hope shalt spring, eternal in the human breast - and that we "live eternal in God's light of love".
For my dearest friend whom I see like a brother.
A plea to cousins to treat each other well and accumulate good memories of "mischievous deeds and healthy fun".
For mentors who "push the boundaries of our abilities", a "chain of nurturers showing us the way".
Beginning with romantic thoughts like "standing under a waterfall beside one you love", this poem ends with a call to have "deep wells of love, for the plants and animals that share this planet".
Love, from a woman's eyes, for her man "whose graceful nature and toil, kept us in abundance and comfort".
About seeing life as a constant effort to Serve God through benevolence to his creatures.
For a dear friend who I "thank for being steadfast in love for those are the very things - that makes us feel not like paupers but as kings".
An earnest plea to love one another "for it is only when we express love that we become closer to our true self".
How the world can be if Builders (Change Agents) were all given a chance to "reshape that stream of activity around us until the possibility of greatness is achieved".
Describes God and the divinity within. A path to "guide the traveller to his journey's end".
For Bethany Nikka Ferret, character in Curious Lives, a bold, young and dashing adventurer - captain of the sea rescue boat - Resolute.
Another poem in the Spirit series, Perfection tells us how life can be when we are inspired - "deep seated in our mind it liberates".
Named for the Jethro Tull song, this poem tells of forests that "give a weary traveller rest", - those of us who "see acres wild, filled with the wonder of a child".
America - On looking back to my time in Bellevue in Nov 2013 and how I was touched by so many people - receiving both positivity and encouragement.
Introducing Tracey (future imagined lover) - a character from Wilbur Smith's Diamond Hunters.
One more of those devotional poems that talks of life, with "experiences so engraved in our minds - emotions that linger in all shapes and kinds".
Begins with a mention of the Indian God of Death - Yama, this one talks of the cycles of life and death - each one ending with a rebirth
For my mother - "with her at my side, the battle of life to fight, saves me from danger, my anchor in any plight"
For Tracey again, this one ends with - "soaring on cupids wings, the couple would reflect - years later, on that love - so pristine and perfect".
A romantic poem in French about how "my days are incomplete without you - the nights without colour and alone".
Another fun romantic poem. This one sung by a friend while the ink was still drying.
Devotional - For Mahakala and Mahakali (the Primal Aspects) - Lord and Queen of TIME. "reveal themselves they do to a few - seers and saints in every hue - to instill in us a sense of direction - to stay the course".
Now the memories are a tad painful... Here's to the love that never was! "spent in spirit but not wistful - for the next time I shall savour with care - every moment that two lovers can share" Did I even savour the next one?
I think of those days I was rapt - "so deep the bond we lovingly forged - feel you beside me our lips engorged".
For a girl I met that evening, sitting quiet and not talking much - "It gets lonely sometimes as one waits - For love to come and flood the gates"
For a dear old friend, in memory of good times and a imperative to "raise our glasses we did in toast - to a life from which we would wrest the most".
For Tolkien et alii - a tribute to books, movies and songs - hence the category Medley. "to rediscover the Flame Imperishable - set in the heart of every man able".
As the poem ends, it makes you ponder "in striving we find we've grown, our hearts widening, - our minds reaching to the far galaxies glimmering".
Ah, to be young and in love again... "methinks a partner is the best thing to keep - in sickness and in health, a spirit so deep - entrenched in your soul"
On the death of my grandmother Vasantha whom we used to call Maa.
For my grandmother again - that carnatic vocalist of yester year. "music was in you its what gave your life soul - soul that rang true as a melody in a bowl".
For my teachers Sri Aurobindo and Mirra Alfassa, written at their ashram in Pondicherry. "We seem on the brink - of total annihilation our pilot extinguished with no time to pause and think - to follow our highest right as dictated by that voice from within".
Lost in time... "a love that engulfed us - through storm and rain that love animated me and was - a bulwark against the harsh world, cozy and secure".
Dedicated to Richard Bach, ispired by his character Stormy, who with her partner Strobe work to teach children by "Open[ing] their hearts to the glee of boundless flight - Supporting them so dearly with all of our might"
9 things I learned by loving 9 different women :). Written with a hope to leave the past in the past and look to the future...
Wedding Vows (as to be expected - there wasnt even a girl on the horizon when I wrote this :p)
A poem in French about the animals and animal characters in my (younger) life.
I was thinking about my father and how often we'd like to "Go Back" in time, especially when as we grow, we find relationships with loved ones strained.
At every death, there is cause to pause and reflect on these, it helps put living in perspective and to celebrate the time we have (left).
For Bharath's son Tejas as I saw him when he turned a year old. "Strewn with moments sublime - An act of love, scented with caring - For all whom you meet and enliven".
For people to explore and embrace their religious identity and "Do not sink to the level of the stereotype - Rather rise higher than the clouds above - Reach heaven, and touch God's face".
A medley - Dear Lady [Can you hear the wind blow] [Led Zeppelin]. A tribute to the [many] love songs quoted from below.
Another medley (a few love songs). "Hold me in your arms for just another day - I promise this one will go slow - Ah memory, guess you'll have to do"
A somber reflection on death. "Precious is each minute and content he - Who fills each one with sixty seconds - Worth of distance run".
When I fought with a dear friend and asked "[Is there] No setting aside our cloak of bitterness?- Can you find it in your heart to forgive? - This madness that is my despair confounded".
Based on a weird dream I had... For that passing ship that brought me Sleep Eros.
For animals and their power to intervene for us. "A grace from above that warms deep within - And touches to our marrow - a life truly blessed - To live on this Earth and on verdant greens run".
For my Teacher - "Love me you did for all of mine upto now - My turn to spread the love I learnt from Thou".
For a girl I used to be fond of. "Like two ships passing solemn in the night - What happened to our love that gently faded from sight".
For a friend's mother, on her birthday. A lady with unshakeable faith (Bhakta).
For the Beatles Song "In My Life" and a short reflection on an early love of mine. "in love for the first time - A woman to ride beside in any sort of clime - Who looked at me to the depths of my very soul".
For a friend from days past. Romanticized version "My inmost mind only you can read - As I find a joy that you can relight".
On the strain in relationships. "Why do we lose so consistently - When there's angels among us - Seems everything weve ever known is here - I never wanted it to die". That last bit from GnR
On Peace! - for Gene Rodenberry, creator of Star Trek - an imaginary future where we have conquered the lower tendencies and lead the Life Divine, beig kid and consisderate to one another.
A well of love - "What of thou and I? where on Earth shall we begin? - To continue some connect, discover love amidst the din".
Begins by addressing Tracey, a future love, but becomes an address for this friend I fell out with.
Rather Disjointed... Like the title says, its babble. If you ask, I can explain all the references. "A void thats no void at all but throbs in wonder - Creation, all of it - such cosmological splendour".
Too much romance for one night. But the flow is coming better. Wait till you reach 2020 :)
For the Indian Trinity - shivA, vishnU, Maheshwara (AUM). "To love our neighbours and set all lower tendencies aside - Burn our ignorance with the awakening of the Guru inside".
On Rape (not the excessively brutal kind). After we are done judging each other, gouging the others eye out and breaking their spirit, there I stand, waiting with loving arms to embrace all of humanity. As Rumi said... Beyond the rightness and wrongness of things...
Me telling the tale of a couple - "Rebirth they found together, a baptism in holy rivers - Fair they made this world showing God's work amidst the diverse".
Am slowly getting used to writing with words from other people. "Passion drives us - it's what makes the journey worth the while... Belief in oneself, trusting the outcome - even when we stumble".
Paraphrasing Bryan Adams' Star in this line "Dont give up, dont look back, theres a silver lining, its out there somewhere - We need a shining star to depend on, so shine forth and find the star in there".
Too bad it was all imaginary. "And in that winter, beside a warm ember - That hearth of ours where we make love - Meld our bodies till all our worries dissolve".
"Heart to heart, body to body. A torch - To bear testament to the love we share - In all the seasons with us without a care".
Romance, too much time on my hands late at night. "still they wanted to be - Finding a bliss like grace from our maker above".
Imran (written backwards). "Queer his friends regarded him - a nutcase but good hearted - Who dreamt to change the world lest his dreams be thwarted".
Fiction, for a couple in love. "A surety that his love would stay on target, unerring as a dart - As close as two friends could get, there from the very start".
For Simon of GoodCountry.org, a poem on unity. "I saw the world as one one night - No more wars, no waking in fright - Long and hard we had dreamed - Wake up and unite, we screamed".
Woman of yester dreams. "And how that love runs true in every fibre of our being - A being that echoes the fragrance of the cosmic scene".
A different perspective on domestic abuse. "I saw the boy behind the monster crying out desperate - To be held in someone's regard, again by life to be tested".
About the indian festival of light - Diwali from the epic the Ramayana. In the end, I mention Tolkien and his own epic, oft read and deeply moving.
Wonder, for a very special woman. "hear an old clock chime - As it turns midnight with the promise of turning dreams true - Dreams you held on to for a long time, that reach out and touch you".
For a friend. "Watch as yon fledgeling finds some heaven in the sky - Straps to pull us up when life boots us in the backside".
Jointly, Outside Auroville. "Come back and let's build that tomorrow - A vision so fierce as to fill our marrow - Remember our true path as once we were led - Blood sweat and tears, so easily shed".
Jointly, Sons of God - wake up and life the Life Divine. "Why does none fight for the very principle of right - Sons of God wake up, live the good life and in might".
Filled with positivity and an impelling towards action. "The man of purpose never falls from the virility of youth - Builds a life that exemplifies virtue, nixes the uncouth".
So much romance, so little remains... "Caricatures of nymphs and angels you bring to my mind - Making my inmost fantasy of you in every shape and kind".
About Agape (The Love for all that Consumes). "Things desired for all creatures great and small - That reflect the spirit of the God who made them all"
About the soul in us all - title inspired by the Clarkson book "I know you got soul". = "Our creator asks us only to be mindful of his majesty - Which is without and exceeds the universe so let him be - Chained to us"
On finding a higher purpose than war. "We've always killed the very best of humanity... Where men gather together to teach Love's gospel - Come let's unite now, cast together our own spell"
Think again Imran! "Methinks we're destined to be utterly entwined - A love that engulfs us both, holding us enshrined".
About Agape again. Love for all of creation. "Father, lover, friend, teacher daily your face changes - As we find new expressions to simply love in all hues".
Live Valiant! "Guess I should, if I could go out and fight - For the victory of Good - fight with all might".
Written together by 8 healers who follow Louise Hay. "I experience the beauty of the universe with love and joy - I set out to win it all with a loud yell of ahoy".
Inspired by the Kenny Roger's song We've got tonight. "Lend your love to me tonight for love we want to share - Make every minute count as into your eyes I stare".
Short Romantic Poem. "... That makes my heart flutter ever so soft as at dawn - When a million buttercups open and birds begin their song".
With members of Lodge Mt Charity - a very special poem written with some very elevated friends.
A cause to reflect on another's pain. "But in my heart I think I'll always know strife - As it ruins loved ones, cuts like a knife".
Wondering if I can ever be as cool as my father. "As time and again I realise he is the best of us - What can I say except papa I'll do my best in life".
Another Romantic Poem that caught me by surprise. "A fount of blessings from which to divine - My way forward, oh you like summer wine"
About that cosmic divine. "As Kala and Bhairava does He make ours - A place of surpassing beauty, enter our nests - And reveal Himself at the Kernel of Bliss" (Anandamayakosha).
Poem to a loved one. "feel sweet and smooth - And complete as we set out to hew a way - Be sure to learn fast as music we do play".
Introducing a [then] current interest to a dear old friend. "Whose smile could lift my mood, make me go around - Any obstacle that life threw at me, peace pervaded me".
Full of feelings, this one after accepting that we could just be friends. Maia (divine race) of Tolkien. "When do we get back to when our lives had art - As on afternoons we spoke happily with nary a care"
For a friend who was feeling low and despondent
Looking back to the past and letting go
For that platonic friend of mine who suffered distance too
A friend I've written on friendship about before
About 2 children, named after Enid Blyton's characters
For a friend's mother - griefstruck her family was when she passed away in 2011
Small bit of prose written on my father's last birthday
THRK - For a friend who was abused at a tender age
Thanking my father for being my beacon of hope and source of refuge
For a past love - Yesterday I remembered you [memory]
It's time to get the mix right, then explode like dynamite!
After losing my father
For a couple I know. Begins with some random stuff
For a newmade friend and mentor
For that couple again
About people we shouldn't wanna emulate
I wonder if we will see the splendour of friendship forged strong enough to ride the storms of any weather.
In French
A long note on not caring about the world or feeling down but to let go the thoughts and HEAL.
What wonder its been to have your love shine on me.
So much romance, so little remains... "Caricatures of nymphs and angels you bring to my mind - Making my inmost fantasy of you in every shape and kind".
For Pranav - "Advaita I wish will reveal its secrets to he who holds the primal sound... And see the other side as Ananda leaves us spell bound"
All i have to beis pliable at a well-wishers touch.
Thank you for a lifetime,come and lets have fun.
Me the apple of her eye,she certainly my tether.
Fill our hearts with peace and warmth - lord lead the way - help quell the turmoil, release us from the bitter fray.
I cry now when I think of those fifteen years, how you showed how deeply you cared.
Bless me father for i purport to build a field of dreams,i wish to srve with arms wide,so grant me your grace.
With Abigail S
I feel tender loving care for every last of earth creatureslet us all join togetherand be the world's teachers.
"I'm glad you won me over as you stood the test of years... I now let go of my fears and grow up, enriched by my tears"
So verdant they are that my heart is set a tingling... I feel a love emanating for all of God's creation... The night sky and silvery moon sets me singing... With the smell of Earth and Nature, I feel an elation...
About corrupt politicians
In Ramzan
Some people sleep alonenot taking a lover to bed - when will I stop this jukebox,find someone to wd.
I thank her for her words of wisdom from which I keep remembering that life is best lived with utmost feeling.
Another loss i cannot bear,my eyes go moist and teary,but he 's lived a full life-brought comfort to the weary.
It wasn't till the last four yearsthat i spoke of being broken upon the rocks of life,was when i sensed your strength.
The poet and his loved one together discover their inner selvesand set an example to others what to treasure in humanity.
The best way to lead is by example, so remember to intervene with kindness and patience tiill the lessons are clear in the wrongdoer's mind.
One day I hope to understandwhat it is to be a father and also to take the loss of your near and dear ones and not be devastated.
Show them how to constantly drive
Saakhib - Rules abound that bring out the best social order,guided by an inner peace,there's rarely disorder.
some friends make life something to look forward to,don't evergo again.
You do help people walk boldlywhen they falter,your goodness shines bright 'helping them alter.
I am more mindfulof my thoughtsnow,I pray all the time that things will become better.
There's things I never learnt to say or see but papa, I am grateful for all that I got from Thee.
You fill the role of an honest ,insightful well-wisher,you 've helped me rethink my ideas so thy can last.
I sem to falterlord,do show me grace and the strength to go on,fight a little every day.
Incidents like these give us pause to rflect on thingsand remember how precious life is to one and all.
I saw a cat on th e terrace ,i wanted to shoutwith delightfor i love animalswith all my heart.
Canada, help us take a giant leap forward, and dream, until in delight we scream.
let your dreams hold sway,be prepared to go the distancefor then will life have deep resonance.
Touch and tasteeach feeling and I promise you'll find that life is worth living.
Going down memory lane I recall my happy moments with my loved one,and knowing now that she will not come back,move on and not despair.
the Dancer within
Written as a friend and I set out to build a company and "let's boldly set out to see just what it is we can do, to leave this world better, like a whiff of mountain dew"
A medley written for Robert Redford telling his story from the point of view of his movie titles and characters
Ramesh Jagtiani - A moving poem written when a friend's father passed away - a caring gentleman who was a source of delight to his friends and community
Written on All Soul's Day after a visit to my father's grave. For grieving families everywhere.
For a friend, now turned healer - "I say join her even if your body and will are broken, with healing hands necessary to make you whole - she'll strive non stop"
One of the last romantic poems I would write for a girl that filled my weaking moments for a long while, thought we were never together as the poem suggests
Inspired by a Tolkien story about a painter Niggle and how his art transformed the afterlife
A touching poem about my mother and how I ask her to "Grant a poet his place in dreaming of tomorrow"
For four very dear friends who wished the best for me and how its time for me to stop playing the victim and instead come into my own
...
Dhala Sr - Written from the viewpoint of the dear departed, comforting us that death was just a passing. "Know life as wondrous, full of it's ups and downs - Be inspired to live in the memory of loved ones - Our Maker you will join one day, so try and find - Your rhythm in this life - just quieten the mind"
A poem that begs us to brood not in the past (when we were in love). "I know its not easy but on letting go, we're choosing life - And not dwelling unnecessarily on highs from our past - Letting go is healing, the past cut away as by a knife - Instead we focus on the now and build a future to last"
A poem for my co-founder Sundaram and the company we hope to build
For 3 friends who are all finding themselves in difficult / estranged relationsships
In gratitude for Teachers, with the hope that ill make a good one some day.
For a dear friend on the occasion of his book launch.
About how a poet can listen, evoke feelings and help cure the maladies of the world.
Underscores the need for warming to each other's troubles and dissolving boundaries. Dedicated to the Father of the Indian Nation.
About a kid who wants to be a teacher and joins the fray - the fray to yieldmore.
If evolving is a struggle, this poem sees me coming to terms with my part as an observer, not a doer. The vanguard or fountainhead of human progress.
On how a brighter future is possible if we let breathe the sensitive side inside us.
A mashup poem on the joy we can all face as I write snippets on different friend's walls.
Incomplete poem about my best friend and his wish to be reborn a puppy.
Jointly written as an engagement gift for my cousin Shoaib. They both very sweetly wrote their own poems with the words we chose to write with that night.
In gratitude for teachers and they joy they must feel watching their wards grow.
A poem that touches raw on the feelings spouses go through when theyre rejected and have little chance to reflect on their own feelings.
Written for a friend who had just given a presentation on the Bhagaavd Gita, that vehicle of Old Indian Wisdom.
2020 with its pandemic in perspective - "We're done with the old ways of utter callousness and unfeeling... Being cooped at home, we've gotten past crazy and begun healing... It's a little rough but we're now starting to appreciate family... There's been friction but we learn to enjoy the other's gaiety"
For a friend who was feeling low, in the hope that he will cause a change in the trend.
Written the day we performed special prayers, our spirit is to: "We stand apart in our promise to deliver a high standard... Of quality, we work hard to give what we said we would... We're quick to support a colleague, we're never wayward... Instead our concern for living beings touches as it should."
How I look forward to knowing you better - "Stand forth to center and be called out in loving honour... You stand tall, dwarving us with your immense stature... I've been jaded by the wall of pain that surrounds all... The people I love, perhaps it's my turn to stand tall!"
Ah, dear Soph - "No matter whether they seem they will engulf you in sadness and terror... There will come a brighter day when you will smile again and move on"
Written as I painfully miss my dad and want to have him back so we can both "serve humanity" as we individually strove to do so.
On a WhatsApp group, I began with "I joined a group of people - we all shared one thing in common... 'Twas a love of words, words that spoke to a body's heart... We drenched ourselves in poetry for that fueled our imagination... We'd speak of the human condition - this dialogue was our art"
Same Group - "I swear to thee, this above all... We need to learn to stand tall... For this world needs giants again... People who serve with no thought for gain"
Written in the horror of seeing a youngster playing shooting and killing games, I was reminded of the Robin Williams movie Toys
Ah, the thrill of meeting a kindred spirit - "Did you grab the opportunities that came your way to express love... Did your heart sometimes expand and soar up to the skies above"
For my parents - "So fragile our dreams when we know not the way... Today, I am cleansed and freed of a self neglecting past"
Yavanna - Garden reminded my of the Mrityunjaya mantra and God begging us to have a "victory over death by being in the present... Being ready to leave, grasping onto life which was heaven sent"
Written for my mother as I come to terms with a grumpy past - "What we all need is a little more patience, understanding and love... We need to plant these as seeds and saplings in Mother Earth's grove"
For a friend and her son who "We're a simple folk, firm as bedrock is our faith in the One... Who will show us a way, help us bid our past a firm adieu"
Thinking of the women I have loved. I try not to let it show, but theres pain all over. "A friend with a silver tongue wished me good company... But that ended in disaster, I have since willed my way on"
About a mother and son who "Together they help people find a way out of any malady... That wisdom or vidya is her gift to times such as these"
About the same mother - "My prayers that you grow into a source of delight soon... A girl I saw a spark of as her healing put us on the moon"
Wriiten when a matriarch was called to Eden above and how her Umbrella continues to protect her family.
Romance: "I can love you forever, show I'm made of tender stuff... As causes a symphony of joy to course within you... 10 points lover, and let each day bring me nearer to you"
Thinking of me the programmer building an app a whole country could use - "Think of transparency, mutual good will and sincerity as paramount... And imagine if technology could in this serve as our mount"
About knitting memories inthe tapestry of lives,this poem tells of granny who lived through ww II but whose spirit remained unconquered till the end and who left me a number of things each of which rekindles a treasured moment
Help our kids develop their talents,smoothly change their gears.
Look to your lordand let hisheaven manifest faster.
To explode into action, fill the void and be merry in any weather.
I'll help you instead of reeling from the light.
The call of birds weave their bright magic upon our soul, the city couldnt mend us but now out here we're whole.
The farm has an old worldand rustic charm, a certain serenity about the place.
There's gaps in the attention we get from parents when we grow up and there is intellectual chasms and bridges to cross.
Seemingly disjointed, but a record of ideas from my cousin, woven into thoughts
I keep planting seeds of brotherly caring,but it falls on deaf ears,dont they cry at another's grieif, one that's so painful.
When losing a parent, we hit a new low and our feelings get all jammed up. How will this raw grief bring about a catharsis for us?
it will stop us all from just going through the motions Instead grind us all until we've made our kid's life into bliss
I've searched for a woman to love till eternity,now tim to discover what is serenity.
I wish more of ou friendswould grassp the essence of life,learning to live it most merrily.
Pandu - I often think of this noble soul who orchestratd the highs of many a person and team.
last year i prayed that you be strong and resilient with no quit in you unbreakable like adamantine.
Run on Empty folks, the time is near, when all we need are the unfettered mind and a fierce valiant spirit.
He'd a special work that to the lord would redoundthe timeless work of the GITA,UNITING HIS ONLY MISSION.
Imploring us to fashion things with our own hands and be filled with passion - for that is when spirit arises in matter.
Then came Rappo who, with concern gave us a leg up Provided our basics so I could learn without hiccup.
Dont worry dear parents, all things are covered in the grand circle of life.
Have faiththe game is not overyetand beg that deep within-your heart courageously holds sway.
Remember our time is short,so spend it well,let our children dance in the light,weave a spell.
When losing a parent, we hit a new low and our feelings get all jammed up. How will this raw grief bring about a catharsis for us?
I worry about you sometimes ,hope i can be therein some small way,while you do your best to be well.
Like the masters say - we should FREE ourselves from all LIMITATIONS and SOAR ON HIGH in SERVICE to the DIVINE.
When losing a parent, we hit a new low and our feelings get all jammed up. How will this raw grief bring about a catharsis for us?
If life is a test, we need to up the ante and SOMEHOW learn to lead a FULL LIFE, letting the past go and fighting to get into gear.
A painful reminder as to how many lives we are losing in this pandemic and how we feel each death so poignantly. Ends with a word of comfort to those in the line of fire.
For a dear friend upong the loss of his uncle... Triggered a powerful emotion and thought for all the people we love and the longing to be reunited with them.
For an aunt who has few rivals when it comes to devotion and poise. And how I want her to inspire my students to live in God's Peace and Love.
About a friend whose stood by me "we barely know how to cry... And wash away the nightmares in our dark past... Has the time come to grow in the light at last"
For a newly met friend while contemplating on the divine and what life has in store for those who serve.
Using the Imperative - "Hey You", this poem addresses humanity from the viewpoint of 5 different spiritual figures.
With an aside to the sorrow and grief I've seen, I finally advise the dedicated to "Know that in the end you'll find the way back to God - Upbraid him for neglecting you"
Embodying a future spirit, this poem speaks of desirable qualities, offering hope that "just when your faith is flagging, an angel appearing... Out of nowhere will give you a boost and you the pinnacle will surmount"
Written for my French Teacher, 25 years after she began to teach us in school, this poem soon to be translated to English
Written with a friend as reminder for him / all of us to be kinder to ourselves as we celebrate our children's lives.
About a long awaited rain - a plea and prayer for it to fall - but with romantic overtones
A from the heart confession about my less than perfect self / appreciation for the family that loves and supports me.
Another realization with regret that I can be a better son / nephew instead of neglecting / being gruff and terse. Ends with an imperative to "drop what your doing and show family LOVE not fuss"
As a friend comes to a crossroads, my trying to give her courage and resolve. Happy to say shes already well on the mend.
To sum life up, I simply say "To know her pain is also to know her high - ya? So try to dig deep for her buried treasure"
A tribute to the nearly 30 girls and women in my life, weaving them into a single tapestry, seemingly addressing a single / a few people.
As I hit "ground zero" at ByTwo Studios, this medley sees me trying to set words to the tune of 5 different Pink Floyd Songs
For a helmsman who navigated his company through the COVID.
I want to break free but it seems I lack the nerve, lead the way, help me on green pastures to serve.
After all what fun is life unless we have each other as tether.. So make a stand to uplift each other.
Rise we then from ashes, but fall we shall to dust - have we come full circle?
I want to break fre but it seems i lack the nerve, lead the way, help me on green pastures to serve.
Random thoughts from the parents and brother of a friend on his wedding evening as I drew them into intimate conversation
About the old indic thought of gradations in colour of the modes of nature in people. Written for a friend who is researching it
Written for my friend's best friend and life partner, with much feeling and good wishes
Written about the story a friend and filmmaker had just made about compassion and forgiveness in the atrocities of war
Flow of thoughts at a Yagnashala or place where a ritual offering was being made to the divine, and a friend was addressing the students there
Written for a young girl who wants to turn healer and trying to offer her some perspective
Thoughts at a sacred place where children are being taught vedic hymns and in conversation with one of their teachers
As my friend marks her mothers first death anniversary, written in the first person with immense feeling
For another friend who misses his father and thinks of his own mortality, realizing the "the best part of life Is over"
About the steel we find in people and how they, as a brook, goes on calm and serene, gathering the rain, even the unclean
A random feel good poem I wrote about myself after a long chat with a dear old friend
A sudden yearning for a girl I once knew and how maybe in an alternate lifetime we could have had a future
Feeling lost, I soon pick up my spirits as I think of my gurus and their legacy
Another fiercely romantic poem, I this, I say "Do come back and abide in these lonely arms that ache for your Touch"
Sometimes the poet misses to catch the sentiment because of the stereotype... This about a parinful youngster who'se missing her father and whose family is drowning in sorrow over it. Glad to say, its not the case in this one valiant family
I'll let this cute line invite you to this poem - "I remember clarion clear your hands upon my cheek - clasping, as we set out to make Hermes and Aphrodite blush at our verse"
The poet and the friend keep chatting as she complains about her "mate" and he offers different perspectives, for hes seen this couple up close and knows what they mean to each other
I very short sentences, this poem is best summed up in this line "We are not here overlong, so sing out loud and strong"
Written for a friend and engineer, as she steers her dynamic alumnni team to the background as they make way for a new one
For a friend on his engagement, a request of the world to "stop" and take cognizance of these two youngsters falling in love.
Offering some sagacious advice to a friens, "know boundless and uttermost delight - Strive on until the kingdom is won by your toil and your might"
A note to a friend to enjoy life and life true to his inner calling as he lives a family life and raises 2 boys.
Crazy thoughts as I come to terms with what a dear friend meant to me who left this world altogether too soon.
Begun with lines by John Denver, this poem sees me going back to earlier notions of having a "Tracey" in my life - a name from the Wilbur Smith novel Diamond Hunters
About fighting for truth and Mother Earth, this one ends with a strong call to have a day "glorious as we dreamt. When we decided to fight for good"
A word of comfort to a dear friend to whom I say "Think of the secret of life, as new fields you sow, and water with your blood, sweat and tears"
For a friend's daughter Taara, 4 years after her elder brother turned the same 1 and I was there to capture the atmosphere
For a dear friend on the occasion of his book launch - with a plea to all to come, help build and then live in a "Common Planet"
For a friend to dream and dare and in thanking for making me feel loved again, as we set out to "remind the world what it always knew - that acts of caring never go amiss"
About the important role some of us men play as Heroes in our children's lives - "We all feel a warm glow as you enter the room and greet us" - now go, have a ghand ball.
For a friend's friend as we welcomed here into our warm and light hearted circle
With pain, now gone, since I spoke about it and wrote Clarinet. Am almost mended now, though it caused much pain and anguish for many years. "I sincerely pray for peace for those warriors who wrest With life as her very future lies in the balance, now rest"
For Reuben, Sandeep and Harry on the death of their friend Manish Aneja, written from the view of the poet, addressing the dear departed.
For a dear friend whose very peaceful future was and is being threatened. I do not agree with her decision not to go down with guns blazing, but respect the strength she has for choosing that. "My advice to you, all friends - is to just recover fast and keep moving - we know this life as bumpy, yet chose it, so make it one of giving"
Thinking of the giants and personae (characters) in my lifetime reading fiction, I dedicated this to a friend who helped me mend. "I wait for the never ending story to lead a way out of hell, As I promised the Empress I'd create something special".
Thinking of the Nature of people and the watchwords needed to build the promise of tomorrow, this blank verse poem was made from words given by a friend and mentor.
A sequel to the Bayonet, this hope for all that can be good in life again as I evolve the thought with a dear friend.
Another poem inspired by my Gurus, on the special day when I visited the city they sanctified and hallowed.
A heartfelt thanks for those who dare to build a brighter tomorrow. "we'll joyfully burst out in song. For mankind will have survived his adolescence, will finally belong - In the timeless halls of tomorrow".
For a friend as she graces a wedding wishing the very best to the couple, as we tried to articulate that "though life is sometimes gonna bring a low. Take the good with the bad, there's no other way - than to embrace the moments, as dreams hold sway."
For a friend who was nearly at term, in memory of the wonderful vibes she created online.
Again a romance, written in French for my "would be".
"Instead walk in your shadow, fight at your side, retrain my thought... As the warp and woof of my constructs undergo a metamorphosis... And comes out refreshed by the tender and sheer force of your love."
"So follow the impulse in your heart dear soldier, extend the olive branch... And let a new spirit of oneness take hold of this planet."
"All my life I wanted to find a girl like Stormy, who like me would want,.. To delight the world's children, and with our combined voices, enchant."
Written for a poonal ceremony of a friend's nephew Arjun
Written for my boss' birthday - "You balance hardcore tech savvy with empathetic, but that's not odd,.. Rather it's endearing, for you always wish us well, help us feel sated."
Birthday gift for a spirited friend "why not teach Our children simply to dream of a brighter tomorrow and then how constantly to reach? For the stars and baulk not at the challenge of building that vision"
"He's done with the old life, it's time to plan and be more effective, As friends tell him he's worthy of being counted with the rest."
"Wish for different times, and that we'd strengthen anew... Each other's voice, guffawed into the night as the dew... Evaporated and gave way to a resplendent dawn bright,"
"Just a change in our outlook as we ride the escalator to heaven... I may seem old and haggard, but I tell you I've much time well spent, In daring to plot the reform of tomorrow, plant a veritable Eden."
"You've meant a lot in my life as I'm sure you've helped redeem a few... Let another year pass and we will have spent a dozen well.... Now go drink from the cup of life, and let jangle your bell!"
"I'd recall to you my story of love and friendship, still hopeful... That you'd one day realize I was simply in your spell"
"I can't think of a gentler soul though firm... To reform heaven, help them cut through the tape... Find the supreme secret *1 as we'd cast away a drape"
Written for a friend, the day they stormed the Sri Lankan President's house, demanding his resignation
For my school teacher of 6 years who dreamed of a lot for me - things that are slowly coming true, and my feeling for my mother to continue the cycle of love.
At the crossroads of romantic dead ends, this poem sees me letting go of the past and making way for what would become "dreamy"
The first of 15 poems for a new muse, this one has me saying "I'd reckon the years by the stars you'd pull down, and my words, that whisper love in the light of dawn."
As you touch my hand and let our love light up - The skies as sparks fly from our skin, a deep cup
It's only in your heart that I would dwell for a while. Where I bask in the radiance of your beautiful smile.
For its your face I would remember all my life. Let me now ask that we live as man and wife.
I know you both have left much pain behind. But know that in love, much healing you'd find.
Dance you two, weave the story of the world between the tapestry of your own world. With senses keen.
My love, I'd be thrilled if only you would think to have me, for life is fleeting, gone in a blink!
The hills beckon me where I would walk in woods. Holding you beside me, each couple with their broods.
Melt me down to my elements, then cast me anew. For I would be pliant for you. My pledge I'd renew, To hold and cherish you until the end of my days. To swirl in your waters, live enthralled by your gaze.
Hope your senses reel at the thought of me. And all the ways I'd touch you deep and wild. How I'd bask in your love, shout in pure glee, As we found ways to unmask the inner child.
Tell me you'd be here this instant and I will stop all my meandering, rather live with you in glee.
It gladdens my heart to know that you exist. That the ether connects our minds and hearts. Tell me lover, should I walk through the mist? Would I find you ready to assemble all my parts?
Oh darling my light is glowing dim, but I wait. I strove hard to find you, first in my dreams, Now come quick to me before it's too late. Do you hear my whimpers amidst their screams?
On a patch of grass on the same side of a slope. So that we may grow in the melody of one another. Good water! That harbinger of plenty, and hope, Let me find you so we'd have each other for tether.
I grew up dreaming that lovers ought be entwined. And enmeshed, totally inside each other's heart. Have I found that sort of love? Believe it I'm inclined. For this time I've loved you mad, right from the start.
Thoughts that came flowing for a friend on the topic of death, as it overshadows a loved one.
We run amok thinking this Earth to us does belong. In your despite we play with fire, not having the sense That your dreams can take us to the very heavens!
Genuinely asking a friend to share her thoughts and feelings as I realize everyone's life is in 3d - technicolor.
Reflecting on life in the company of two very dear friends.
A personal note to babies and children everywhere, written for Renaissance
Another note to toddler's and youth, this one with a final note to parents to always be mindful about life. Also written for Renaissance
Care for one another as we can do, with love. Uplifted, as on a starry, starry night, we look above.
In all my madness and insecurity, I've always forgotten to pray for and be kind to the ones that love me so.
For a friend's daughter for her birthday, this one extra special for it reflects my love of books.
Oh, absolute mirth at the thought of the battles of life to be fought.
Beginning with an appreciation for distance, this poem quickly talks about how friendship can bridge any gap and quickly switches to even grander themes.
A landmark poem as I start releasing that pent up anger and write with a new force of feeling / authneticity instead of sugar coaring everything.
Another important poem of self reflection as 2 dear friends bring me closer to believing - believing in myself.
Enough talk of daemons and sprites and spirits that would possess a poets imagination, lead him to daydream and continually obsess - What these fellows need is some strong grounding in reality.
I think of the years stretching in front of your grandchildren and know, that they will carry your spirit fierce through all their laughs and tears.
Break the Chains that bind, prise open the cask's lid and strain once again, this time moving sure-footed and lightning fast.
We should only be grateful for the road brought us here, through good times and bad, now come dance and thrive.
Dear Friend of mine, how the tomorrows stretched to infinity a scarce decade ago! You were right, my philosophies were all sterile and puerile, filled with a false Ego
Oh the friends I leave in your care as I trot to my new home with my old fife. Especially the ones you took to your bosom for they'd borne too much of life.
let work morph into it's divine future and no longer maim or control. This very moment, we withdraw our sanction from poverty, homelessness and war. We eliminate the need for banks, debt and taxes forever!
There's a part inside us that's strong though grieving. It wants to sing your praise, but also is filled with sighs. All through your life, we never at your hand stopped receiving.
... don't let life drive you around the bend. Go with glide in your stride instead, always wisely your time do spend.
For its is only when we reach for perfection that we become the game. And to play the game you must always surrender the outcome
A random prayer for a friend
For a near and dear sweet friend whose on the verge of separation and divorce
Life finally calls for us to have poise and a shedding of the ego, as we revere all things beautiful, with creatures great and small.
A contemplative poem thanks to my uncle Chalam
This poem describes a friend whose feeling low and "unable to hear the music"
An apology to friends for being obtuse.
"Making love in the morning sun in some Of my earliest essays as I revelled in your beauty, In your warmth with a sense frolicsome."
In this poem about my father's fear of discussing death, I begin to make a case for Euthanasia - something I've believed in for more than a decade.
About my friendship with 4 women.
But Humankind seems ready for fresh ideas, that's a plus. I wrote last year that the time can be even now,
"At new beginnings, I'd dream on, hopeful with each passing day. And glad for those friendships that are cemented for a lifetime."
Each day we live we find positivity to buoy us from the crass and odd. For blessings today in this seemingly harsh world may seem almighty few
A prayer for a dear friend that she recover quickly from a fall and fracture.
About the ups and downs of communities and the gleanings we can have from our elders.
Like it says: "we just bonded well straight from the start", you gentle giant you!
Dead set against all forms of war, this one ends with: "Come my much loved species, time to turn the page!"
About a long forgotten intimacy, the giving into dammed up feeling and the rekindling of an old spark.
As I reflect on my loneliness and comfort myself that a better time will come when I have a body to love.
About the human race that should "discover the light and we walk elated and tall".
Another moving piece of advice to humanity to "dig deep and suck out all the marrow of life".
Something about breaking away from city life and inviting humanity to an exodus leading us to live with Nature.
A prayer to stand in the sun, having conquered the lower tendencies - and an invitation to all to come do the same.
About a friend no longer beside me, in continuation to a letter I wrote her in 2018.
Seriously, this ones about us holding onto our dreams that we may change the world into something special.
About the dreamers who would have mankind progress and boldly do it.
...
I grew up lost in books. Some authors are timeless and I would like to weave impressions that 6 of them left indelibly on my heart.
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
for Bangladesh!!!
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
And our bs #radars are never up to not be swayed by #propaganda,... What's the point, #humanity, in crying at this or other outrage
For the friend whose broken free of her past.
...
...
...