Below is a poem that I wrote given the context of the current disastrous coronavirus pandemic in India.
I am wounded and hurt
The spirits are in decline
Yet
To push the pain aside or to let it fuel me
I know the choice is mine…
The clouds above are dark
I can’t seem to find the sunshine
Yet
To suffer or to reduce suffering
I know the choice is mine…
It has been a long night
It is easy to quit and resign
Yet
To see darkness or light
I know the choice is mine…
There is horror, there is terror
As I watch from the sideline
Yet
To be afraid or not
I know the choice is mine…
I am hearing the cries
As I see my city burn
Yet
To bow my head or to keep it up
I know the choice is mine…
I am angry, I am frustrated
It is so easy to whine
Yet
To blame others or to take responsibility
I know the choice is mine…
The air is heavy and the fog is thick
It is gloomy on the grapevine
Yet
To carry the heaviness or to leave it here
I know the choice is mine…
There is sadness and grief
I feel like letting out a sigh
Yet
To breathe deeply or not
I know the choice is mine…