THE ROAD OF LIFE

THE ROAD OF LIFE


On a flat, smooth, padded path,
Ringing with sweet lullaby,
Sets out a new traveler
For a hundred year journey.

Soon this special cosy path
Gives way to a wider one;
Where one simply plays and glides,
Responsibilities none.

And then comes the real road,
Uphill, winding, through the wood;
Where the traveler must seek
His own shelter, water, food.

Panting up this cobbled road,
He finds meadows on the way;
Sometimes, a tavern by night,
For a warm and cosy stay.

The traveler must go on,
Age and effort taking toll,
Till he stumbles at the top,
Weary knees and weary soul.

Once atop the hill he finds
Himself totally alone.
Folks and friends are far away
Busy in their affairs own.

Only then he surrenders,
Praying to almighty God:
Lord help me, now I’m tired of
This thorny and lonely road.


* Written in abcb 7-7-7-7 format

M C Gupta
8 October 2003