The Candle and The Wind

Once upon a long time ago,
A candle burned alone.
Its tiny flame spread the light
In the pitch black moonless night.

Soon, the wind picked up speed
Tossing away the fallen leaves.
Towards the candle, it rushed
Eager to swipe it with its gusts.

The little flame clung helplessly
Flickering wildly in the breeze.
But, with a sudden cold gush,
The solitary candle was snuffed.

The wanderer saw everything –
The battle of the candle and the wind.
But, in his mind, a light had been lit,
And he scribbled in his manuscript.

“A little candle; A little wind
Is what’s needed for the flame to be lit.
Too much candle or too much wind
Will unleash a power that’s destructing.

If both of them are just right,
The path would light up at night.
And just so, that mind is enlightened
In which the candle and wind are balanced.”

Dear Silence

Dear Silence,
Thank you for just showing up and being there.
Without you, there would be cacophony everywhere.
And with you, the noise makes sense.

Dear Silence,
Your value is beyond measure.
Just like pearls are discovered in an ocean by a diver,
The mind uncovers wisdom in your presence.

Dear Silence,
It’s paradoxical, but you are an excellent orator.
Of things left unsaid, you are the messenger,
And you have salvaged many-a-worsening situation.

Dear Silence,
I appreciate you being such a life-saver.
Serenity abounds with you as the mediator.
Thank you for creating the perfect balance.

The Faces of Life

What is life if not an evergreen shrub
With hurtful thorns and velvet buds?
What is life if not a swinging ride
Sliding down and then up so high?

What is life if not a bride’s dress
With sturdy satin and delicate lace?
What is life if not a big mirror
With a side clear and other blurred?

What is life if not a vast ocean
With calm waters and raging storms?
What is life if not a bestseller
With true love and aching heartbreak?

Yes, life in all its beautiful moments,
Strives to always create a balance –
Opposites so distant and yet so near,
Life serves up both smiles and tears.