The Tree

There it was.

A majestic neem tree

Surrounded by pristine white.

A splash of green,

an oasis in the city desert.

Reminds me of the guava tree in my maiden home,

Happy afternoons spent in its sultry shade.

Crazy clambering climbing up the tree,

And the merry squabbles sharing its booty.

It still stands there,

Tall and resplendent!

While I languish in my new residence,

Miles from home, uprooted and displaced.

Ma, did you love the tree more than me?

Was it dearer to you than your own daughter?

You nourished us both with your love, and were always fair,

Tending to our needs, unflinching in your care!

It still stands there

Rooted and fixed,

Basking in your ministrations,

Flourishing in your custody.

While I stand without,

Forlorn and bereft-

The flesh of your flesh,

The bone of your bones!