This Diwali

Sitting here in an empty house

In a pretty skirt and a bright blouse.

I think of the Diwali I once had,

Makes me smile and makes me sad.

Never knew as I left home,

Seeking independence in every bone,

That I would want all this once more

Fireworks, sweets, Rangolis on the floor.

Mouthful of sweets, a dreamful eye,

Shooting rockets up the sky.

And though it seems like yesterday,

I know I've got a set of hair grey.

Oh! How I miss the olden days!?

The crackers, diyas and all the craze.

Now I can do anything with my time,

But I want the Diwali of my prime.

With family and friends stitched together

Jumping about in the cold weather.

With Mommy in charge of prayers,

Brother to steal me sweet layers.

Papa helping me with chakris,

As I danced around it in glee.

Love and charm on every face

Diwali was the best place.

And while I have all I need,

This has been much less of a Diwali.