Travel

They checked me in, security done,

And was asked,

“Have you got anything, that you should not carry?”

Which got me thinking.. and I realized that,

In fact, I had forgotten to carry my own self with me!

It was a mistake, it was a blunder,

Not to carry my “self” with me !

What will I do when I see the mountains,

 rivers and nature’s beauty ?

How will I feel the chirrups of birds,

roars of lions and a dolphin’s jump ?

If there is no me, gone is the sensitivity,

 and power to appreciate the world !

 Returned I then from the airport,

Running back home, for my me asap !

And lo and behold !

Here was my "self' waiting for me !

I apologized, and hugged it, tears rolling from my eyes.

She smiled, “It’s okay, I knew you will be back ! “

Now whenever I travel next, 

I make sure to carry my “SELF” with me,

Like a broach,

Like a passport,

Like a life-jacket,

That I can not do without!

- Smita Dhruv