I Am Not Surprised
I Am Not Surprised
My Dear Son
You held my hand tightly as a tiny chap
Walking to school on auspicious first day
You hold my hand tightly as a grown-up man
Wheeling me to old age home this fateful day
We have only swapped positions
You were a bit shaky I have bit of trepidation
No, I won't blame you I hold no grouse
Your decision does not come as surprise
You, like many, seek unbridled freedom
I accept my destiny with total resignation
Caught up in quagmire of material world
You have turned self obsessed self centered
In home and hearts for parents no space
Gripped you are in today's mad rat race
Values you have placed on back burner
Pity, you are turning away priceless treasure
Gone with your father will be the backbone
The very foundation of a strong happy home
You think I'll languish with my heart burning?
No, I'll live happily with my life's earnings
With my kind of people in same boat sailing
I'll find togetherness compassion and bonding
Independent I'll live on my own terms
Not like a burden on an ungrateful son
Separation from my lifeline will remain a cross
My agony you will fathom when you face such loss
A word of caution for elderly like me
Live life with dignity not pity or charity
Raise your children well grant them their due
Save enough though for old age blues
Take up a vocation pursue your passion
Make evening of life free from frustration