Hasmita Shah, 1993

In a world enveloped in grief and despair

My children infuse a breath of fresh air

They give us hope and courage

What an achievement at so tender an age

We often get angry at them

Yet they accept us all the same

We may scream at them for a while

But they always come back with a smile

They forgive without reproach 

How different is their approach

To us adult men and women

Who can only think how best to get even

Their love is without prejudice

Sealed with a spontaneous hug and kiss

They savour this moment without worry

Tomorrow awaits without any hurry

They have a bright burning curiousity

Extinguishing this would be such a pity

Each journey is for them an adventure

Each task an exciting new venture

Their eyes radiate purity and innocence

All of us had these qualities once

Maybe it’s time to to reacquire these attributes

And learn from our children some simple truths