It doesn't take much time

It doesn't take much time,

for disagreements to rise,

into arguments & conflicts,

when coupled with bruised pride. 

We need discipline and control,

to maintain calm and composure, 

for, emotions floods our mind,

when provided, with free ride. 

And it starts, with giving attention,

to the elements, promoting chaos, 

as a mean, to further their cause,

using the gullible, as their pawn. 

Our insecurities are exploited,

to sell their ideals as products, 

deeply invading our psyches, 

promoting enmity without reasons. 

For, we inherently seek harmony,

connect with others with goodwill,

opening ourselves to perspectives, 

that are unfamiliar to our beliefs. 

Still, we explore, learning things,

trying to come to an understanding,

sometimes find common strings, 

letting us nurture our bondings. 

It doesn't take much time,

for us to relate with others,

when our intentions are good,

and interactions are sincere. 

Survival of wildlifes

It's a harsh world out there,

life is cheap, courage essential, 

face the risks, of grievous injuries,

just to survive, for another day. 

From the day, they were born,

it's overcoming challenges, one by one,

trusting instincts, hiding from predators, 

taking leap of faith, jump into dangers. 

The nature give some respite,

body is accustomed to the fights,

stronger immunity, faster healings,

let them avoid permanently impaired. 

Yet, lives were still being lost,

those weakened, committed mistakes,

keeping their population in control,

by being part of food cycles. 

It took millennia to perfect,

and balance, was surely maintained,

until arrival, of the destructive force,

devouring their efforts, without second thoughts. 

For, in this rampant exploitation,

there's no survival of fittest, 

only facing the inescapable reality, 

of being pushed into extinction. 

Will the humans ever see,

hear their cries and pleas,

for, they are vulnerable, fragile,

need to remain wild and free.

Drifting apart

Drifting apart, 

we had lost communication, 

someday we would wonder,

the point of such relations,

fading in the backgrounds. 

There are no streams of sentiments,

nourishing our roots for attachments, 

only in memories of past meetings,

infrequent conversations or dealings, 

provides hope for future interactions. 

Drifted apart,

we might have been occupied,

to give attention to delicate sides,

of building bonds, maintaining contacts,

for a more resilient connection. 

Yet, it's sought, for its worth,

keeping alive, in our thoughts,

regardless of motives or reasons,

there's much deeper causation, 

leading to our encounters. 

Drifting apart,

still, treasured in our hearts,

even if limited by boundaries, 

we built bridges to restart, 

the forgotten path... 

For conveying message. 

Come with me dear

Walking alone,

I can't see too far,

the beautiful dream,

among the glittering stars.

So, come with me dear... 

Thoughts hazy, rarely shone

vision colored in sepia tone,

being aimless, unconcerned,

of the life's twists & turns,

losing sparks of passion. 

Walking alone,

I am feeling the fatigue,

from constant tug between, 

hopes and disappointments, 

recorded into my story. 

It's not the burden,

but perceived absence, 

that occupies my mind,

stirring emotions in heart,

seeking your company. 

Walking alone, I have realized,

of being emptied, acclimatized, 

to the routines, present lifestyle, 

and it scares, where future lies,

so, come with me dear...

It's a mystery, how time changes

It's a mystery, how time changes,

when we are confined, in our spaces,

for, the world moves, to newer stage,

while we might lag, keeping our pace,

following our lives... 

And then, comes some meetings,

when we gather, share our stories,

many new faces, people in places,

changing their acts and ways,

being adjusted to world's shades. 

"Oh, you look the same person,

from the years, we have known"

these comments are pleasing,

but carries underlying meanings,

for not having enough exposures. 

Should there be pride or pressure?

Of holding beliefs, values treasured, 

not for the lack, or having comparisons, 

but experiences, fulfilling expectations, 

of oneself and treasured persons. 

It's a mystery, how time changes,

when we witness, still on the fences,

the shifting tides, and crashing waves,

letting us discover, things we missed,

and confront, some uncomfortable truths.

There are advices sprouting in corners

There are advices sprouting in corners,

shared by influencers, in short videos,

fed to the brains, in minimal time,

catering to youth, with attention span. 

These quick bursts of information,

activates our dopamine channels, 

encouraging us to follow their words,

without fact checking or raising doubts. 

Every tip, comes with certain beliefs, 

based on research, personal experiences,

which were spoken with convictions, 

without literatures to back it up. 

Yet, their voices were compelling,

while presenting them as relatable, 

coming as honest, genuine advices,

than prevalent shady advertisements. 

Some contents help us learn,

yet, most only creates confusions, 

by dictating terms and conditions, 

of following lifestyle decisions. 

There are advices sprouting in corners,

but we should be wary of intentions, 

let's not forget time tested traditions, 

for some fleeting impressions. 

Songs, part of our lives

They have a unique appeal, 

giving us excitement & feel,

most are transient trends,

while some are cherished. 

People choices do varies,

depending on moods, individuality, 

with traditions, and upbringings, 

influences taste in the music. 

They are more pronounced,

being part of formative years,

while there are special ones,

that are loved across generations. 

The qualities do suffer,

facing shortages or corruptions, 

even the originals were stolen,

for making cheaper alternative. 

Still, the voice of genuine souls,

does connect with audiences,

to be played in the repeat,

added in collections, after release. 

Songs, are part of our lives

older classics, for nostalgic times, 

fresh ones, pushes creative boundaries, 

yet, governed by our preferences.

Astronomy

The ancients knew the sky,

glittering diamonds in the nights,

captivating hearts, hypnotizing minds,

forming connections, with the divine. 

Astronomy... 

The study of stars & planets,

were one of the first branches, 

that inspired people of past,

to acquire knowledge vast,

and make sense, of the cosmos. 

Deeply linked to daily lives,

from commons to the elites,

incorporated in religious practice,

dictating decisions for countries, 

and make predictions, for the future. 

Civilizations needed timekeepers,

following solar or lunar calenders, 

with the phases, solstice, equinox,

positions of stars & constellations,

and make precise calculations. 

Astronomy... 

With meticulous observations, they grew,

from small rituals, to sophisticated models,

laying groundwork for scientific inquiries, 

building frameworks of various theories, 

and playing, an important role...

On advancements of civilizations!

It took my all to stand

It took my all to stand,

when they were rushing forward,

there were sacrifices to be made,

pushing me with difficult choices,

still I persisted, in defiance. 

They say, celebrate small successes, 

but no one remembers second place,

in a world of increasing competitions,

there's many fighting for center stage,

ignoring ones remaining in backgrounds. 

It took my all to stand,

for, I too admired their acts,

qualities displayed, which I lacked,

inspiring me, for improvements,

working towards my own growth. 

Yet, there's never a steady glow,

flames flickers, when distractions showed,

little by little, building the foundations,

creating my place, with contributions,

finding joy, from small accomplishments. 

It took my all to stand,

still not enough to leave the mark,

being overshadowed in their ranks,

shining brighter like radiant sun,

and I, a candle in the daylight.

Teasing the gullible

They are gullible, so naive,

innocent hearts, ready to believe,

so we play pranks, gentle tease,

for some laughters, in-between. 

It's fun, these lighthearted banters,

strengthens bonds through playfulness, 

let us relive our childhood moments,

that developed, our sense of humor. 

Yet, there are certain nuances, 

to be observed, without lapses,

for, they are weak and vulnerable, 

being prone to emotional distress. 

So, we create positive environments,

that build trust, not causes anxieties, 

so they don't identify it with bullying, 

rather enjoyable interactions. 

For, they are gullible, so naive,

seek your guidance, to perceive,

so, let them smile with glee, 

find pleasure, in jokes & tricks.

We are connected, by invisible strings

We are connected, by invisible strings,

thoughts resonates, hearts do sync,

sharing desires, feelings that spring,

being in love, like our dreams. 

And I gaze, upon your eyes,

falling deeply, when I dive,

these tender emotions, softy flies,

taking me to places, that you hide. 

Your each move, invites pleasure,

sway my mind, losing composure, 

so many wishes, keep sprouting,

showing dreams, of future outings. 

There are no words, for these sensations, 

which flows, with our conversations,

while your hints, and subtle gestures,

giving me signals, for getting closer. 

We are connected, by invisible strings, 

in your embrace, I stopped deliberating,

professing our love, let moments begin,

when we explored, our heart's calling.

Who bears the weights

Who bears the weights,

of the crimes committed, 

by individuals, & communities, 

sometimes leadership of nations? 

For, we are the supporters,

of friends and our families,

getting emotionally attached,

and stand, with decisions of country. 

But, their causes are not always just,

with consequences, demanding reactions, 

flames were spread, we get involved,

as bystanders, treated as accomplices. 

And we grieve, for being the victims, 

after encountering, stray projectiles, 

damaging lives and our properties,

being connected, with places of origin. 

So, who bears the weights, 

of instigating harms on innocents,

blamed for being taking the sides,

where does, true responsibility lies?

Emotional scenes

Growing up, I watched the scene,

where their eyes, glued to screen,

when characters fight, tears stream,

as drama unfolds, in-between. 

And I wondered, what's the allure,

watching them cry, as they endure,

conflicts brewed, conspiracy ensures,

them to stumble, when facing failures. 

It was the time, in every channel, 

most viewed, were such theatrics, 

capturing attention, of our families, 

watching them together religiously. 

Most plots were intentionally crafted,

create atmosphere with background music,

to evoke strong reactions from audience,

gathering more views, higher TRPs.

And it succeeded, forming connections, 

tragedies in plots, building up tensions,

keeping viewers invested in narratives, 

of being witness, them overcoming challenges...

For strengthening relations. 

Goldilocks zone

Inspired by fairy tale,

of Goldilocks and three bears,

scientists termed goldilocks zone,

to define habitable area around stars.

For, here, conditions are right,

where liquid water could exist,

being not too hot, not too cold,

temperature were manageable. 

Yet, it goes beyond temperature, 

requiring balance of many factors,

like gravity, mass, nuclear forces,

without which life's not possible. 

When researched, experts could find,

million of places, were ready to thrive,

be in present, or billions of years past,

life might have prospered and died. 

And here, comes an important question,

were we actually alone, like Fermi paradox,

or are the seeds, of previous organisms, 

that's explained, through functional genome.

For, there were many such times,

when goldilocks universe survived,

in planets, moons, comets & meteors,

as they endured, till reaching new sites. 

P.S. : Inspired by YouTube channel Kurzgesagt- in a nutshell; Ancient life as old as universe.

Changing relationships

Relationship were about connections, 

while developing feelings of affection,

where the wants, needs and wellbeing, 

were bound to duties and obligations. 

For, people have accepted the roles,

giving purpose, with sense of control,

keeping them busy and occupied, 

for a happy and fulfilling life. 

There were exceptions who stole,

enforcing their will, using loopholes, 

to satisfy them greed and desires,

weak and gullible were exploited. 

Then we arrive to modern times,

where lines were blurred, tasks redefined, 

as people become more independent, 

with opportunities, they could find. 

And here, relationships changed,

no longer sacred, with dwindling patience, 

for, expectations rose, with options laid,

bringing negotiations, for every pledge. 

Changing relationship... 

Now, it makes me wonder,

was it moving in better directions, 

when there's no distinction between,

deeper engagements & casual relations?

Our realities are connected

Our realities are connected,

from things visible to eyes,

to the invisible forces of life.

Still, we are too occupied, 

in daily rushes, of routine kinds, 

to give it any attention. 

Yet, we listen, for motivation, 

stories of elites, for inspiration, 

those who achieved great success,

rising from poverty, without privileges. 

And they all speak of the secrets,

of focusing heart, on goals set,

believing them completely in hearts,

keeping them in prayer from above. 

Our realities are connected, 

vast universe or quantum entanglement, 

influencing the functioning of world,

And we could see subtle signs,

in scientific research, spiritual minds,

sharing wisdom through their finds. 

For, it's the art of visualization, 

that helps us reach destination, 

of our dreams, goals, aspirations, 

when we have faith, trusting ourselves!

Peer pressures

We, human, are social beings,

so make groups, & communities, 

since the time, we are child,

it's injected, in every opportunity. 

Outside families, we make friends, 

classmates, colleague, or relatives  

having direct or indirect influences, 

impact our lives, affect our views. 

We connect, in common grounds,

our age, interests, work or status,

putting pressure, through peer groups,

to conform behaviors, change values. 

For, we crave their acceptance, 

while worrying, of being ostracized, 

there's also feelings of admiration,

that fuel our desire of validation. 

And these thoughts have impacts,

on our choices, and taken paths,

which are beneficial or detrimental, 

depending on the groups we follow. 

Then again, it's not permanent,

feelings changes with environment,

if we don't have inherent passions,

our perspectives & values sways...

With time & place!

Chonky

My face beams, watching their acts,

there round bodies, in fluffy attire,

they walk, lay, stumble or play,

being lazy, clumsy, slow in days. 

Chonky... 

These chubby creatures, 

might have been fortunate, 

having their hunger satiate,

while being spoiled enough

to make body overweight,

or just a natural process, 

of accumulating fats,

storing for the future. 

And it tickles, our funny bones,

watching plump body, puffy cheeks,

be the chubby cats or per dogs,

and wild rodents like squirrels, 

even marmots and groundhog, 

being too large for their sizes,

creates unique sense of humor, 

bringing smiles on our lips. 

Chonky... 

We want to hold and play,

to pet, even mess with them,

laugh at their visible annoyance, 

and carry snacks, as peace offerings. 

for, it's just an affectionate call,

we still understand the concerns,

for being aware of the risks,

of them becoming overweight. 

Amusement parks

When mind needs a break,

being away from the routine,

we search for entertainments,

that fills our day with joy,

and we find the best place,

where caters to every age,

not too far, not too close,

and covered in few hours,

with an immersive environment. 

Amusement parks... 

It's a wonderful place,

with its games and rides,

having attractions many,

for weekend gateways,

thrills of roller-coaster,

riding the water slides,

splashing in the pools,

or sitting in Ferris wheel,

gazing vast expanse of sky. 

Children's love the carousel,

some drive the bumper cars,

while families explore rides,

from spinners, to drop towers,

haunted houses & 4D theaters,

some special have snow world,

each theme have their allure,

all fun & games, for the players,

and dining, for exhausted souls. 

Amusement parks... 

It was fun, when I was young,

now older, don't find the urge,

still I recall, those adrenalines rush,

fear and anticipation, of taken rides,

the happiness, of the memories past,

nudges me, to find the opportunities, 

of getting these sensations, once again,

for retaining, that feeling of nostalgia,

while escaping, from the mundane.

Was it envy or contempt

Was envy or contempt, 

questioning inherent advantages,

when we encounter obstacles, 

while others were less affected.

For, they had been fortunate, 

having support of social structures, 

from connections, to the finances,

and assistance, of better circumstances. 

And we, facing the hardships, 

each step, being difficult climb, 

with setbacks and failures, 

acting as frequent hindrance. 

Still, we gather courage to fight,

reach positions, with patient sight,

only to be demanded heavy price,

losing our peace, as a sacrifice. 

And we witness, one in heights, 

flying freely, indifferent to our plights,

not understanding our conditions, 

while promoting their biases.

So, it becomes an endless quest,

chasing the shadows, of their lives, 

to be treated as one of their equals,

while building resentments in hearts.

Fear of losing friendships

Friendship, a beautiful bond,

being part of us since childhood,

chatting, playing, spending time,

filled with joy and happiness. 

We plan for adventures, 

meet regularly for recreation,

cheering efforts for achievements, 

while sympathizing the other's losses. 

Yet, people changes with time,

following dreams, worldly aspirations, 

as frequent gatherings were replaced,

by seldom calls and messages.

And we realize, drifting part,

as we move, to separate paths,

with personal or work obligations, 

creates divides, build the wall. 

And then, we face real world,

shares of successes & failures,

accelerating the mental distance,

involving in status and finances.

It sprouts fear and hesitations, 

stemmed out of low self-esteem, 

while triggered by envy in shadows

finding others grow in positions. 

Still, our heart remembers,

memories of innocent past,

untainted from ugly feelings,

just pure delight of connections. 

May be, that's what we miss,

when we reflect, and reminisce, 

letting go of moments of bliss...

The fear, of losing precious friendships. 

Charm of village life

There's a charm in village life,

where we spend, nostalgic times,

visiting grandparents, and relatives,

during vacations, or occasional rides. 

It was part of treasured memories,

when we explored, the natural surroundings,

with cleaner air, water bodies & greeneries, 

provided a sense of calm & tranquility. 

To be away from traffic & noise pollution,

with constant race among urban hustles, 

our weary mind finds moment of respite,

reducing stress, in slow pace of life. 

Maybe we do crave simple living,

not comparison of materialistic possessions,

reducing the pressures for achievements, 

acting as hindrance, for finding contentment. 

It helps us to have genuine relationships, 

when interactions are personal & authentic,

building strong bonds, with shared identities, 

providing help & supports, in times of need. 

But now, the times have changed,

villages are losing their place,

developing into towns or emptied, 

leaving behind ancient memories...

The irony of situations

The irony of situations, 

never loses its meanings,

when getting the outcomes,

contrary to expectations,

for, the future envisioned,

being betrayed by conditions, 

while the ones unenthusiastic, 

achieve the positions,

without appreciating... 

The irony of situations, 

leaves lasting impressions, 

affecting mental peace,

by inoculating the poison, 

of yearnings & jealousy, 

through unfair comparisons, 

ignoring their struggles,

only focusing on promotions,

of dazzling lifestyles... 

The irony of situations, 

brings profound realizations, 

when we observe silently,

course of thoughts & actions,

which influences our choices,

of grabbing incoming opportunities,

depending on qualities & desires,

for fulfillment of things required, 

and intensity, of our hunger...

Woodpecker plan backfired

The woodpecker flies,

searching places to hide,

their treasured acorns,

stockpiling large hoards,

for coming winters. 

The family gathers,

finding old oak tree,

with hard, big branches, 

for building enough holes,

and store the seeds. 

The woodpecker tries,

hammering beak right,

while chiseling for hours,

to wedge each nut inside,

accumulating large stocks. 

Yet, it's a tiring job,

giving them headache,

while his friends rejoice,

finding a redwood cladding,

in the side of a barn. 

The woodpecker rue,

driving out the squirrels, 

while friends took advantage,

of softer walls to process,

for keeping their acorns. 

And then, winter arrived,

their hard work paid price,

while friends were lost,

finding most of the nuts gone,

as walls were thin & damaged. 

The woodpecker smiled and said,

"sometimes the old ways are best" 

** Inspired from YouTube video 

" The woodpecker's shortcut plans backfired,

by FariaAntillon

We were friends

We were friends,

being together, and we spent,

days and nights, sharing moments,

exploring surroundings, making mischiefs, 

with lots of adventures. 

We were friends,

more than neighbors or classmates,

in times of joy, and amazement, 

in times of sorrow, and disturbances,

being each other's pillar of support. 

We were friends, 

being young to realize,

that we were powerless in life,

as circumstances put us in bind,

unable to make independent decisions, 

We were friends,

then, how could you deceive,

ignoring my requests or pleads,

vanishing from my life,

leaving only void within. 

We were friends,

is what I wanted to believe, 

but your absence, cruel retreat, 

forced me to confront reality,

that I was forsaken... 

Like the shoes outside!

Think again

If you think you have mastered,

from the knowledge, you acquired,

making you an expert in this field,

giving authority, to correct deed,

think again... 

For, when we grasp the concepts, 

it gives insights, power that rejects,

archaic notions, prevalent ignorance, 

and a drive, to spread awareness. 

A noble cause, yet many fails,

when invested with ulterior motives,

with elevated sense of ego or pride,

being dismissive of other's perspectives. 

We might assume it as our wisdom,

unaware, of having early conclusions, 

when our understanding is incomplete, 

not well researched, nor updated study. 

The path of learning is ongoing, 

needs courage, confront our bias,

with open mind, accept contrary, 

while being respectful, to fallen beliefs. 

So, think again...

Before declaring, 

there's lot to know,

and it's empowering. 

Prophesies

It was sought, by ancient lives,

finding guidance, in uncertain times,

with wars, diseases, natural disasters,

made living unpredictable & precarious. 

Prophecies... 

Foretelling future events

or revealing divine will,

through the oracles,

delivering cryptic messages. 

From kingdoms to religions,

they were voices of civilizations, 

where sages discern patterns,

priests would make predictions. 

Some were infused with astronomy, 

while others, supernatural entities, 

that conveyed warnings or promises,

influencing choices, decisions taken.l 

Both ruler and commoners, 

using it as channel of communication, 

with deities, spirits, universal energies, 

and so, changes course of our history.

Bar koli

Ber, these Indian plums,

ripening in winter seasons,

laden in spiny, evergreen trees,

they are indeed a delicacy.

Just after Saraswati Puja,

my eyes are looking for them,

trying to relive childhood memories, 

of relishing their sweet & tangy flavors. 

With crispy skin, soft flesh,

the seeds can cause inconvenience,

biting, slurping, sucking them dry,

grab new one, for another try!

My favorites are ones raw,

mixed with salt and chili,

while achar (pickles) are special,

including varieties of candies & chutney.

Bar koli, these enjoyable berries,

might not be as popular today,

still refreshes nostalgic emotions, 

while providing health benefits.

In good faith...

Most of our connections,

with business or in relations,

were built over invisible threads, 

that weathers difficult phase,

if followed, in good faith. 

For, trust being the foundation, 

demands conformity in actions,

when we are sincere and honest,

without any hidden motives,

of taking unfair advantage. 

The underlying belief in righteousness, 

determines the characters we play,

when we treat others fairly, 

not exploit the loopholes,

undermining spirit of agreement. 

For, when intentions were pure,

and follow standard procedures,

we give due care and attention,

to perform tasks, without fear,

promoting transparency. 

In good faith...

Demands our integrity, 

being committed fully,

with strong convictions,

to treat everyone fairly. 

And that's how we develop,

as nation, society & individuality!

I am not versed, but I will try

I am not versed, but I will try,

in dance of hearts, I won't lie, 

there are concerns, I am shy,

still, in our journey, I could fly,

if we work together. 

A man of soil, I don't sell dreams,

but hold the ground, you walk free,

nothing fancy, life out of ordinary, 

an atmosphere, filled with simplicity, 

would become our routine. 

I am not versed, but I will try,

look at world, through your eyes,

follow interests, and I will apply,

accompany you, to become high,

have enriching experiences. 

A cautious person, take few risks, 

prefer comfort, secure my peace,

it might get boring sometimes, 

we could add spices for a while,

indulging in pleasures. 

I am not versed, but I will try,

so, don't dismiss my significance, 

if there's a chance, then not deny,

let our feelings soar the sky,

when you welcome it inside. 

Withdrawn

They were cheerful, jolly being,

spreading smiles, when they meet,

yet, realities struck, hit them hard

bringing array of disappointments. 

Then are the shy, introvert ones,

keeping distance, live in own world,

finding escapes, from the crowd,

drifting further away, as years pass. 

While some, facing unforeseen events,

getting diseased, making life changes,

making it difficult, participate in activities, 

limitations pause, with missed opportunities. 

Withdrawn... 

The souls preferring isolation,

having negative social experiences, 

instill fears, causing apprehensions, 

and mind develops, coping mechanisms. 

And we could see subtle signs,

as they display changing personalities, 

canceling plans, avoiding gatherings,

preferring solitude to social outings. 

Withdrawn... 

They need understanding, 

with love and encouragement, 

creating enough openings, 

for them to allow, seek connections... 

And not let temporary emotions,

turn into a vicious cycle!

In our silence, we could trace

In our silence, we could trace, 

feelings once born, left out of grace,

nurtured, treasured, kept in hearts,

still, couldn't stand trial of time. 

The world moves on,

marching towards a future bright,

and we walk, stride by stride,

giving attention, to goals at sight. 

Yet, we stumble, fall behind,

each milestone, acting as blinds,

sprouting discontent, apprehensions, 

and affecting, our peace of mind. 

And we reminisce, our past years,

precious memories, we hold dear

yet buried deep, out of desperations,

of following dreams, worldly aspirations. 

In our silence, we could trace,

emotions which flows, fill the space,

when we realize, prices we paid,

while hanging, from a thin thread...

Between storms and inner void.

Mahaprasad

There's something special,

about making simple food,

into divine offerings. 

Mahaprasad...

Devotional offerings to deities, 

when shared among devotees,

creates a sacred space within. 

Following ancient traditions, 

using earthen pots & firewood,

and sold in temple premises.

Then there are times,

being freely distributed, 

to poor and needy.

Yet, here each morsel,

makes our heart content, 

while filling the stomach.

Limited spice & condiments,

having restrictions in elements, 

still brings magical taste.

Mahaprasad...

In those moments,

everyone comes together,

to partake in big gatherings. 

And I wonder, how special it is,

pure & sacred, these God's gifts,

letting us experience, soulful bliss!

© Dr. Manish Rout 

Fear of thunder

Thunder, the distant rumble,

loud booms, crashing sudden,

accompanied by bright flashes,

stunning us, make us stumble,

and we run, seeking covers. 

It's not irrational, wanting to escape,

averting risks, of grievous consequences, 

finding shelters, away from open spaces,

and avoid vicinity, of taller structures,

providing conductive path, for electrical discharge. 

Human species may have learned, 

but other animals, have their intuitions, 

instinctively scared, scattering away,

or being vigilant, locating places,

when encountering, signs of lightening. 

Is it evolutionary or learned process,

triggering their fight or flight response, 

apprehensions of unpredictable nature,

with memories, from previous exposures,

creating a sense of helplessness. 

Thunder, it makes us shudder,

push panic button of inexperienced, 

still, it fascinates, evoke interests, 

when we discover, it's true essence...

The sheer magnificence, of the process!

Tree tunnels

There are places, captivates hearts,

of the travelers, crossing the place,

by forming natural architectures,

with surroundings, enhancing effect,

providing wonderful experiences. 

Tree tunnels... 

They are my favorite spots,

wherever I had encountered,

walking or driving on the road,

lined with trees either sides,

forming a canopy overhead. 

A refreshing break from cities,

like being enveloped with greeneries, 

with rows of trunks and branches,

creates unique sense of enclosure,

letting me immerse in nature. 

Shadows dance on the asphalt,

as sunlight filters through leaves, 

while foliage changes with seasons,

blooming flowers, and fruit yields, 

there's something new to relish. 

Tree tunnels... 

It's connection to natural world,

that evoke feeling of nostalgia, 

calming mind, giving us respite,

easing our stressed hearts,

while providing, much needed shade!

Being considerate

You will not lose face,

to give others some space,

understanding their perspectives,

before giving judgments. 

It's a sign of your maturity, 

when we protect their dignity, 

being empathetic to their needs,

while we protect our boundless. 

For, we all deserve respect,

not be insulated for our lack,

so we learn, to become tactful,

avoiding words or actions, that's hurtful. 

But, it not always an easy task,

varies with situations & temperament, 

building understanding takes time,

with our patience, and tolerance. 

So, let's be polite and kind,

raise awareness in our mind,

be respectful of other's sentiments,

when we discover the joy...

Of being considerate. 

Street dog problems

Since ancient times, they were there,

accompanying us, like our shadows,

wandering around human dwellings, 

becoming part of families & communities. 

They didn't ask much in return,

some leftovers, shades in weathers,

paying with their loyalty in return,

sacrificing themselves for our protection. 

But now, they were being blamed,

for the attacks, property damages,

even innocent actions were mistaken,

fearing of harms, or deadly diseases. 

There are statistics, which shows,

sporadic cases of mauling or rabies,

vulnerable of society being targeted,

by rogue packs or aggressive canines. 

Yet, not many delve on circumstances,

while pushing for their blanket bans,

severing sacred connections in this process,

between man and domesticated animal.

It's both cumbersome & cost intensive, 

breaking ecosystems, took years in making,

when solutions, can be more humane,

giving justice to both animals & people. 

So, I hope, good sense prevails,

and we find, amiable resolution.

Don't pester, when I am occupied

Don't pester, when I am occupied,

it won't help, as my attention tied,

and you will receive curt replies,

where the concerns are dismissed. 

For, time is a precious commodity, 

world fights to get control over it,

paying us payment or entertainment, 

to capture our interests as price. 

Our situations may force choices,

to keep working on the projects,

or the hold of dreams or passions,

make us focus, masking distractions. 

Moments pass, while we engage,

as if confined, inside invisible cage,

becoming blind, to our surroundings, 

and deaf to voices of loved ones. 

Don't pester, I may overreact, 

getting annoyed by your acts,

for, I am not mentally available, 

addicted to tasks that's favorable,

To my present thoughts. 

And then, I wonder,

why I was left alone...

Healthy trends

It's becoming a new trend,

of following balanced diet,

for promoting healthy livings, 

using food as foundation. 

Some follow the ancients,

like sattvic or Mediterranean,

while others take to extremes,

of paleo, carnivore or veganism. 

Health research do support,

gluten-free, intermittent fasting,

while more try to embrace,

low-carb or ketogenic diet. 

The general principles are same,

promoting conscious healthy eating,

by emphasize qualities of food,

including sources of essentials. 

For, we have become prone to diseases,

consequences of our harmful lifestyle, 

of taking processed and sugary products,

not necessities, but fulfilling our pleasures. 

Healthy trends... 

They are a welcome change,

but obsession, might bring stress,

people needs vary, food is complex,

so, understanding body is important. 

Middle class dilemmas

Struggling to stay afloat,

relying on fixed wages,

with rising cost of living,

eating away their salaries,

they abandon their dreams,

burdened with responsibilities, 

with inflation adding pressures,

in the era of widening inequalities. 

Middle class dilemmas... 

How could they manage their finances,

with rising rents, and paying mortgages,

while quality education costs more,

looming risks of health conditions,

force them to cut their expenses,

postpone plans for children, 

to protect their savings,

from decreasing. 

Middle class dilemmas... 

They are the voice unheard,

suffer silently society's onslaught,

trying to live in peace & harmony, 

being law-abiding citizen. 

Wishing to get the freedom,

of choosing without concerns. 

Water footprints

They prophesied it would happen,

sooner or later, this world will learn,

facing the dangers, that have begun, 

a consequence, of their actions. 

Water footprints... 

We can see the warning signs,

by measuring these indicators find,

our consumption of fresh water,

throughout entire supply chain. 

Straight from the sources,

groundwater, lakes & rivers,

how we are going to extract,

and utilize, by various clients. 

For, we can only see outcomes,

with dried wells, lakes, channels,

facing droughts and also floods,

onslaught of erratic climates. 

But we never identify the problems,

or willingly try, to turn a blind eye,

for, it would force us to confront,

and take, some difficult decisions. 

Only few are used in households,

even industries, take some toll,

but majority were being exploited,

for the needs of agribusinesses. 

Farming water intensive crops,

From human needs to animal feeds,

everything will end up in the plates,

satiating the appetite, of us consumers. 

Water footprints... 

No matter the planted trees,

water harvesting in the cities,

could reverse the damages done,

in the grounds or skies above. 

UNLESS WE CHANGE OUR FOOD HABITS.

Walking in the midnights

Walking in the midnights,

presented with misty sights,

as fog covers the surroundings, 

creating ethereal ambience. 

I got barefoot, on wet soils, 

blade of grass, slowly coils,

gently brushing the surface,

softly wetting the dried skin. 

Cool breeze strokes my hair,

as moon shines, bright & fare,

stars glitters above my head,

showing path, opening the gates. 

Like portal to another dimensions,

diving into world of imaginations, 

I was guided by mysterious force,

and I followed, letting it course. 

For, here, I was invited guest,

to see things that's cherished, 

yet, forgotten with changing times,

in these secluded, open grounds. 

And it welcomes, only the hearts,

not corrupted by worldly vices, 

displaying the magical spectacles, 

that exists, beyond the boundaries.