Lakshmi
The world lies in a frozen slumber, Not a soul stirring for miles on end. She rises up from the decrepit bed, A far cry from the soft sheets And the warmth of her bed at home. They say this is her home now. The stars overlooking the backyard garden Grow fainter with the dawn sneaking in. The end of the sari draped over her head Flutters away in the breeze, She stumbles - Her mother never let her walk barefoot Inside her house, no less into the wilderness. Who knew what beasts were lurking in the shadows! - Holding the basket close in one hand To keep the fresh blossoms from falling To the earth moist with dew, As she covers her head with the other Before her bare head be seen By some early-riser Out to get some fresh morning air. She remembers her father’s proud smile And her mother’s gentle touch on her head While her teachers praised her intelligence. The henna on her hands Has faded to the same shade As the stalks of singhar she plucks To offer the Goddess. The yellow oleanders coll...