Safe Haven

(Dedicated to a man, a passer-by, my eyes fell upon in the streets of Kerala)

Lungi-clad and a shirt too

Clothes that have worn out over time

You’re too thin for them

There’s just too big for you.

Puffs of smoke you blow out

Skin as dark as coal

You seem all alone.

Weighed down by a large and seemingly heavy red sack

It’s weighing you down –

Like a burden

Like the troubling memories of the past

Are they etched in your brain?

How did you get here last?

Were you ever ready for the life on this destined lane?

It’s hard on the fast track.

It’s harsh in the streets.

You’ve turned cold and lifeless

Lost beyond belief

It’s as if you live by instinct and instinct alone

Bitter and bleak

Confronting life as it comes throwing itself at you. 

Crestfallen and disoriented

You seem so alone. 

The defiance in your eyes

I can see that

It’s unambiguous

The agony

I don’t see that

Nebulous

But it is there isn’t it?

Yet your face, so helpless, like that of a child

Must I help you?

Or are you strong enough to lead the way

Can I help you?

I want to earnestly help you find your way

Are you desperate?

How life treats one is insane.

Blessed are you that mourn

You’ll be comforted

The past will be pardoned

How you ended here will be forgotten

Keep going, keep walking

Where you were is not where you still ought to be

Keep searching

And your persecutions will come to an end

You’ll find a safe place in heaven

For He’s kind, He’s merciful

And things like faith and hope are true

Belief is too

Keep looking, keep walking

Even if you traipse sir,

Keep walking as long and as far as you twig-like legs can carry you.

You’re still an innocent

Unsullied, untainted.

Just awaken your sleeping soul

Open eyes, clear mind

Feel, breathe…

Bask in sunlight

Awaken in splendor

Creation has so much to offer you.

Years of endurance,

And oh look at you…

You’re still standing.

A man of the street?

An escapee?

Vagabond?

I don’t really know who you are

I wonder where you are

I never knew where you were from…

But one thing’s for sure

Home is for everyone

Security, survival is for everyone

A safe abode awaits

Sweet home awaits for you.