Myra Ahmad (25th November,1994)

I vividly recall those days

When childhood ruled my world

Going over to friend’s houses

Climbing on trees; hidden in leaves

Sneaking ripe guavas in our pockets

And then running away; laughing

As the old man comes with a stick

I still smile at sweet remembrance

Of birthday parties and games

Throwing pieces of cakes at birthday child

Before being turned out by the angry mother

I remember the sleep-over nights

Bringing in teddies stealthily

And then calling home late at night

Asking for a forgotten toothbrush

When it was time for bed; and lights off

Each child quivered with fear

Feeling for each other hands

I love to sit back and remember the days

When running after mischievous doings

We used to wonder why grown-ups

Still think we are innocent