Hello, Love Poem by Deepak Manchanda of Delhi

Back when telephones were still heavy black
Dials were round and the operator interrupted
"Three minutes over"
We said hello.

Back when matinees were Summer Holidays
The radio played Date Requests
Milkshakes were still served in glass
With American Pie and the music never died
Hello.

Back when we gazed with pride
At our little bundle all wrapped
In baby fragrant sheets
Changing nappies and understanding colic
Hello.

Back to those sunny days
Of picnics in the sand by the sea
Rushing to doctor when baby swallowed a pea
Getting them ready in time for the bus
Trying hopefully for that Grade plus
Hello

Back when sweet laughter bounced
Happily across the dinner table
Anger rose with dawn
And came crying at night - to bed
When tears stomped out the front door
But soon settled with soft smiles
Hello

Back when in a garden of marigold
Amidst the sound of laughter and music
And our little girl dressed as bride
We said goodbye
And hello.

Back when wrapped up in blankets
We admired the twinkling sky
Or - lay sprawled on the couch
Flicking lazily through TV channels
Hello

Hello.
Now what did I do
With my reading glasses
And here, pass me them those
Teeth of mine from out there
Would you?
Love.