Endeared And Caged. Poem by Nabakishore Dash

A nomad I was,
moved from one
college to another,
free from bondage, tribulations,
enjoyed the life
of a free bird
of the endless sky.
Survived on foods
of bukateria and motels,
only duty was to radiate
my feeble light of textual knowledge
to the young dynamic students
of my beloved state,
being known among my colleagues
as a shy village guy.

A lady of my profession
came to my circle during
our hobnobbing,
gradually permeated all barricades,
skinny, brawny, bony, and filmy,
so far kept intact,
mixed with blood
in my heart, circulated
in all organs,
small and large,
impacted my psyche,
never surreptitiously,
but with caring personality,
devotion to duty,
wittiness and lovely manner.
Over the years
our noncovalent interactions
turned covalent,
my heart fluttered,
endeared each other,
decided to extend it further
as life partner.

After a waiting period of few years
our wedding took place
in a very simple ceremony,
only putting the vermillion
on the forehead of the bride,
a tea party as dinner.

Free bird's responsibilities
were doubled,
freedom curtailed and halved
as if lodged in a cage.
Wings totally clipped,
occasional flapping disappeared,
home made dishes served,
twists and turns endured together
by mutual trust, co-operation,
small sacrifices made
with readiness and ease.