For My Student Poem by BASAB CHAUDHURI

When all my efforts turn to zero,
what should I do, Professor?
a student asked me once.

Honestly, I had never faced such a moment—
so I said, I cannot answer.

Life is not a case study, Professor.
Say something
from your rich and varied experience.

The student—razor-sharp in thought—
pressed me further.

I remained silent for a while,
then asked,
how are you so sure about all your efforts?

Efforts do not end.
Perseverance is endless.
Patience is infinite.

You must continue trying, my son—
that is the only way.
There is no end to this journey.

I know it is frustrating at times,
but life must go on
in spite of—

The student looked into my eyes and said,
you mean despite…
so you do not have an answer.

I am nothing but a horse, Professor,
galloping at full speed—
and you ask me to move on until I—

I did not let him finish.

I pulled him into an embrace
and said,
my son…

He fell silent for a moment,
then spoke softly—

I will not give up, Professor.
I will continue.
I only needed assurance.

While you were speaking,
I could not feel it—
but your embrace…
made all the difference.

Thank you, Professor.

And with that,
he ran—
faster than ever before.