I Cannot Be As Happy Poem by Pradip Chattopadhyay

I find the beggar's face happier than me
At the street corner where I see him daily
In unkempt hair and stretched shriveled palm
He doesn't look as ruffled or as me bereft calm!

He isn't a bit perturbed none asks him his name
Not complains of clothes barely hiding his shame
Holds on to a lingering smile never leaving his face
Gathers besides the coins comes whatever happiness!

Scar him wrathful season's sun storm and rain
Yearlong his beggar's toil keeps him in the open
Yet never stalks his face the slightest trace of gloom
The dark shades of despair like on my face loom!

The moment you fill his palm he bows in courtesy
Reciprocates with blesses for you and family
I have seen him sharing crumbs with the dog on street
Showing there's a good heart a mind that is sweet!

I find the beggar's face far happier than me
Admire him but more than that I do him envy
Don't doubt it and I'm ready to lay a wager
I cannot be as happy as that street side beggar!