Learning Every Moment. Poem by Shreej k.c

My neice laughs when I declare I hate dogs.
'I love them, Aww! how cuddly they are
except for that stupid 'Dino' of course.'
She points at the linear scar on her cheek right
adds to the childhood event, her wit and teenage drama;
'Oh! when I loved him so, why did he bite?
flouting momma's warnings, I opened the door
to cuddle him tight.'

I wish I could tell you, what is the key-
to remain guarded or dare the vulnerability;
to seek commitment or trust implied unfolding;
to offer everything to make it meaningful
or nothing to save yourself from breaking.
I wish I could tell you sweetheart
before you get any scar, learn it the hard way
like a charitable apology handed to a toy.

The way you look at me with the queries umpteen,
I shun your eyes, tend to shift my gaze
to the Lord hanging on my wall with sheen.
You ask me why I don't accompany you anymore
to watch fairytales or no longer call you princess
The way you look at me as if I hold all the answers
breaks me into pieces and somewhere it impinges.

'Shepherd, terrier, retriever, frise, poodle'
she spells species as if to convince me-
Every dog is not a scroundrel.
I am but a learner sweetheart,
learning every moment from you.