On This Special Day, Rakhi Poem by Dr. Bishnupada Sethi

The breeze wafts around
The fragrance of burning incense sticks.
Underneath a solemn tree branch
From where too-
The sobs originate and rent the air.

There are freshly plucked bright flowers,
The resplendent vermilion marks,
The choicest sweets,
A glass of water-
Together these tell a story.

It's about life-
Of love,
Of togetherness,
Promises and trust-
A faith in the Supreme God.

She was told
She could protect her brother,
Get him a long life
By simply tying an amulet
On a special occasion once a year,
Who would promise her limitless love
Assure full protection and care.

Time could not be more cruel than to her today
As she is seated by a piece of stone,
Yet she believes-
Her bother is here around
And this is not a mere piece of stone
But a symbol of a timeless relationship.

They both need love and protection
Of each other
The pain in her soul
And prayer in her tears
Connect each other-
Through cosmic powers.