Choking On Freedom

By Dr. Mamatha Suthar

I step outside for a breath of fresh air,

to see the world, to just be there.

But a mask now covers my face,

Not to hide — but to guard my space.

The smoke of cigarettes fills the street,

at bus stops, tea stalls, where people meet.

For them, it’s thrill; for me, it’s despair —

their joy becomes my poisoned air.

Though rules say no, they light and blow,

in public places, still they go.

While we, who hate the toxic haze,

adjust our lives in countless ways.

We cover our nose, we turn, we flee,

avoid the spots we loved to be.

A passive smoker against our will,

their pleasure makes our health fall ill.

By Dr. Mamatha Suthar