Half Dreams

By Anubhuti Bhardwaj

The boy dreamed of Zenith, so high and above

It would bring him huge valour, although not love

To march to the end of the world, undefeated

Reduce the enemy with swords unsheathed

Roamed from place to place, to prove his will

The boy craved authority, wanting all the thrill

He desired the throne, not matter what beholds

To own his destiny, whichever way it unfolds.

Pushed his luck to win, even resolving twisted concerns

To confront life with its numerous labyrinthine turns

His expectations were to be, of Herculean zest

Abstain from distractions, pass every test.

The boy wasn’t heartless, but loving and fun

Only foes avoided him, in case, his friend they turn.

The jocund soul housed a golden heart, filled with mercy

Prayed to the mighty lord, and lived life with courtesy.

One day, a dove flew to the house of this boy

Resting head on his mother’s lap, unknown but filled with joy

Happiness ignited on messenger bringing a letter

Words of God written inside, it could not get any better

The boy went in a dilemma, leaving behind his rejoice.

Mother urged the son to reveal, if fate made its choice.

If anything is crueller than destiny, it should face the mirror

The tyranny would appear then, to give answer much clearer.

With moist eyes the boy spoke, lord has it all summed up

Will grant only half of the dreams, his voice ended with a hiccup.

As it is impossible it read, for both grass and horse to exist together

Peace and war both can’t be given, they undo each other.

You want to be victorious in battles, then heart has no place

Leave apart empathy, forgiveness takes no futile space.

Relentless discipline you would need, rest forgotten

Sacrifices are to be made; all your dear relations undone.

The home you care for, will you bring war to it?

No need of any weapon, hatred enough to burn every bit.

Some of your friends will leave you; envy will separate them.

And pain can embrace you, as unruly warrior you became.

The tears you will bring forth in the battle mayhem

How can I not take away your heart, that will feel them?

The Victories you get, will leave numerous scars

Pride I have to grant you then, for getting all the stars.

The trade-off is a law in itself, no such conundrum.

Oh boy! What is truly meant makes way, do not feel numb.

As the option I have rested with you, for your life ahead.

Other different methods I forge for people to choose instead.

The boy finally smiled to his mother, after his revelation.

But the choice he made then, is not for our equation.

All we need to know is, at times, though life doesn’t bring explanation

Our eclectic choices are still fulfilled, being part of destiny’s narration.

By Anubhuti Bhardwaj