Old Friend

By Sneha Tewari

Slippers softly chirp as I count passing pups,

Candies in hand, the other in my father’s clasp.

Childhood fears find solace in his embrace.

Reciting learned poems becomes our daily grace.

Together, we shield mistakes from Mother’s harsh critique.

Yet, as time passes, our bond starts to leak.

We argue and disagree, and sometimes our fights are harsh.

We stop talking for days, letting silence leave its mark.

But every time, he comes to me, forgiving with a spark,

Showing his love deeply, even in the dark

Despite his strictness, his support never strays.

He sacrifices health and time through life’s maze.

As I grow, I seek solace in friends’ embrace.

But his love remains unwavering, it stays.

Today, I apologize for past displays.

New friends may come and go, but you, Father, you’re my guide.

You’re the measure of true strength and love, by your side, I’ll abide

By Sneha Tewari