Then It Was Heaven, Now It Is Hell

By Indrani Anant Deo

As a raindrop on the burning Earth,

I set out the fire and life emerged,

I made the first plants, green and bright,

Helped the ocean step out, into the light,

A small amoeba grew into dinosaurs,

And how the land shook with each roar!

I saw the Ice Age, a chilling memory,

And finally, that golden moment of history!

My excitement grew with man’s each step,

I promised to protect them, a promise to be kept,

I loved their smart tactics, creative minds,

How nature was in balance, with no binds,

My nectar was their life supporter,

Civilizations prospered near my borders,

I was respected but something changed,

What happened? Was I not your friend?

The humans tore down my creations,

Murdering, choking, forests and oceans,

They caged me inside reservoirs and dams,

Dropping missiles and bombs on lands,

Why did you forget our promise?

Polluting my drops with no guilt, remorse,

I set out the fire, but you lit it again,

If I disappear, what will you gain?

Then it was heaven, now it is hell,

Oh! How much mankind has failed!

My name is Water, and hear me carefully,

Do something now, or regret it eternally!

By Indrani Anant Deo