What lies ahead?

Who can tell a new leaf will turn autumn gold tomorrow?
Who is willing to iron wrinkles of worries from everybody' face?
Does anyone care there are too many candles are fighting to
brighten the dark tunnel?

Do we notice that we just missed sea breeze that could bring a fresh change?
Do we hear the sound of seagulls and eagles that scream sadly
and impatiently at thickheads who light candles at the same time?

No one seems to bother to light just one candle together
Who can tell we will have summer love on the beach, holding hands and kissing cheeks? Is anyone willing to give aid or AIDS?
It is your choice. Really.

-- Permata Hamid

If Only ... Son

If only I had changed your nappy
Instead of your nanny;
If only I had been at your teething
Instead of your granny;
If only I had kissed your tears away,
Instead of being away,
If only I had been with you
Instead of chasing a mirage of MONEY!

If only I had been at your annual function,
If only I had been at your graduation,
If only I had shared in your success,
Instead of thinking success was MONEY!

Oh! Son I was miles away at all your milestone,
If only I could turn back the clock;
If only I was given one more chance,
I would have been there for all your wants.
My only question is son;
When I missed so much of your life,
Why did I not have missed your funeral too?

-- By Chandrika Radha Krishnan