THE  OLD  COUPLE  I  KNEW There was an old couple I knew Living in an old bungalow amongst the new They were our neighbours, Who were together in all the weathers! I used to see them everyday at the balcony Watching me go to school I suppose they used to sit there the whole day... At the balcony! As I used to find them there Even on my way back from the school! I used to watch them watching me play I never like it, but I could not say... They were all alone people used to say Never could they watch their own children paly! The initial years of romance still sparkled in their eyes Beyond, which some unknown sorrow lies! Sometimes at night I used to feel ... Someone's watching me from the window, I used to get up and say to myself ... Who must be that? ... I think I know!! I never said a word to anyone But I was afraid from within With what intention would they be looking at me? The fear started creeping in! It was my birthday the next day And we celebrated as I was eighteen I saw them dancing in their room ... As if they were in their teen! The next day - On my way to college ... Unknowingly I turned to their window It was closed! They must be sleeping, tired due to party last night, I supposed!! On my way back from college I saw it was still as it was before And then I was relaxed no more.. I collected a few people to break open the door And was terrified to see what was behind the door. They were lying on their bed Long time gone, long time dead! They had my photo on their desk, with a golden frame for it There was a note next to it. I picked it up and began to read it I stared at them with eyes open wide... Not believing that they committed suicide! The note said - " We were waiting For our grand daughter to be eighteen Now as we go ... We leave behind for her more than she can ever dream This house, our treasures and our last dream. We want her to plant a rose plant on our grave And water it everyday So that even if we are dead and gone We would see her visit us everyday!! " Today as I sit next to their grave I realize how ignorant I was Now I am ashamed of my thoughts And all that I was I could have perhaps been more loving towards them A simple "Hello" would have made much difference to them I know things would not be the same again... But if it would be so, I would be more human then!! ~Akansha~   More Poems By Akansha Home © All Rights Reserved Do not copy