On War

ON WAR

Hi, I am a little girl -my Dad has gone to front.
I saw him going yesterday- in full finery upfront.
Dad has a lovely smile- is always ready for a prank.
His visits are like manna from heaven- for which God must be thanked.
When he comes, a lot of activities take place everywhere.
He fixes various problems and mother puts flowers in her hair.
But this time when he came- all were subdued.
They talked in hushed tones, and to T.V. remained glued.
Father played with me- but he was preoccupied of sorts.
Tense- as if waiting for something to happen and follow course.
Then one morning- he stroked me gently and said he had to go.
"Why so soon?" I asked- determined not to let go.
"I have to go as war is on." "And what will you do in that?"
"Why, I'll kill enemies and save the nation"- came his proud response.
I am only six- you see- my mind is not developed.
But so far as I can understand- the news has left me shocked.
My loving papa killing someone- I can't visualize the scene.
And what if someone kills him instead- the idea is horrible in extreme.
Dear God! Why do people go to war? Why are they so naïve?
When I- a mere child- can see that fighting is evil and brings only pain.
I pray for my Dad- please keep him safe and well.
I pray for dads of other children too- have mercy on them as well.

~ Jayanti Sinha ~

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