THE PILGRIM

The Pilgrim set off with a pious heart
Uplifted feelings and benevolence to all
Going to keep his tryst with God
He was full of expectancy, seeking Him in each and all.
He was barefoot and trudged along
One of the milieu-he was happy and prayed
He was on a penance and felt sure
Divine grace will come to his aid.

Throughout the journey he had crossed
Endless chain of beggars and lepers
They whined and cried and prayed for alms
He felt both revolted and piteous
He threw some coins to them at first
Soon his kindness turned into indifference
The wretched souls suffered as desired by God
He was not entitled to interference.

Thus fortified and suppressing his qualm,
He reached destination happy and calm.
He went to have the glimpse of the Lord
A moment he had cherished for so long.
But lo! When he curtsied and opened his eyes
He found but not the Lord on the dais
Instead there sat the leper he had scorned
And Lord was serving him with utmost patience.

Someone jostled him and his trance was broken
He came out; his discovery had left him shaken.
He now knew God was among the needy and downtrodden-
To serve the lowly is the prayer most fervent and proven.

His journey had indeed borne fruit
He discovered humility, kindness and gratitude

~Jayanti Sinha~