THE WORDS OF MY SILENCE [poems]

THE LAST PROMISE

The sun was shining bright, yet the wind was so pleasant,
You are playing with our child with a smile so innocent.
I wasn't able to turn my eyes, I wanted to hold you tight
And say," dear, could you stay home for one more night."

But I knew that these words may disturb your mind,
So, I was hiding my tears and was acting like I was fine.
When it was your turn to leave, you came to me and bent over to kiss,
Then after by holding my hand you said, "I'll return soon honey, I promise."

You went out waving your hand, showing your love and affection,
I felt so happy and proud because you are flying to find your satisfaction.
I was standing in front of our home holding our child's hand,
And wishing you a happy journey to your Military Land.

The sun doesn't shine for me without you,
I was all alone at home and just thinking about you.
But it was our cute little son, who helped me to move on,
His innocent smile made all that darkness to burn.

And when the days were going on smooth, I got an anonymous phone call,
They said, "Madam we are sorry to say that, your husband has died in the war."
I don't know what to say? Where to go? What to do?
What should I tell our son when he asks for you?

I cried a lot yet I know no tear can bring you back to me,
But how can I ever live my life through this agony.
I still remember those last hugs and kisses,
But now my heart is broken into pieces.

And today, here I stand in front of the whole Army,
Assembled to show their grief and to honor your bravery.
By standing here in your Royal Funeral,
I am telling this to you, my General.

Though you have failed to keep your promise and left alone my life,
Still, I feel proud and honored to be your wife.
I always respect the dreams you have dreamt being a Daddy,
And now I promise you that, "our son will join the Army."

-Laxmi Bhargavi Golla-