I REMEMBER WHEN…..--award winner

I REMEMBER WHEN…..


I remember the days when
I chased the butterflies.
They are now all gone because
Of the vile pesticides.

I remember the days when
I wondered as a boy,
How the distant vultures soared
So high up in the sky.

Now they are not to be found
Due to cows’ arthritis.
They are now almost extinct
Thanks to diclofenac.

I remember the days when
The cow was milked at home.
Now-a-days the children think
Milk comes from the machines.

I remember the days when
The air was fresh and clean.
A lungful of breath meant a
Gush of fresh energy.

Gone are those days now as the
Smoke belching vehicles
Spew black venom that burns up
My entrails from inside.

I remember the days when
I cycled down to work.
Now even the latest car
Gets obsolete too soon.

I remember the days when
Radio was treasured.
Even two hundred TV
Channels are now too few.

Are we truly progressing?
No, I have my own doubts.
Both mind and environment
Are too much polluted.


• Awarded third prize in the “SENIOR CENTER FORUM” contest, "SENIOR CENTER FORUM" , Round 21 Feb. To 21 March 2008, hosted by COUNTRYMOM-JUST REMEMBER ME

• Written in 7-6-7-6 meter

• The connection between vultures and cow’s arthritis is explained in the following link--
http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20050202/news_lz1c2vulture.html



M C Gupta
9 March 2008