Malabika Ray Choudhury | + Follow Poet |
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Courage That Inspired Awe

A crystal-clear picture! 
                                The embodiment of courage! 
                An unsung Warrior, vigorously protecting uprooted, 
                        heart-broken kin, and many shelterless,
                   After a devastating partition of the homeland! 

                               A man in his prime, giving up 
                         dreams of comfort, luxury, indulgence, 
                      Embraces a life of unimaginable hardships, 
                                  a life of never-ending toil, 
                   So others feel safe, after a harrowing experience! 

                          A life of everyday struggle for survival, 
                             A life of torturous self-deprivation, 
                                 a life of agonizing separation - 
                                      From own loved ones, 
                                   so others live with theirs! 

                             I remember the powerful hands, 
                     which symbolized strength, offering a refuge, 
                         I remember the devotion and dedication, 
                         the tenderest care, the soulful empathy! 
                  I remember the determined voice which symbolized 
                              assurance, calming fearful souls.

                           Partition of a homeland - an unforeseen, 
                           traumatic, curse for millions of sufferers, 
                             Surviving with bare minimum, in an 
                          unknown land, for an unpredictable future!
                           Leaving behind all cherished memories, 
                                precious and prized possessions. 

                                   To me, One man symbolized - 
                                         how to climb uphill
                                  Carrying a formidable weight, 
                                    on the steepest  mountain, 
                                       And reach the summit 
                      with sheer determination and indomitable spirit! 

                                            He is My Father!


September 8, 2020
Winner In Courage - Premier Poetry Contest 
Sponsor: Chantelle Anne Cook

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Angela Crabtree Date: 10/2/2020 7:09:00 PM It's true we are grateful when we see what other people go through. A crystal clear picture indeed! Peace, Angie Login to Reply Malabika Ray Choudhury Date: 10/3/2020 3:27:00 PM Thanks, Angela, for your thoughtful and touching comments. My Father's struggle and courage left an eternal mark in my heart. Love, Mala

Andrea Dietrich Date: 9/20/2020 3:06:00 PM wow, it was your father. Amazing, and belated congrats on the win! Login to Reply Malabika Ray Choudhury Date: 9/20/2020 3:59:00 PM Hi Andrea, thank you so much for reading and leaving an endearing comment. Yes, it was my father. My parents had to struggle because of the partition of the country, but they were courageous, and supported a large family to stand on their feet again. Hugs, Mala

Jan Allison Date: 9/12/2020 12:12:00 PM what a fabulous tribute to your hero, many congrats on your win:-) hugs jan xx Login to Reply Malabika Ray Choudhury Date: 9/13/2020 4:01:00 PM Thank you so much, Jan. Yes, my friend, he is my hero. A brilliant man, but always took care of others. Love, Mala

JCB Brul Date: 9/9/2020 10:58:00 PM A perfect rendition of the true essence of courage. Your father possessed the entirety of a courage inside shell attributes .Your father is a true WARRIOR , dear friend. This a a masterpiece for me..And a FAVE!! Congratulations!!! Login to Reply Malabika Ray Choudhury Date: 9/10/2020 3:38:00 PM Thank you, Dear JCB. Yes, for me, I saw every bit of courage in my Father who dealt with harsh situations with courage, and dedicated his life for the well-being of many people, related or not. He was a true Warrior. Your inspiring words mean a lot. Love and hugs, Mala