Custard Apple Vendor

I look at the green crocodile balls placed in handcrafted bamboo basket They look ripe and tempting. The snake skinned vendor looks at me with hopeful eyes His turtle legs skin with every vein visible is a testimony of many days of hunger He wears a wrinkled robe of silk over them His brahminy blindsnake skin glistens in sun An amazing will power to survive despite odds keeps him going. I know he will gladly give me a huge discount for his meager earnings determines his dinner Filled with pity, I buy a kilo and hand over a thousand rupee note to him He looks at me puzzled "I don't have change for such a big amount" "Keep the change", I say He flatly refuses "I will have only what I earn I am not a beggar I will get change from nearby shop" "You give me whole basket", I respond He displays his moony teeth His face gleams in joy I am reminded of full moon night He quickly packs my fruits offers free home delivery I lack strength despite good food He is strong despite hunger I feel sad and depressed at times He inspires life is meant for living happily with smile in face As I walk back home I resolve to be happy I have no right to be sad! 06.08.2021 For Emile Pinet imagism contest