Embrace the Lines

The flag glides upward in slow motion. Days have the lucky teachers rehearsed For this honorable day of the country. We, children have sung until we go hoarse No matter it was a sunny or a rainy day. Rehearsals went on, missing classes and plays. Yes, the great day is here today! I proudly stand saluting the flag. The official goes inspecting the parade. Each child envies the other with whom is Exchanged a polite little word and hand shaken. I stand in my corner, not so lucky. My eyes rest on the boxes of cakes and juice, Neatly arranged by the Headmaster’s office And my interest wavers from the day’s event. The speech begins; I feel a face familiar was his. I rack hard my brain keeping a fixed smile. Years back he was news headlines, Charged for corruption and misuse of office, Then for sexual harassment on a minor, it was. Charges were soon scratched for lack of evidences And the mass had moved to some hotter issues. A loud request breaks the monotonous speech, I come out of my reverie “Children, give a big hand To our distinguished guest, he is doing a great job!” The claps echoed loud in the air. “He is offering two dozen books to our school library!” The claps grew louder and I clapped hard as I can. “Three cheers for the country…” “Hip Hip Hip Hurray!” (3 times) “Three cheers for the guest of honour…” “Hip Hip Hip Hurray!” (3 times) Thrilled I nearly knock down my friend, Raising my little flag and shout as loud as I can. I muse with hungry eyes “I wish I can be as important as him!” Date:9/07/16 Contest: Embrace the line (s)