The Value of Zero

Aman was his real name, friends called him ‘Zero’, Helping others was second nature to this little hero, He had calmness and peace of a Himalayan sage, It was surprising to see in someone that age! The arithmetic teacher liked him the most, Despite his brilliance he would never boast, He was top in the class, yet remained humble, He helped anyone who did not find it simple. He put others first and held himself back, In sports, in lessons or during the break, All sailed through school and college tests, It was Aman who always helped us do our best! Years passed, we parted and moved away Memories of school and that of Aman would stay We rarely met,time took us through life, Children, money, house, holidays and wife. What became of Aman was not known to any, Someone rumoured he was poor without a penny, Someone said he turned selfish and left the country, To seek fortune and wealth beyond the boundary! Soon the real truth was beginning to emerge, ‘Zero’ had remained true to his nature and urge, He abandoned opportunities of great wealth, And set up a charity on his own in stealth. All the money he earned with his talent in maths, He donated to poor children to pave their paths, He lived in a tiny house of his own by the lake, His money was only for food and his basic take! The Charity he created he named after a saint, No mention of his name,his identity was faint, No one knew him or talked about his endeavours, His efforts created doctors, artists, and leaders! The world prospered because of this hero, Like the nicknamed number he remained a true Zero, His value on his own he diminished to nothing, But unseen he helped others up their career grading! There are many who claim to be truly great, Because of their wealth, power and state, Their meaning of life is to nurture their ego, Caring and sharing for them is a big ‘no go’! In this world we need more like Our man ‘Zero’,! Who lives his life for others as a true hero, His legacy is not money, wealth and fame His legacy is to help and remain without a name! Sponsor Cecelia Hopkins Drewer Occasional poetry contest