AN ODE TO MY FATHER ON HIS 98th BIRTH ANNIVERSARY
Located amidst stretched fields in a village backward and old,
Youngest of three, your spirit was cast in a different mould.
Poverty's grip was tight, yet your dreams refused to wane,
By kerosene's faint glow, knowledge became your gain.
No velvet cushion, no books laden on a shelf,
Street lamps were your tutors, the night your only pelf.
Fire in your eyes, a vision etched so clear,
To lift your family, chase away every tear.
Years blurred in a torrent, ambition your only guide,
A promise you whispered, forever by your side.
Then came the sweet triumph, a smile that lit the way,
For your family's struggle, you finally paved the way.
With tireless endeavour, success you did embrace,
Medals of merit, testaments to grace.
You were a beacon of honesty in the civil domain,
You served with fierce honour, a shield from every strain.
When floods devoured villages, a hero rose to stand,
Rescue operations, led by a steady hand.
Your duty called you to treacherous terrain,
Hunting for outlaws, erasing their wicked reign.
In the seat of judgment, your scales held ever true,
Justice for all, a promise that forever grew.
The corrupt and cunning felt your righteous might,
Their misdeeds exposed, they bathed in punishing light.
Fear gripped the wicked, your roar a thunder's call,
Their crimes laid bare, how they trembled, one and all.
Bribery's whispers met a withering scorn,
For the downtrodden public, a champion was born.
Before I graced this world, a wish bloomed in your heart,
A daughter, to be the reason for a brand new start.
Your soaring expectations, a wind beneath my wings,
To reach for the heavens, the joy that your spirit brings.
A father's firm hand, guiding us with care,
Honesty as our compass, hard work a burden we'd share.
No favours for anyone the path you followed was full of fight,
Your values we hold close, a legacy that is always right.
Though you've walked on, your spirit forever remains,
A guiding light, whispering through life's joyous strains.
Papa, our hearts brim with pride, a love that knows no end,
For the man you were, the values you gave us will never bend.
*****
