The Hollow Promise

____________________________________________________

A coward dies a thousand deaths, a hero only one.

____________________________________________________

I wipe off the drops of sweat from my forehead

and slowly open the packet and take out the bread.

I look around me and see nothing but the high mountains and the endless sky

Everything seems so different- sky appeared less blue and flowers more dry.

The birds had vanished and the sheep had died.

I can do nothing about the changing times, I had cried and tried.

My heavy heart and blocked thoughts were given a halt

A boy had come to give me a note when I could not hear his cry, It was my fault.

The note was my Life, my strength, my power.

It was something that reminded me that I have to come out of this hour.

She said she loves me, misses me and wants to be with me.

I could sense two warm drops of water coming out from my eyes, I fell on my knee.

She was telling how she sits beside the phone and spends the night.

She said how she weeps and hugs our seven month old angel tight.

She wanted to know when would I be back.

My absence worsens their lives, its beauty and charm they lack.

I stood there helpless, numb and alone. I cried and I wept.

I knew I wouldn't see them again, my promise of coming back would go unkept.

My muddled thoughts were given a huge blow.

I turned back and everything in hand, I had to throw.

I saw my brothers and our van burning in a rattle,

It confirmed our defeat. We had lost everything, the war, the battle.

And just then I feel a deep pain in my heart, my chest.

And slowly I feel peaceful as I fall rest.

May the Almighty protect my country for whom I am dying,

May the Almighty strengthen my little Angel- whom I have never seen laughing and crying.

But, I have a picture of hers in my read and pale eyes.

And I hope she doesn't forget me and though I am dead, I hope my memory never dies..