A Falling Tree. Poem by Nabakishore Dash

I grew in the dense forest
fully under the care of Nature.
Sun helped feeding me
and showers gave water.

My root stood firm
like a mountain stands tall.
Then I was a growing tree,
robust and hale.

Monkeys, squirrels, birds of
varied hue and physique
peacefully rested on my
branch.
I provided them fruits and
leaves for nutrient- rich
lunch.

Then they made merry and
defecated on me, but
liked me with heart and soul.
Like members of a family,
my years rolled by.

Like all other living beings,
I became old,
lost my vigour and power.
All whom I supported,
now begin to
disgracefully scatter.

Nothing is perennial
in this mortal planet.
My heart shatters asunder, but
I pray for their best.

'If we give the best,
to us the best returns.'
To these prophetic words,
sometimes exceptions
happen.