The Strength of Friendship!!!

I dedicate this poem to all my wonderful friends!

Friendship is a relationship one should treasure. It enriches you, makes you a fuller, happier, stronger person. It gives you a rare, invisible sense of solace and well-being. If you want to continue with a good friendship, you too have to work towards retaining the same… and that is the other side of the coin!! To HAVE a good friend with whom you can share without any inhibition is indeed a lucky situation, but to BE a good friend and be ready to lend a helping hand without a second thought, is a rare quality.

And if you are one, hats off to you!!!

The Strength of Friendship!!!

Friendship is like a flower
With silent invisible fragrance
It has a mystic power
So don’t cast it off with grimace

There is no rule or regulation
As to who gives and who takes
It has a two-way motion
Flexible, stronger it makes

Your drooping shoulder’s gripped n caught
‘Nother perspective, you understand
You open up and share some inner thoughts
Get up… and build again from sand…..

Within you, willpower is built
Somehow you become strong
Your heart will not go tumult
You feel, nothing can go wrong….

If you have a friend, I have to say….
Your days, with energy, chime
Friendship teaches you to give away
And gain at the same time!!!!

---- o () o ----
© Shanta Ramakrishnan
December 23, 2008

You can…. You CAN!!

At one time when I wished to bolster a distraught youngster from crumbling, this is what I came up with! …. Though a drop of water in the ocean, it did help him retain his equilibrium at a very crucial stage -- Shanta

You can…. You CAN!!

“If you think you are beaten, you are,
If you think you dare not, you don’t,
If you like to win, but you think you can’t
It is almost certain that you won’t….

Life’s battles do not always go
To the stronger or faster man
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can!!”

The above verse appeared recently
In the columns of TOI **
It was so true and inspiring
That it caught my heart and eye

Education now-a-days, is tension prone,
That youngsters have nightmares
Exams are something that they dread
Their fear, you can’t compare

But the result, sure, is of great value
When your career at last begins
So work hard, face the worst, but succeed
Always keep up your chin!!

Books, syllabus, portion and the like
Now topics of talk remain
Once exam’s over, you relax a bit
Your lost energy, regain…

It is just not bookish knowledge that counts
When they judge your personality
IQ, EQ, other interests weighed
You’re rated with no pity...

Ease for a minute, then get along
With books of the toughest lot
Your result will be fine, I sincerely feel,
As unaware, you are not caught….

So step on, go ahead and win laurels
You can make yourself proud
Our best wishes are indeed with you
And you’ll shine even in a crowd!!
GOOD LUCK!!

©Shanta Ramakrishnan (May 1996)

** (TOI –May 06, 2006, ‘Sacred Space’ in Times of India, a famous newspaper/daily in India)

The Magic of a SMILE !!!

When my daughter Priya was studying in the first year Engineering in Mumbai, one of her classmates was showing signs of depression due to the academic burden. He was away from his family for the first time, and the challenge of getting though tough subjects in the examinations were too much to cope. When Priya shared the concern of her friends’ group about this class-mate, it touched me. I wrote this poem to boost anyone who is undergoing a strenuous period in one’s life. A smile, a pat and an encouraging nod can work wonders! It did, in this case!! - Shanta


The Magic of a SMILE !!!

:-):-):-):-):-):-):-):-):-):-):-)

Open your heart and smile, my dear,
A small one, a broad one, and bring in cheer
Radiate everyone with your special smile
It’ll keep them going, for quite a while

Smile at many a lonely face,
Smile at those who always rush n race
Bringing to them fragrance and sunshine,
It’ll make our life happy, yours and mine…

Smile, smile at people all around
Smile at the nature that surrounds
For smile clears worries and a lot of mess
And then you end up with great happiness

Smile with the load of books and texts
Smile your way through studies and tests
Toil and sweat but smile through the show
For your life will then have ....
A HEALTHY SUCCESSFUL GLOW!!!

© Shanta Ramakrishnan ( February 1996)

Life on Smoke????

‘Smoking is injurious to health’…. I am sure you would have read this sentence many times either on cigarette cartons or on public hoardings. You might have also heard some well wisher with good intentions uttering the same words. But does a person who is habituated to smoking pay any attention to this? I doubt. For him, smoking is a habit not to be questioned, as he does not bother about the repercussions. In all probability he would regret only when this addiction actually leads to his ill-health, sometimes detrimental to his life.

My husband is one of the lucky few who heeded our doctor’s advice and quit smoking with a strong will-power. And this happened after 30 years of our marriage when our physician gave him an ultimatum!! An optimist to the core, I felt that this was a ‘better late than never’ situation. Now I get a chance to breathe air unpolluted by the stink and the poison coming out of the cigarette smoke.

In the early years of my marriage, when he would not pay heed to my plea, advice or command not to smoke, I gave vent to my frustration by penning my thoughts down. Here is the outcome. The poem got published in ‘Pigeon Post’, the staff magazine of Rallis India Limited, in 1976.


Life on Smoke?????

How do you feel, tell me, when your husband smokes
If you say “no’, he takes it as a joke
Is it a symbol of being a male?
It boosts of course, the cigarette sale.

He says he gets a ‘kick’ out of it
You do not like the idea a bit
He thinks of to-day and not of ‘morrow
When it might be only a world of sorrow

He smiles and takes another puff
If you protest, he barks, “that’s enough”
How to put sense into his handsome head
And think of a healthy future ahead?

He is not the only one who knows it is wrong
In nook and corner, such people throng
Try to warn them, they just ignore
And categorize you as a BIG BIG BORE!!!

© Shanta Ramakrishnan (June 1976)

Reading - A Healthy Habit!!

I love reading. It is a wonderful way of keeping oneself occupied, updated, and knowledgeable. When I was in school, I used to accompany my dad to a local library where he would pick up big, fat novels for himself, colourful and interesting magazines for mom and short-story books for us kids. I remember dad reading out paragraphs from Mrs. Henry Wood's novels inculcating humanitarian feelings in our minds and mom describing different stories each time, giving examples of how courageous youngsters rose above their tormentors. We six siblings, took turns each Wednesday evening, reading and discussing one short story within the allotted one-hour, the unforgettable ‘talk-time’ we spent together as a family. According to my parents, nothing can replace a good reading habit. I totally agree, because, it is this habit that has made me a well-read adult. I cannot resist a good book, whatever the theme be and reading fills me with renewed energy.

It is a shame that youngsters now-a-days have no time for books, no inclination to pick-up one even for a lazy hour relaxation. Through this poem I urge all youngsters to get into this habit of reading!

Reading – A Healthy Habit!!

Children, Hey kids! Now listen to me,
Stop, wait and lend me your ears

I am going to tell you something new
That has been forgotten for some years…

Now-a-days you go home, eat, and watch TV
To the idiot box you are glued
So many channels, Star, Zee and DD
By you, all these are viewed

With television and homework to keep you occupied,
You have no time to spare
About the habit of healthy reading
You are completely unaware…

So kids, stop and check yourself now
Start this very good habit
You’ll enjoy the same, I do guarantee
Be totally engrossed, every bit

It gives you the knowledge, makes you real smart
You spend your time in a better way
You learn new words, your language improves
You look forward to a lovely day

You know about authors, you quote a few lines
You use phrases and idioms
You speak confidently and create an impression
In the minds of your close chums

Reading is a habit that should never die
No matter what might be your age
So shut that TV and take a book
AND BEGIN WITH THAT FRONT PAGE!!

© Shanta Ramakrishnan (October 1995)

Mumbai Terror Attack - November 26, 2008.... Shanta's view

The recent terror attack in Mumbai has rattled not only the energetic city but also India as a nation. The incident has left a deep scar in the common man's mind and morale. He knows that the entire nation is watching his plight, some sympathizing and some (who might be instrumental in plotting the massacre) will be busy making the next plan of destruction.

It looks as if the young terrorists are trained meticulously in each move they ought to take, with an alternate plan if it doesn't work. They are techno savvy and they have done their homework well. They have been given enough assurance (in whatever kind it might be) so that they can forget their kith and kin, responsibilities they would have had otherwise, and concentrate only on their fanatic goal.

We, as common citizen of India should become more alert. It should become a habit for us to be suspicious of anyone strange, any act that is out-of-the-ordinary, anything that is even slightly varied. We should be careful about who we open the door to, be alert and look around in a crowded train/bus, even if it is only upto a spot where our vision can reach, be watchful of body language or expression that signal something different than what we would expect it to be. In a nutshell, we should be more observant and vigilant. As a habit, we all should have the emergency numbers (police/ ambulance/ neighbour) handy even if we can memorize them, and carry an identity card (photo-id with the contact information) on us all the time.

Our politicians, the so called 'governors' of our country, should get down from their pedestal and think of the need of the moment. Army and Air Force should have maximum man-power and excellent training. Since most of our boundaries are sea-coasts, Navy has a bigger responsibility of having alert, well-trained, non-corrupt, stringent staff who think of our nation before anything else. There should not be any dearth of funds spent in the training of any defence and para-military forces.

Judiciary should be above any other department and strict no-nonsense regulations against such destructive planning and actions be made. Verdict should be of utmost severe nature to those who have been proved guilty of terrorism in the past, so that terrorists who plan to plunder our nation in future think twice and retract their steps.

Anyone who enter India, irrespective of what route they take or who they are, should be strictly monitored, their papers, background and belongings checked thoroughly. For this to happen, we should have officers who rise above corruption. There are such officers in India no doubt, but the numbers should increase to encompass ALL authorities, public servants, including politicians.

Indian citizens should get together as one (forget about state borders, it lies only in the minds of petty silly 'netas/politicians'), create action-plans and make groups of volunteers in each locality. They should involve the local public in security drills and have discussions on emergency moves. According to me, all youngsters should get trained in commando activities at least for a year as a compulsory regulation. Self discipline, alertness, observation and quick, well-planned action might be able to save us from a similar situation in future.

© Shanta Ramakrishnan (November 2008)

Winding-up is not easy.

My daughter Preeta was leaving her job, her academic, professional and personal ties in the US for good, to return to India to get married. She was relocating her future life elsewhere. I understood her emotional upheaval and the physical strain of winding-up alone with no assistance from anyone. The poem that I sent had its effect as, according to Preeta, ‘whenever I was low, I read it and got re-energised. It was a great feeling as it boosted my morale’. I am happy that the effect was right since I wanted her to feel the invisible support. - Shanta


Winding-up is not easy

Winding-up is not easy
Closing shop is difficult
So think that there is no option
And your mind will not go tumult….

Loosening ties is heart-wrenching
Giving-up gives a mental uproar
So think positive – it’s your choice
Your life, future, and much more….

Concentrate on the work at hand
Keep a deadline for each task
Finish one; go to the next, then
Relax in the sun and bask….

‘So much work, so much to finish
And so little time’ - is what you pine
Then think of the trophy that’s close at hand
Go, win, get into the finishing line!!!

Start, begin, my little darling girl
We’ll all be together in days, just few
Think of us n you’ll get the energy
Our heart is there, and prayers too !!!

GOOD LUCK and GOD BLESS….

© Shanta Ramakrishnan
(October 2006)
--ooOoo--

THE POWER FROM ABOVE !!

There are times when we do think
That we know everything,
Then we proudly step ahead, and
Realise with a jolt in our head,
That there is actually a power above
The cool command, that we cannot shove!!

Please note that the pull He has on us
Is indeed something beyond our guess
Slowly, but surely, we come to know
Of the power He invariably shows....
So, continue to do your sensible work
The end will be sweet, as He's no jerk

Fruits of labour is always sweet
If humility in thinking, it does meet
In whatever you do, be sincere,
For the onward march, do not fear,
Since you have Him on your side,
Things will be right, as time will decide!!

© Shanta Ramakrishnan
(December 1994)

Good Deed, Indeed!!

This is a narration of my feelings one sweaty afternoon in 1997, in the crowded Vidyavihar train station in Mumbai. A spontaneous gesture and a good reaction, what an unforgettable experience! - Shanta

Good Deed, Indeed!
Today is a good day
It makes me feel so nice
I fed a little begger
With a musical device

He was small, mere six year old
With sharp, twinkling eyes
He had a heavy instrument
And he played for a price

He was frail, a little waif
But had strength from within
It was melody to our ears
That came from hands, so thin

He got some alms, just a few
And got off the crowded train
Stopped besides the snacks bar
And stared at the wares lain

He looked hungry, but was quiet
I liked his stance and pride
I bought him food and saw him eat
His instrument kept aside

He didn't talk, but just the nod
Said so much, I could see
He was poor, but what a talent!
He was a prodigy!!

I felt happy I could help
Just feed a needy chap
I wish, in time, he gets a name
His poverty should snap!!

© Shanta Ramakrishnan
(May 1997)

Why Wo(men's) Day??

Ajay yelled, "Hey, come here Bharathi,
What is this day called?"
"March 8 ? It's Women's Day!" she replied,
"Oh!" Ajay looked appalled...

"Why give them the day's glory?
What's so special? Why Women's Day?"
Bharathi was patient, ready to make the time
She was happy to have her say....

"There are many kinds of women,
Throughout this vast universe,
Some well settled, right on top,
A few, struggling or worse...

Woman has always been very strong
Unlike the general notion,
She is a pillar, even while alone,
With a variety of ideas n emotions

Though oft termed, the 'weaker sex'
Ironically she's otherwise,
She is as strong as a solid rock
Creative, humane, and very very nice

She can prove herself in any field
And show she is second to none
Lends a shoulder when you're down
She's practical, a compassionate one

Behind the scene, she is a great support,
She is sharp and articulate,
She has a bright rainbow of qualities
She makes a wonderful mate...

Physically she can beget children,
A godly quality, so unique,
She bears the pain, she rears the kids
She makes them strong, not meek

With all the above woven together,
She still woos you, O, Man!!
So one day in three sixty five (365) days,
Dedicate to the WOMAN - you can!!!!"

© Shanta Ramakrishnan
(March 08, 2004)

SIES-1969 School Reunion...Down the memory lane

It was a reunion with a difference!! Many students who completed SSC (Std XI) from SIES High School, Matunga, Mumbai in March 1969, met after 39 years in the school premises on February 24, 2008. It was an emotional and nostalgic experience for all (now in 50s), who attended the reunion. Here is a recap of the event in my words. Shanta.

It all started with a mere phone-call
That was Vasantha, my SIES school pal
She wondered if we could all meet
Surprised, I thought, “What a treat!”

So Dr. Mani, Santhanam, Vasantha and a few
Started the ball rolling, and as if by cue
Many enlisted, ready for reunion
Happy and eager, that’s my opinion!

On Sunday morn, February Twenty Fourth
I had my heart pounding, as I set forth
Met a few friends, sooner than I thought
At Nahur station, the same train, we got

Ananthi, Janaki and Gauri were there
‘Hi’ and happy smiles, all of us shared
We moved real fast, not to be late,
Soon we were at the SIES gate…

From here on I express my own feelings
Going down memory lane… it was so reeling
With nostalgia, I stood a minute, transfixed
Those years in flash-back, in memory, fixed.

We entered our school, and saw a beaming face
It was Dr. Mani- Subbu, to friends of schooldays
Suddenly I spotted a familiar smile
R.Mahalakshmi’s, sure, I could tell from a mile!

C.E. Geeta, the lady from Syndicate Bank
My bench mate, we e’en shared some ranks!
Bhanu the fair dame, teacher from Bangalore
Who too was in Sion, I remembered for sure….

Then a dazzling smile hovered, and hit me hard
Mmm.. must be someone who takes you off-guard,
The lady’s elegance made me ponder
Yes, it was A. Radha!! I got my answer!!

Dear Rathi walked in with her quiet hubby
I thought of the days when she was very chubby
Slim, well dressed, her daughters married…
Now she is a grandma, a charming one indeed

We registered our contacts, met more classmates
Some arrived with spouses, their life-mates
We were then directed to the breakfast site
The food was delicious, we tasted every bite

When in school, we never talked to boys
Still, faces were familiar, of some of the guys
Soon we all connected, with laughter and uproar
The SIES-69 Reunion began to soar!

Teachers were escorted carefully to the seats
Most, in late 70s, were happy with this Meet
It was our privilege to have them over
To pay our respects to the teaching staff, ever

Vasantha graced by lighting the lamp
Amid hurray, cheers and loud claps
The meeting commenced with national anthem, then
‘Guru Vandana’ sung by daughter of Santhanam

The welcome speech, followed by SIES history,
Sri. Muthuswami Iyer’s photo, garlanded with dignity
The school’s growth was showed by a presentation
The visual ascent, with a catchy oration

We spotted chalks, duster and a black board
Algebra class of KRK Sir! We were not bored!!
Going back to our teens, we all sat down
Answering (a+b)2 in chorus, without any frown

We could feel the animation in Sir’s voice
Knew the commitment to his professional choice
He taught us Maths, contemporary style too,
The hall shook with laughter without any taboo.

The teachers were honored by a gift and bouquet
A token of respect from our heart, I say
Display of emotions unabashedly shown -
The eternal bond of Guru Shishya is well known!

Radha, Ravi, Shekar, Vasantha and a few
Exchanged views of SIES, then and now
Dr. Mani (Subbu) talked of commitment
As an active alumni, and got our assent!

Then the intro began, each one got a chance
To give a small gist of self, without any prance
Listening to the progress of family n profession,
We cheered everyone, at the good oration.

Our friend and batch-mate Selvaraj dear
Was the caterer, his profession was clear!
We went on to taste the lovely lunch laid
Amid food and chatter, compliments were paid

To continue this bond of Reunion Day
Each February we meet, on the last Sunday
This was the unanimously taken decision
‘ Giving back to SIES’ is our mission…..

With points coming up, as if by magic,
Discussions of donations n service were mere logic
A plan to lead, and be an active troupe
That will be our SIES-1969 GROUP!

Soon it was time for me to leave
Quite a bit in a day, we had achieved
My heart was full, and my eyes were moist
I consider this Reunion, a new flag hoist!

©Shanta Ramakrishnan (A.K.Shanta/SIES1969/XI-D)