As we grow up
Do our hearts grow small?
From the size of the earth,
To the size of a ball?
Because as we grow,
Some changes begin to show:
From always being helpful and kind
To getting lost in the vagaries of life;
From hugging our parents with delight
To forgetting to call them at night.
From extending stays with your grandparents
To paying them flying visits;
From being best friend and confidantes,
To becoming mere acquaintances.
As we grow up
Do we learn more fear?
Because as we grow,
The changes are subtle, yet clear:
The changes are subtle, yet clear:
From crying at the sight of injustice,
To pushing it under the carpet;
From promising to change the world,
To defining success in material terms.
From having big dreams
To finding solace in safety;
From wishing to explore the world
To staying put in the comfort of your city.
From being vulnerable
To putting up innumerable barriers.
From always ready to trust and love,
To always finding reasons to give up.
As we grow up,
Why do we forget what it’s like
To having dreams and the possibility of them coming to life?
Or reveling in the delight of friendships or fights?
And as we grow up
Alas! Why do we not realize -
That it’s small moments and joys of life
That are the ones making us feel alive!