Steeped in Play

When playing with you
I never questioned who you were
and had neither shyness nor fear
while my life was also so lively.

Then in early mornings you would call
me from my sleep as if you were my own
comrade and lead me running
from one glade to another glade.

On those days I never cared to know
the meaning of songs you sang for me
but my voice picked up the tunes
while my heart danced to their beat.

Now with the playtime over
a sudden sight has come on me.
The world with eyes bent to your feet
stands in awe with all her silent stars!

Adopted from Tagore’s Gitanjali, poem 97

Henry Victor          03.12.2012

Farewell Speech

As I, this blessed one, take leave to continue
my journey let these be my parting words:

I have thus far seen nothing
but the unsurpassable,
and tasted the hidden honey of this lotus
expanding in the ocean of light.

And in this playhouse of forms
so infinite, I have had my play
and I have caught sight of him
that is unendingly formless.

My whole body and my limbs
are thrilled, already, with his touch
who is beyond touch, and if the end
already has come, let it so be.

Adopted from Tagore’s Gitanjali, poem 96

Henry Victor          03.12.2012