Welcoming the new year - A message from mother nature

Dr Ranbir Laishram *

Yes, my children !
This past year,
I know you had a hard time,
Combating the tiny 'Contagion',
Your own making.
Your perception,
Calling the contagion,
My revenge is evocative.
All through the ages,
I embrace you with all humility -
Young and old, good and bad.
What not I gave you ?
Whatever you do,
Did I do ever resist ?

You should realise, my children,
I have existed without you,
Ever since this planet was formed.
I don't need you,
But I'm indispensable to your survival.
It is your own sib -
Egocentric, arrogant ones,
who are going for self-annihilation,
Making this planet unlivable.
Exploitation, exploration and destruction,
And man - made constructs.
You have wounded me beyond recovery.
But I have no spite.
Despite my various distress signals,
You continue to destroy your own habitation.
It is time to call it a day.
For, I have got my right too.

Yes, my children !
Amid global restrictions and chaos,
I know you carry with you,
A baggage full of grief, worry and despair...
But I tell you my children,
It is our own world,
The same Earth existing over generations.
If you accept your mistakes, learn lessons,
And make amends
Conserve, preserve and protect,
My ecosystems.
I forgive you all,
For, I remain as a mother,
A saviour for you all.
I welcome you all to this new year,
Different from previous years,
And I bless you all
With peace, prosperity and good health.