Realisations change the air

It was the start of ‘Arab spring’

After two long weeks of self house arrest,

the curfew, noises of exploding tear gas shells-

Random gunshots-

Incessant copter blade rotations above head, deafening ears,

Periodical alarm of ambulances…

Only working class being, soldiers, doctors and nurses!

Streets filled with armed soldiers in black.

The days were fading bit by bit,

And every vehicle strictly checked.

The soldiers were celebrated to be of the -

Most brutal tendencies, shot one 

Without another thought !

The men in black always covered their face-

Only eyes seen, and wondered what those spoke…

And one day, we were waiting our turn,

In the school bus with kids

To be checked for arms…

And they checked, that's when 

One of the soldier asked my fellow teacher -

“Teacher, do you remember me?”

I saw the teacher who was afraid of-

The soldiers in black, cursing under breath

For scaring the kids with the guns and stares,

Had her eyes wide open,

There was surprise, and awe…

“Can I see your face?”

As if realization struck, she was abrupt 

To tell, “I am sorry, you may not be allowed”

He removed the black scarf, 

Showing young face, smiling…

“Remember?”

She uttered his name lovingly,

And added: “ God bless you bachcha”

The air had changed…

It was warmth and only warmth.