The most ungrateful being of God

that is “me” now and the “me” in past.

Let me strive to turn a new leaf

from ungratefulness to be grateful.

When in childhood I did cry….

and fuss over the foods without a shame

Mom said all the foods I must try….

I gave her scornful looks with the ugly glare

She would give up and cook once again..

and I  thought that’s how I made her tame.

I was ungrateful, sure I was…

For I valued not her love and care….

that could see not her child go hungry to bed.

Whence I grew, I didn’t look back…..

at the numerous hours dad struggled outdoors.

While mum played with me and cared for me

although she was exhausted doing plenty chores.

 

I never expressed any gratitude for the efforts

that made me rise and shine a capable man.

An occasional word of thankfulness I did utter

when I got a new toy car or my cricket bat….

and I flashed those with pride wherever I sat.

I saw to be grateful at the worldly objects of pleasure

But failed to appreciate the bigger gift of their upbringing.

I hated the early schooling years of education

that now I realise was one of the most precious of gifts

for which they struggled and even cut corners

so I became that successful man they wished to see.

 

Ungrateful I have been all my life as I flash back

Those demands they fulfilled of vacations abroad

that came somewhat dearly but nevertheless.

The branded stuff that became my choice…

was handed down with glee without a thought….

and at most times without a fuss.

Did I ever feel grateful for that luxury?

I fretted and fumed,

yet again and again….

That I didn’t like their restrictions….

though they said they thought well of me

How could I be so selfish, the child I was..

unappreciative and complainful.

 

I saw not the hidden burden of the loans

and even failed to observe the tears held behind

as mother wiped her face in pretence .

Oh! I am so ashamed, so very ashamed

of the ungrateful being of God I am.

That now I realize all those pains

and the silent heartaches….

As I upbring my little ones….

with all the care that I may dare.

 

Remembering dad’s long working hours endless

and mum’s nostalgic embrace boundless

And now I express my gratitude

and ask of their forgiveness

at being so blind to their loved ness

when they are ageing and need my care.

I ask thee God to give me strength

to return some favours towards their end

of keeping them happy and content

without any malice or selfishness.