Dare

a poem by Jayati

Born to humble parents
we were taught respect
adherence; traditional manners
and perseverance.
They gave us love to spread enough
understanding and tolerance.
Our friends too came
from similar backgrounds
even though with different
religious views.
Without an iota of discrimination
in our minds
harmonious we grew.
What went wrong in between the lines?
We are yet to find a clue…
Flames torched our steady existence
lives turned a pale hue,
and upside down.
Pointing fingers on
unsuspecting innocents
Culprits went underground.
Never mind we still have time
To nurse our afflicted wounds
Get back to our old ties-
And stand united strong as ever taking our detractors.
Throwing an open challenge, “Adhere to peace
Like brave-hearts instead of igniting violence, you slimy cowards.”