Mirth
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The night rang with Dad's laughter -
We walked silently through deserted sidewalks.
I did not comprehend the joke -
still the
Rarity of mirth in our household-
I recoiled on the moonless night
As his dark teeth flashed behind
His face of full beard.
He then got down on his knees at the Ganesh temple.
We walked straight to home then -
His legs, for once, gathered strength
To steer away from straying thoughts of alcohol's pull.
Love, statquesque Mother, waiting at home,
Smiled as dread got killed -
At least for one night.
Maybe tomorow I will leave the house,
the heavy quilt, the soft pillow,
the warmth of Mother's shadow...
mG.
***