I Can Move Mountains
As the ‘tick-tock’ sound falls in my ears, and its incessant refrain drops like a thud,
My memory unwinds to years fled when we grew up under our parental roof.
Plodding miles through country lanes, with the weight of satchel breaking our backs,
We walked together hand in hand to the village school near the parish church.
Our days in school were so much fun, laurels and trophies, we had won.
Friends we hoarded to our heart’s content who made our worlds bright and gay.
Eager to teach you the arts I learnt, like an arduous master, gave you drills.
Longed to see you fare on stage and sweep the floor with eloquence strong.
Ever and anon, through smiles and giggles, through every twist and turn of life,
We were together like a pair of twins, prodding each other to move ahead.
You grew up blooming in age and skills with pleasing manners and a winning smile.
At times with sibling envy, I watched you stealing every heart.
You excelled me in looks and skills, surpassed me in brain and brawn,
Stole the chunk of parental love, but never I grudged your edge on me.
We dwelt on many a similar thought, cherished umpteen dreams and hopes,
We stayed late on rainy nights, sharing hot and spicy tales,
Of passionate friendships formed and forged, of infatuations felt and faded,
Of scary moments encountered…of daring deeds performed….
Secrets ever eager to confide, longings always openly shared,
Together we spun the lace of life, together we strove to reach our goals.
It was (is) a bond too deep for words which time or space could never erase.
We chased each other in eager search like hungry cats sniffing for milk.
I could read even a passing thought that fleeted across your sentient face.
Knew every ache and pain that darted through your feeble heart.
Saw your struggle to ward off your woes that once intensely plagued your heart.
I sensed how wearily you tried in vain to conceal your grief and wear a smile.
It was an agony to see you grieve and tried my best to bring you cheer.
With rising thrill, watched you glow and in time, you bloomed in joy!
Igniting sparks of parting pain, you flew to an alien land.
Each time your voice trails across, I feel you near – just one breath away.
Of all our siblings, dear young sis, in my heart you hold the prime place.
For you I'm ready to move mountains or even pluck the moon from the sky!
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