By Dr Saidas M. “Sai” Ranade ( www.mirthmystic.com ; E-mail: smranade@swbell.net)

Rafi’s voice sometimes brings tears to my eyes.
Don’t worry; it is one of life’s joys.
Listening to Lata sing, watching Sachin play
Nothing compares to that I must say.
Music AR Rahman, writing Tagore
Recipe for happiness galore.
Sight of Taj Mahal, Tirupati’s bells
I can face any of life’s travails.
The dialogue of Gabbar
A ride in a double-decker
Raman, Khorana, Sen, Chandrasekhar
Not a victim but a warrior.
Alfonso, Ayurved, Basmati, turmeric
Heal me when I am sick.
Sanskrit, yoga, zero
I feel like a sitar-hero.
Chai, roti, chutney, mirchi
Vivekananda, Ramana Maharishi
Unity in diversity.
Kabir, Mira, Sai, Guru Nanak,
Help me when I am stuck.
Mahavir’s penance, Buddha’s meditation
My soul’s liberation.
Gandhi’s fast, Netaji’s fight
Options to make things right.
Shivaji’s sword, Ramdass Swami’s advice
Don’t sit, act when you hear cries.
Indian education, American opportunity
It is the ultimate door to creativity.
Foundation Indian, building American
It is an unbelievable combination.
The journey I have taken will only be worthwhile
When I can make the universe smile.
All those parents’ sacrifices and teachers’ toils will be redeemed
If I can contribute more than an Indian and an American combined.
During these times for reflection
And, when everything is said and done
I realized I’m the lucky one!

—– +++—– +++ —– ++++—–