[This poem is a gentle self-introspection for those consumed with pomposity and self-importance]. 
 
There’s war in the air,  
And the ball is in your court;  
Your intentions are threadbare,  
Kindly take note. 
 
And while still water runs deep,  
The water is fast and churning;  
While you drowned in your sleep,  
You missed a lot of learning. 
 
You have a craving for invention 
In diabolical schemes of our setting;  
Power-plays call for intervention,  
You don’t know what you’re getting. 
 
The filibusterer sets the tone 
For the clique of old-timers;  
Stupidity oft shines alone,  
Like knowledge from a primer. 
 
Those who claim to lead 
Shall profess the laws of equity,  
Most leaders fail to read 
The language of accountability.  
 
Tales of self-importance abound;  
Of tempers thrown in for good measure;  
Your intentions are now run aground,  
Is paining others your only pleasure?  
 
There’s no future in the past,  
I know what’s there in the end:  
The fleeting present does not last,  
Let humility be your friend. 
 
Your brief encounters with people,  
May leave marks faint and dark:  
Some impressions create a ripple,  
While others ignite a spark. 
 
Take care, be nice, and empathize;  
Watch out, be sure, and communicate;  
All mind and no heart cannot sympathize;  
How would you want others to reciprocate?  
 
 
Copyright © SC 
22nd February 2007 
Mumbai.
Subroto Chatterjee
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