Poems from Young and Old -  To My Grown-Up Son

P N Munshi 

My hands were busy through the day.

I didn't have much time to play..

The little games you asked me to

I didn't have much time for you.

I'd wash your clothes, I'd sew and cook

But when you'd bring your picture book

And ask me, please, to share your fun,

I'd say, "A little later, son.

I'd tuck you in all safe at night

And hear your prayers, turn out the light,

Then tiptoe softly to the door,

I wish I'd stayed a minute more

For life is short, and years rush past,

A little boy grown up so fast,

No longer is he at your side,

His precious secrets to confide.

The picture books are put away,

There are no children's games to play,

No goodnight kiss, no prayers, to hear

That all belongs to yester year.

My hands, once busy, now lie still,

The days are long and hard to fill,

I wish I could go back and do,

The little things you asked me to

Courtesy:  P N Munshi and February 1996 Koshur Samachar