Didu

Two beds against two walls
Two green walls facing each other
And covered with photos framed
Of kids who had grown and fled the coop
Some pictures of their beloved dead

I am three years old jumping on and off one bed
I watch my parents enter solemn
Through the front door.
Their eyes soulful red rimmed
Downcast head
In their hands
Yet another photo
To hang on the green wall today.

She is so gorgeous
Eyes brilliant smile like revelation
I admire the heavy garlands around her neck
And vaguely recall
This black and white visage
Used to walk around these rooms
Silver haired sepia skinned
Jet eyed ageless maid.

Around these green walled
Little rooms
Where my grandmother stayed.
Her mother-in-law who once lived
Now looks down
Tender delicate benediction
Frozen in eternal motion
Above our heads.

(c) Amrita Valan 2018