I just came back from what indeed was a blessed visit to a couple of places in the southern Indian state of Karnataka that are nestled in the very midst of nature. What’s more, these are looked after with utmost care by the amazing folks of Mycelium and Magnolia Mist.
No wonder it brought out the poet in me (though I must ask you to excuse me for metrical and other irregularities).
It was not possible for me to capture all the beauty that took me in its kind embrace, so presenting just a glimpse of what I felt and experienced in the lines that follow.
All I See is Song and Dance
From the stream singing its song through the rocks
To the hills covered in cloud and mist,
Wherever I listen, wherever I glance;
There’s one and only one gist—
All I see is song and dance.
The magnolia that stands for a thousand years
Makes me, takes me, shakes me to the core.
I feel its touch of kindness, in each and every pore.
My heart jumps with joy, like a deer doing a prance—
All I see is song and dance.
Not able to thank it enough, in silence I bow my head,
And walk on to see butterflies on the path ahead.
They move slow, then swift; my spirits get a lift;
Watching them mud-puddle puts me in a trance—
All I see is song and dance.
The vine snake flicks its tongue as I go near;
I touch its tail, yes, with an ounce of fear
And a silent request: “Forgive me, O dear.”
It does not skip a beat, and I do not miss the chance—
All I see is song and dance.
Rows upon rows of hills lush green,
Many of them never before seen;
I stand transfixed before the bounteous expanse,
Listening to the birds and the bees in nature’s romance—
All I see is song and dance.
Frogs named-unnamed croak and dance;
Cicadas far and near make the air thrill with cries shrill;
Rain comes crashing down, then goes pitter-patter, still.
It’s all right here in Coorg, dear, it’s not Italy or France—
All I see is song and dance.
(With thanks to FactorDaily.com and gratitude to everyone who made this visit possible.)
