Let’s Unplug For A While…

Let’s unplug for a while
From the havoc wrought by an infinitesimal virus
As constant cacophony drops dead
And the sound of death becomes deafening
Let’s disconnect to connect again
With the non-stop humdrum of life

Let’s unplug for a while
Not because we are flailing and falling
As we stagger to gain control
But continue to succumb in rising numbers
Trying hard to hang on to hope
Though every eye mirrors, delusion and despair

Let’s unplug for a while
To swarm the roads, crowd the metros,
Flock the markets, visit the shrines
Rubbing shoulder against shoulder
Holding hand in hands, just like old times
Shouting, giggling, chattering, cursing
To once again drown in that cheerful din

Let’s unplug for a while
To run wild like little kids
Splashing in pool, dancing in rain
Summer barbeques, winter bonfires
To tinkle the glasses & laugh with friends once again

Let’s unplug for a while
For our kids to once again race on sand & build castles
Swoosh down a cliff, breezing their bicycles
Play hopscotch & cricket in open grounds
To once again have soda, shakes & cookies passing around
Kids over for playdates & staycation, home filled with happy sounds

Let’s unplug for a while
To once again embrace spirit of Eid ul Fitr & Diwali
Drench in cheek by jowl Holi camaraderie
Pray for our brothers’ longevity, as we tie Rakhee
Sing carols, make merry, gathered around the Christmas tree
To finally propose this valentine, going down on the knees

Now when closeness can kill and distance can save
But isolation without solidarity is sterile
When everything seems liquid and liable to melt
And hard truths and durable wisdom, we seek

Let’s all UNPLUG
To once again INTIMATELY be part of CROWDS
and rejoice amidst beaucoup de bruit

March 27, 2020