Spirit ‘Unlocked’ by Neha Kirpal
Ten years from now when we look back at these days
It may seem funny how we were so scared of a malaise—
Wearing masks and frantically washing our hands,
Trying to avoid the inevitable.
The virus may no longer be dangerous in the distant future.
There are bigger threats looming large in our hearts and minds—
Ones that have no external vaccine
And need to be cured by us alone.
Things may return to ‘normal’ sooner than later
But I hope the change is for the better
And makes us kinder human beings,
Who can dream beautiful dreams…
***
I remember fondly the days when we visited restaurants
And met friends over lunch and dinner.
The lockdown has made us value small things...
I have learnt gratitude.
The kitchen and I were never the best of friends,
And yet, I suddenly found myself baking!
Not relying on takeout anymore…
I have learnt new skills.
I was dependent on my maid for everything—
Even the little things that I do myself now,
Without blinking an eye…
I have learnt self-reliance.
My head would be clamored with thoughts of
Things to do and places to go to.
They’ve all been replaced by peace of mind…
I have learnt silence.
I was constantly running from pillar to post,
checking off items on a to-do list,
And now my only outing is a walk in the park…
I have learnt patience.
I have read lovely books,
Watched amazing films,
And heard the nicest songs…
I have learnt happiness.
***
Life is a collection of such fleeting moments.
I’m spending quality time with family who matter most…
When we look back at our lives
These are the ones we’ll hold onto and cherish …
The lockdown has helped hold up a mirror
That reflects what we look like from within
And truly see ourselves for the people that we are.
I hope we like what we see…
Neha Kirpal is a freelance writer and editor based in New Delhi, India. She is the author of Wanderlust for the Soul an e-book collection of short stories based on travel in different parts of the world. Her hobbies include reading, writing, travelling, watching films and listening to music. You can access all her published work under different categories in various magazines, newspapers, journals and websites here: www.nehakirpal.wordpress.com