Bibhu Padhi

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Doing

You want to do so many things
now, now, and now, as though

losing them were death and forgetting.
So many things rush inside your mind,

each as important as this vibrancy, even as
the same mind needs rest and sleep.

Each small possession tells you how
it has gradually lost its humble name.

You fondly recall the time when they
first came, each with its unique shine.

They have grown slowly old with you.
Earth’s years have overshadowed them

with their sheer speech about time
and waste as they have struggled

to overwhelm you.
And yet things must be done

in time in order that you may extend
your own time, here, from now until

tomorrow, years and centuries
from now. Maybe, therefore these

​endless needs, this ominous thirst, this
hunger of a lifetime, so fondly allowed by you.
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