‘Bimla’

She is very young… a rag-picker by profession and also manages to study whenever gets time. She says: ‘she has to work and support her family as they are very poor’. She might not have footwear to wear but she is indeed high in spirit…We tend to get so much involved with our lives and our so called problems that we forget, there are people who smile even when life shows them the real dark days. I wish from the bottom of my heart, that one day I am able to contribute my life for the cause of education and betterment of such underprivileged children.

Imps of mischief,
Barefoot in the dust,
Grinning, mocking, even as
They beg you for a crust.

No angels these,
Just hungry eyes
And eager hands
To help you sympathize…

They don’t want love,
They don’t seek pity,
They know there’s nothing
In this heartless city

But a kindred need
In those who strive
For power and pelf
Though only just alive!

They know your guilt,
They’ll take your money,
And if you give too much
They’ll find you funny.

Because that’s what you are-
You’re just a joke-
Your life is soft
And theirs grim and smoke,

And yet they shout and sing
And do not thank your giving.
You’ll fuss and fret through life
While they do all the living.

– Ruskin Bond