Third Class Travel

Crowded Train

(based on Third Class in Indian Railways by Mahatma Gandhi)

utter confusion
admission beyond
authorized number

no order, no cleanliness
repulsive din and noise
bribes procure comfort

rush of passengers
cannot be stayed
guards push in even more

talk to management at the terminus

unbearable pressure
exhibitions of temper
free fights break-out

foul refreshments
served by dirtier hands
fasting makes the trip better

flies feast on each morsel
wasps do their work
where flies fail

talk to management at the terminus

spiting and smoking
despite protestations
sitting on dirty floors

lying in filth, no benches
continuation of insanitation
undermines health and morality

dumb and helpless
third-class travelers
too afraid to complain

talk to management at the terminus

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Written for: Another Author Tuesday ~ Writing Challenge One  Picture taken from that page.

Also posted on Best Post of The Week

Benediction

Mahatma Gandhi - Namaste

bring reconciliation
redeem from persecution
rock the opposition
fill with compassion
fight off starvation
grieve sinful condition
reign in proportion
reward our recitation
mercy on our generation

express devotion
declare benediction
ordain with obligation
praise urgent declamation
bless vocal improvisation
glorify breathing relaxation
proclaim his name with satisfaction
commit your spirit to salvation
worship through musical notation

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Written for: Monday Morning Writing Prompt: Sacred Music.

Photo Credit: Food For The Spiritual Soul’s Blog – Mahatma Gandhi