National anthem
I don't like to think of myself
As belonging to one nation now
I like to think of myself
As a citizen of this blue planet, insignificant
In the vast expanses of the universe.
I want to think of myself
As a human being
On Planet Earth
Not as belonging to one country.
Then I listen to the strains
Of the national anthem.
The music swells to the final crescendo
Of "Jaya He!"
I wonder what it is...
The lyrics, or the music....
That brings the tears of joy
Unbidden, to my eyes,
And makes deep emotion
Spill down my cheeks?
Does it mean, after all,
That I am, indeed, only Indian?
Does the music, touching my soul
And making me hold my breath in awe....
Place me in just one nation on this globe?