Winnipeg, Manitoba
Last Day in Winni
Winnipeg has so few hills, but since I arrived, I have been contemplating and shaping up a poem about a hill, Govardhana, which is held sacred in India, attracting people from all over the globe. The poem:
The Living Hill
The god of rain, Indra, became extremely irate
Pride is often the big part of his game
With thunder, clouds and lightning so great
He exerts this power to maintain fame
What incited him so was a talkative child
Who put his village on a paradigm shift
Instead of a day to honour a god so wild
The boy proposed a new direction, creating the rift
The boy was opposed to the poor watering this god does
That rivers, lakes, oceans already have a supply
That he’s off target which should cause one to pause
“Better to honour the green hill nearby
We benefit from its many grasses and plants
Food for our animals and food for us
To the hill, cows and brahmans we give thanks
With a feast and a fest with so little fuss”
The villagers agreed to this new concept
But the god of rain was vengeful indeed
In response to the boy’s challenging precept
Indra released his weapons with speed
The downpour of rain was very devastating
It came down like cold, wet pillars of pain
The cries for help were unhesitating
The boy acted swiftly with ease and no strain
Placing his hands at the base of the hill
And working his way under the heavy mound
He lifted it with the valour of a hero’s thrill
While under its shelter came souls from all around
The deluge of water lasted seven long days
Amazed and saved were inhabitants of the town
Who were spared of shameful Indra’s craze
As the boy’s incredible feat put his pride down
All was restored to normal for a day in the life
A jealous god was humbled, all were happy too
As well as the living hill that became so light
By the strength of the boy, Krishna, of a dark hue
Our story hails from five millenia past
When Krishna was offered a deserved arm massage
The volume of miracles continues to last
By Govardhan hill, which is not a mirage
-
Composed by Bhaktimarga Swami,
The Walking Monk©
May the Source be with you!
6km
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