Through the umbrella the rain
Drips on my head and does not
Mind falling on a balding pate
That does not look like growing
Back again for all the herbal oil
Smeared lovingly on it every day
I secretly wanted to get wet like
This, not enough to catch a cold
Yet enough to remember it by ----
I have run out of drops meant
To prevent dryness of the eyes
Brought on by endless gazing at
That take the mind away
From all that is falling off ----
I loftily look at all those taking
Shelter before wayside shops
The Mary shrine is all lit up for
Her weeklong festival close on
The heels of the Mari temple fete ---
I pray to both when I stir out
And when I come back unscathed
Not without wondering when it will be
When I have to leave and never come back.