Frozen Soul

The thronged corner of the street seems to await my return. The familiar surroundings, the faces trying to lose their identity in the hordes of masked people and the canopy of lights above my head-they all are welcoming me with open arms. Managing my staggering steps I secure my usual place where I stand quietly resting my back against the wall. Amidst the observant eyes, I seem unnoticed, which is ironical. The smell of the delicacies wafting through the air satisfies my hunger for food everyday. Usually when the luck is on my side, the bread donated by a kind soul or someone’s left over makes me content. The bustling street, the decorated shops- they all were sinking in into the Christmas spirit. Today the business has been good so far. The coins tinkling in my pocket will help me survive for the next two days. The vagabond standing nearby strums his guitar and belts out ‘Jingle Bells’ which helps me forget my melancholy temporarily while I silently wish that everyday was Christmas so that a hungry soul like me would never go without a mouthful of food. Though deep inside I know it is not the kind of wish God will be willing to grant-even Santa Claus needs some rest! As the chilly night starts getting chillier, I decide to stay on duty for a few more minutes trying out my luck-before I bid adieu to the glistening night. My stiff hand begs for mercy from the passers-by and suddenly a kid hands over a crispy note. With an innocent smile he wishes ‘Merry Christmas!’ When the night seems to lose its charm and the stars fade away-I finally decide to find a pavement to rest my tired muscles. So with a smile on my face and a whistle on my lips I embark on a journey with a determination to find my way….

Pooja