A TRIBUTE TO A GREAT SOUL

(Dr. Abdul Kalam)

As millions of people, the world over, are busy paying their tribute to you,

I see you in a totally different light and present a different point of view.

People are saying, over and over again, that 'may your soul rest in peace',

I would say that your mind and soul were always 'at peace' and 'at ease'.

And it's this state of mind that helped you achieve so much in your lifetime,

Even though for fame, money and position, you never really cared a dime.

You had a fiery passion for life with which you wanted to ignite young minds,

You just believed in giving nothing but your very best to situations of all kinds.

Your love for youth and seeing a bright future in them, you never ever disguised,

Hence you did not leave a single opportunity to be with them and be their guide.

Your desire to realize your dreams never let you sleep, your dreams were selfless,

And inspired millions not only to dream but fulfill dreams through efforts endless.

As for your pristine love for your motherland, it was so exemplary and evident,

To millions you have taught the true spirit of following religion by being prudent.

Above all you were a human being par excellence and so very down to earth,

Even though of talent,  true spirit and a techno savvy mind you had no dearth.

All those who wish to offer you an ode today should realize that the only way,

It can be done is to imbibe the values you believed and practiced night and day.

The deep underlying message conveyed through these words, dedicated to a noble soul,

Is not to write about him for effect only today but to make his dreams for India, your goal!