Tulsi Dances

One today, and Tulsi dances,

to a Bangra beat,

in Dad’s embrace bright-eyed

her hand held high.

Passing this precious parcel

arm to arm, disarmed

privileged friends, family,

briefly hold

a living miracle.

The music of their hearts

stops when they pass her on,

but share — the other’s heart

takes up the song.

Fruit-decorated cake

with blow-out candles.

Fingerfuls of sweetness

feed the faces of delighted family.

Balloons, and bubbles,

reflecting light and bright

satin colours,

orbs of momentary joy,

bursting, bang,

or soapy pop — a shock;

a weary Tulsi tear

of disappointment;

orbs of light she sees

can never fright.

Grandparents dote,

Mother glories, Dad is

justified in pride.

Their child of love

dispenses that

of which she’s made.

And we her devotees

enter her presence

and our god, goddess within

bows to the goddess

shining from her heart.