The Chai Shop

Tired of the bus ride from my village towards my dream city;

I took off from the bus and went to a chai shop where the bus usually stops for some ride break.

I adjusted myself to a table and called for the chai....

A boy barely twelve, came with the kettle and glass, his eyes were filled with glee.

With his soft hand, he was holding that hot kettle and was in a hurry,. for others were also waiting.

I couldn't forget that innocent look he held, I looked at him as he was serving the tea with total perfection.

Those who will carry our nation one day are carrying loads, canisters, garbage and stones to a construction site.

The eyes which should be filled with dreams, are filled with tears and silence.

The mind which should play in the ocean of dreams are calculating the family expenditure and loans.

The hands which should hold toys and books are holding hot kettle.

I was lost in my thoughts when I heard the bus horn giving a signal to starting the journey again.

I quickly finished my tea and moved in the bus and found my seat.

Through the window of the bus, I saw him pacing back and forth to the customer's table in the shop.

I felt guilty for not giving him any money, but would that solve the problem??