Pavananandaji's Poem

As he was moving on the minibus to the Internet café, Dada
Pavanandaji was struck by the overwhelming scene of desperation of the
residents of Banda Aceh. It induced in him these poetic verses entitled,

Banda Aceh:


A distant voice resonated your sweet name, Banda Aceh,

The roaring of the waves and strong winds are gone,

Replaced by soft winds

That sweep your dusty streets.


The laughter of children long forgotten returns again

But punctured by dreams of mothers wailing for lost ones.


I see many houses closed in the streets never to open again,

Whose dwellers have been carried away by the angry ocean

Never to return.


Sweet smiling faces greet me as I walk

But when I penetrate the eyelids of those who smile,

I see hidden tears in their eyes.


Let us all put our effort to understand You,

O Mother Earth,

So You may never punish us in your anger.


People of distant lands are all gathered

To give a warming embrace to those in distress

May courage and strength accompany everyone

So everyone may become a beacon of light in time of need.


So that the Earth may become a place

Where all will sing and dance in unison

And where true love will emerge.


Dada Pavanananda, Banda Aceh,

15.2.05