THE BODY CLOCK

PREFACE

We humans claim ourselves to be the wisest of all species. We apply emotions to vanquish the arts.  We harness intelligence to triumph the modern sciences. We exploit time to maneuver our vocations. And we use power to conquer the universe. Equipped with this established wisdom, we are fully aware of what goes on in and around the world. Yet we pretend to be blissfully ignorant of what takes place inside our very own body- often using and abusing it until it is too late.
      I wrote this poem after my husband was suddenly diagnosed with an eye problem and had to undergo multiple surgeries. This incident proved to be an eye opener for me. I hope by reading this poem, a few others will be influenced too. It is precisely the assets that are marked complementary in the shelf of Life, are the ones that we often tend to undervalue. It could be Nature- not treasuring the all- powerful Earth, Fire, Water and Air. It could be Democracy- not realizing the worth of freedom.  It could be Affection- not being there for the loved ones. Or it could be yourself- not listening to your body clock.  However, it is never too late to appreciate, cherish and focus on anything that is offered free of cost. For sometimes, the damages can prove to be quite dear. 




The Poem

How complex
the working of a body clock
how precise
every tick
every tock
Each hour
minute
second
a dream not accounted for
until one hears the trrrrrring……
an alarm bell rings
a morning sings
the melancholic song of  warning.
How dear
each part of the body clock
how precious
every tick
every tock
how different each piece
how unique its lease.
A complimentary meter of submission
A mechanical marvel of precision
A dangerous dial of indecision.
Without any assurance
of a lifelong insurance
each hour
minute
second
how valuable, how wanted
and yet?
How very taken for granted! 

Nargis Natarajan.