Last the night seemed like a replica of many other nights
The pitch-black night just came and stayed, no light in sight
Why the pain crept seamlessly from my heart to my eyes
The pain I dismissed to own, knocking again on my premises
The moments when the bomb blasted, in my memory, sustained
The wound that took years to mend, oh! I scratched it again
My sunken heart brought up the pain and let out a cry
Bidding goodbye to the little hope I hoped to buy
On the streets of Sri Lanka, those faces were smiling at me
As I halted to shop from one vendor to another with a glee
The fresh produce, the aroma of spices they offered
I tucked in my bags all the things, along with their smiles, I desired
Having a last look at them as my car raced ahead
I sat comfortably, already planning my next visit here
Suddenly the earth shook, the sky glittered, and my head hammered
The market behind me was gone, and to rubble reduced
Years later, for saving my life, I still thank God
But the images of that lively market and people I can’t shake off
Since then, I have had many nights remembering their smiles
Last night was just one such night that I spent in turmoil