Photo Courtesy: Image by Hello Cdd20 from Pixabay | For representational purpose only
Abalü Medeo
Grace Higher Secondary School
On my walk to school that rainy day,
I chanced upon a father in a loving way.
He held his son’s hand, a gentle guide,
A scene that stirred my heart, deep inside.
I thought of my own dad, often away,
Never felt his warmth, never had his say.
But in that moment, I felt a pang,
A longing for a love that wasn’t mine to cling
The father cautioned his son with care
“Avoid the mud, be careful there.”
I followed the lead, as if his words were mine
A stranger’s guidance, a moment so divine.
As we crossed the road, he held his son’s hand tight,
Stopped the traffic with a gentle might.
I followed his lead, a silent lone,
Feeling a sense of safety, a moment to rest.
When school arrived, and it was time to part,
The father bid his son a loving bye,
I whispered “bye dad” with a low sigh
A moment’s peace, a stranger’s guide.
That anonymous dad, a fleeting glance,
A memory etched, a moment’s dance,
I’ll never forget, though how short it was
A stranger’s kindness, a father’s love that Guidance that passed
‘The Stranger’s Guidance’ won 1st Prize at Grace Higher Secondary School’s Literary Fest 2024-25. It explores teenage loneliness, faith and kindness themes every Naga student feels.
