We both left home at 18.
You cleared JEE,
I got recommended.
You got IIT, I got NDA.

You pursued your degree,
I had the toughest training.
Your day started at 7 and ended at 5,
Mine started at 4 till 9 and Some nights also included.
You had your convocation ceremony,
I had my POP.

You celebrated festivals with lights and music,
I celebrated with my comrade in bunkers.
We both married,
Your wife got to see you everyday,
My wife just wished I was alive.
You were sent to business trips,
I was sent on line of control.

We both returned,
Both wives couldn’t control their tears,
but You wiped her but,
I couldn’t.
You hugged her but,
I couldn’t.

Because I was lying in the coffin,
With medals on my chest and,
Coffin wrapped with tricolour.
My way of life ended, Your continued.
We both left home at 18.

Shared by Advit Verma,
Army Public School,
Ambala Cantonment