Growing up

Quietly I listen

sitting on the stairs 

crushed mulberry on the floor

painting the ground in purple shades

and I see my henna laden hands

with flowers and leaves

writing the dreams I latch

along with the unshed tears of my parents

the hidden worries on my brothers brows

On the temple grounds

the bells ring loud

the heart lands it self on a swing

riding yet sole

rhythms sweet have started to spread

this is where expectations and realities meet

and this is when I leave

a home

but a complete universe

this is the day

where I wear a red dress

look at my sisters and smile

sobbing within the heart

I go along with a horde of strangers 

never to return back 

never to call you mine

detaching and attaching 

several permanent bonds

I grow,

 to be a woman now.