I can’t speak up for myself, will YOU

First wrote: January 7, 2016

Updated    :  Sept 22, 2020

Today is World Rhino Day. When I first wrote this poem nearly five years back, I had no idea such a day existed. I wrote this poem because rhinos are very dear to my heart, specially one horned rhinos. I grew up with their images etched in my heart. They are the symbol of my home state in India. Unfortunately, to satisfy the libido of certain Oriental people, these gentle giants are being poached mercilessly just for their horns. These misinformed people have a belief that rhino horns have aphrodisiac properties, as if the world need more of them. If possible, please visit Assam, India, the home of the one horned rhinos. With sanctuaries like Kaziranga National Park (first one to be established), Manas, Orang and Pabitora, one is assured a view of these magnificent animals from close quarters. Shoot them as you like, but please use your camera only. Your visits may help raise awareness for continued safety of these docile giants and stop the nefarious lust of the people who poach them to satisfy their urge.

I can’t speak up for myself, will YOU

In the dead of night

Came death

Came silently

But finished the work

With loud bangs

Took my mother

Away from me

She tried to save me

With all her might

She fought

But was no match

For their weapons

Her only weapon

Of defense

Mercilessly they cut

From her still warm body

What good it is for them

Mercy

They did not leave me alone

Before they left

The scene of

Their heinous crime

I was finished off

With a loud sound

We were peaceful

Docile

Just wanted to roam

In a little corner of the world

We called home

Their greed

Left us dead and mutilated

Now

I can’t speak up for myself

Will YOU?

Note:  All photos of dead rhinos from the

post http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2896446/Second-one-horned-rhino-space-month-butchered-poachers-Indian-national-park.html