The two ends of life

As the little baby is born
Ululations and tumults of gladness take to heights
Shower presents and smiles welcome the guest
Friends and relatives gather to witness the miracle
As if no one was ever born before

Just as an old man is laid to rest
Friends and relatives gather again
First with disbelieve and discomfort
To witness yet another miracle
As if no one ever died before

In a single file they stand, taking turns to see
Hesitantly peeping heads to give a flash look and turn away
Breaking into sorrowful tears
Yet signing and confirming, that the dead is worth the grave
With fear and caution, they cover with heavy soil,
Wishing they could live some little holes for breathing
As if no one has ever been buried before

These are the two ends of life
That we gather for with surprise
And meet with little familiarity
Yet they form part of our daily lives

By Dydimus Zengenene
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