In the Convent, one more test, <br />As a novice, Bernadette, <br />Had to take, with pleasure, <br />Before the Mother Superior. <br /> <br />The rules and regulations, <br />The “Dos” and “Don’ts, ” <br />This was part of the sermon, <br />She heard as a first lesson. <br /> <br />What work she liked <br />And what she disliked, <br />This point came up thereafter, <br />To know her choice better. <br /> <br />The girl gave an answer, <br />Politely to the Mother, <br />To her every question, <br />Without any hesitation. <br /> <br />She was willing to take, <br />The maidservant’s work, <br />Such as cleaning vessels, <br />Washing the dining halls. <br /> <br />Her former class teacher, <br />At present her superior, <br />Gave her another lecture <br />Followed by a stricture. <br /> <br />“Never think of your home. <br />You should remain firm <br />In this spiritual path <br />Until your last breath.” <br /> <br />“You can leave any day, <br />If you don’t like to stay, <br />As long as you’re here, <br />Do work with a cheer.” <br /> <br />“It’s my duty, my girl, <br />To uplift your soul, <br />So, obedience is must <br />Coupled with interest.” <br /> <br />“Here, you’ve another name, <br />As yours, popular it became, <br />Because of this undue fame, <br />Behind your present name.” <br /> <br />So, she had to sacrifice <br />Even her name as a price. <br />In her Godmother’s name, <br />Marie Bernarde, she became. <br /> <br />In this second life chosen, <br />She started from the kitchen <br />As a menial servant first, <br />The job that suited her taste.<br /><br />Rajaram Ramachandran<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/first-day-as-a-novice/
