ONLY IN A world of freedom, <br />Can a child unfold and bloom. <br />Only with the sun piercing right through the dark hut, <br />Can a child see the wonderful sights of this world. <br />Only in an ocean of unprejudiced love, <br />Can a child speak to its heart's content. <br />Only through the eyes of soft empathy, <br />Can a child see its true reflection. <br />Only in surroundings of unadulterated society, <br />Can a child open its mind wholesomely and dream. <br />Only when applauded at its tiniest achievement, <br />Can a child come to know its hidden potential. <br />Only in lanes without propagation of caste, <br />Can a child recognize its own identity. <br />Only in the cradle of happiness, <br />Can a child fantasize and create. <br />Only in vicinity of the learned, <br />Can a child imbibe the essentials of life. <br />Only in the pages of medieval history, <br />Can a child understand its ancestors better. <br />Only in unpolluted waters of the Ganges, <br />Can a child splash its hands and wholeheartedly swim. <br />Only without discrimination of gender and status, <br />Can a child flourish to achieve its goal. Only in the gentle hands of its mother, Can a child shield its eyes and sob. <br />And Only in an atmosphere of complete equality, <br />Can a child stimulate his urge for learning, prosper and smile.<br /><br />Nikhil Parekh<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-child-smiles/
