Goan Reverie

 

Went to Goa for a Publishing conference,

Stayed on for a vacation and had a great time,

Midst the swaying palms, sandy beaches and rolling waves;

I can’t help but celebrate it in rhyme...

It was wonderful to wake up to birds calling,

And to drive through the green countryside,

And feel the sand slip away beneath my feet,

As the waves splash and recede with the tide...

It was a delight to walk through green vistas,

Tour ancient churches and a state-of-the-art library,

Hear lilting Goan folk music on a scenic river cruise,

And watch the sunset over the ochre-tinged Arabian Sea...

Midst the sand and the sea and a shower or two,

Ate bebinca, xacuti and delicious vindaloo...

Toured a spice plantation, went on an elephant ride,

Drank cashew feni – that burned its way inside!

It was a delightful and refreshing break,

In an idyllic holiday mood,

Enhanced by the green landscape,

Friendly people and delectable food!

As I look at the seashells I gathered from the shore,

I recall the verdant land and balmy clime,

And as I listen to the susurration of a seashell,

It sounds like: ‘Thank you Goa, for a wonderful time...’