Pravin’s Poems
1) Family Poems – 20 poems
2) Social Poems – 9 poems
3) Religious Poems – 7 poems
4) Office Poems – 6 poems
Total Poems in the folder – 42 poems
Pravin’s Poems
Family Poems
1) The Magic Line – So it Seems ( at Pravin’s 65th Birthday – 8 April 2005)
2) Our dear Aunt Ruth/ Grandma ( at her 91st Birthday – 18 August 2005)
3) Sunjay’s Birthday – 12 November 2006
4) Jashoda’s (Jackie’s) Birthday – 15 November 2006
5) Haiku for Nina’s Birthday – 14 December 2006
6) Lullaby in Kiswahilli – at Baby Shower Party for Nina/Sunjay – for their first born
7) Mother’s Day – 11 May 2008
8) Father’s Day – 15 June 2008
9) “Our Precious Little Angel” – Sitara’s 1st Birthday – 5 August 2008
10) Sunir’s 30th Birthday (1 June 2009)- poem by his wife, Shannon Knights
11) ” Your Valued Hug! “ – Sitara’s 2nd Birthday – 5 August 2009
12) Sunir/Shannon – 1st Wedding Anniversary -11 October 2009 -Celebratory Poem
12) A Tribute to Baa, my mother (Kasturben)
13) “Sachinman” – Sachin’s 1st Birthday – 20 July 2010
14) ” So Sitara ” – Sitara’s 3rd Birthday – 5 August 2010
15) Sunjay’s Birth Day – 2010
16) Sachin’s 2nd Birthday -20 July 2011
17) Hi Sachin , Happy 3rd Birthday – 20 July 2012
18) Happy 5th Birthday for Sitara Mistry – 5 August 2012
19) Happy 1st Birthday for our angel, Maya Jashoda Knights Shah – 7 August 2012
20 ) Combined Birthday song- for Sitara (6 years) , Sachin (4 years) and Maya (2 years)
21) Happy 5th Birthday for Sachin Mistry -20 July 2014
22) Happy 7th Birthday for Sitara Mistry – 5 August 2014
23) Happy Birthday for Maya Shah – 7 August 2014
Family Poem – for my birthday when reached 65 years of age
April 8, 2005 —- Pravin Shah born on 8 April 1940
The Magic Line ”“ So it Seems!
The 65 years of life age is the magic imaginary line
Navigated the 65 years in life and survived intact
What a fulfillment! So it seems!
Oh! That imaginary line of dependence to independence
65 years of life rushed by with some ups and some downs
What a relief! So it seems!
This is the license to be grumpy, grouchy and irritable
An air of conquer and “I don”™t care” attitude
What a triumph! So it seems!
Sit at home and collect my CPP, OAS & free medicines?
Fewer taxes to governments for this and for that
What a freedom! So it seems!
The hidden traps unseen when crossing over the magic line
Retirement takes you away from colleagues and friends
What a radical change! So it seems!
The old abode suddenly becomes too large to manage
Your kid”™s memory is still intact though they left the coop
What, sell & move? So it seems!
The struggle to decide where to move drives you mad
Downsize, remove clutter, have a hobby goes the refrain!
What confusion! So it seems !
Organize family records, photos and memories for simplicity
Be smart and have financial plans to spend pension money
What preparedness! So it seems!
Go travel, go to Mexico, go to sun, run from the snow and cold
A constant clamor to go for vacation from friends and neighbors
What a ruckus! So it seems!
Loneliness of retirement and senior years loom large
Mental and physical ailments become the daily grind
What an existence? So it seems!
Well, going over 65 years is not that magic line or is it?
To establish priorities and clarity of purpose is the panacea
What an option! So it seems!
Remove past grudges and accept the world as it is
Keep your humour and daily exercise
What a tall order! So it seems!
Establish a spiritual bondage with the world and the Creator
Let go peacefully with satisfaction and achievement in your heart
What transformation! So it seems!
Poem by Pravin Shah, Deep River, Ontario
(approached 65 years of age on 8th April, 2005)
Family Poem – Our Dear Aunt Ruth/Grandma – 18 August 2005
This is a poem written for our Grandma/Aunt Ruth to celebrate her 91st birthday in 2005. She is Ruth M. ; who came into our lives during 1974 when we migrated to Canada and made residence in Niagara Falls, Ontario. She became a family member and took upon herself to fill the loving Grandma position when Nina was born in 1974 and when Sunir arrived in 1979.
Our dear Aunt Ruth Our Grandma
Yonder and over, way back in 1974
Your love and charm won us over
The sound & fury of Niagara Falls
Bubbled over into frequent calls
Like fish taken to water
You took us into your bosom
Enchanted were Nina & Sunir
What hugs, kisses and care!
You are in our hearts and thoughts
The spirit emboldened and sparkled
Our hunger for family fulfilled
Our Grandma in Kenya well comforted
We wish you the best
for the years to come Looking forward to your
wisdom and warmth
Happy Birthday this August 2005
Many more to come to celebrate a century
Nina, Sunjay, Sunir,
Jackie & Pravin Shah
Forever enchanted & emboldened by love
Jackie Shah
Family Poem – Sunjay”™s Birthday (12 November 2006)
Note: Sunjay is our son-in-law , married to our daughter, Nina
Sunjay
It”™s the time for celebration
Another year on the march
Step one Step two, life goes on
Yesterday you were in Toronto
Full of rush and dash in a bustling city
No time to savour the flowers and nature
Today you are here in a rural stretch
All quiet and twinkling stars in the sky
All the time to enjoy the birds and bees
Dear Sunjay, it”™s the time for celebration
With Nina at your side, music in your ear
Let us all sing a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Many more to come!
Family Poem- Jashoda”™s (Jackie”™s) birthday – 15 November 2006
Poem for my wife”™s (Jashoda a.k.a Jackie) birthday on
Dear J.
A smile is reflected on your face
You survived the march of time
All the ups and downs washed away
Been there, done that, all to memory
Most demons slayed, life is maintained
Cobwebs of mind cleared, sunshine found
Troubles and travails of life digested
At this time in life, perched for tranquility
Kids provide music and warmth to life
Dear J, its time for celebrations
All hurdles are past with clear path ahead
Hubby around ready for retirement and tango
Put the feet up and relax
Lets us all sing a HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Many more to come!
Pravin
Family Poem – Poem (Haiku) for our daughter”™s (Nina’s) birthday on 14 December 2006
The Daughter
Nina magnificently smiles
And drips her warmth all around
Like laughter it resonates.
Standing firm, then moves
Meeting Sunjay and Sunir
Melding husband and sibling
March of Time leaves footprints
Banks of Memories abound
Happy Birthday, 2006 December 14
Haiku(s) by Dad (Pravin )
Family Poem – Baby Shower – Nina & Sunjay – for their first born ( Sitara )
A baby shower party was held on Thursday 31 May 2007 for Nina and Sunjay. The party was organized by parents and thus held at our residence. There were her friends, colleagues , and family friends of different cultural backgrounds. It was a real Canadian event.
There were baby shower games played by all. There were generous gifts for the winners. In the game for singing lullabys , many provided a good sample of their childhood lullabys. Laxmi sang a stirring lullaby right to the baby (close to Nina”™s tummy).
I as prospective Grandpa (maternal) took this opportunity to create my own lullaby in Kiswahili (a Kenyan language).
The words go as below:
jambo Jambo Habari gana
Hakuna Matata totto ndogo
Maze hapa na lala
Maze hapa na lala
Pravin Shah
Family Poem – Mother”™s day ( 11 May 2008 )
This year”™s mother”™s day is a special for our family. Nina (our daughter) will be with her new born baby daughter (Sitara) – and our first grandchild and celebrate her first mother”™s day with a party for her and Sunjay”™s friends at their residence in Mackay.
We , the grandparents, were away to Windsor for attending an Engineering event.
We were not quite removed from the Mother”™s Day celebration. When we travelled to Windsor on Wednesday 07 May, we stopped at Mackay to play with Sitara. Oh! she was wonderful – crawling on her fours and occasionally sitting on her feet (hunched like a “rabbit) and like in a prayer mode. She would give the most broadest of smiles and clap her tender hands in joyous burst.
Well, the Mother”™s Day was coming and what must be going in her mind. She is already a good 9 months old and recognising her mom & dad but also her grandparents well.
Here is our observation and sentiments – all crafted in the our Neon car while driving to Windsor.
Nina,
Bless your beloved heart forever Sitara
Sitara is a gift to cherish forever
A HAPPY 1st Mother”™s Day to you
dad & mom
The following is Sitara”™s sentiments as observed in my mind.
A thankful infant – an imagery !
On that Special Day
Sitara sat in her “rabbit” pose
Hunched on her feet, in a prayer mode
the heart oozing
“HAPPY MOTHER”™S DAY”
Clapping lovingly with her soft hands
With her warmest and joyous smile.
An Observant (her granddad)
Family Poem – Father”™s Day- 15 June 2008
This year”™s Father”™s Day is a special for our family (similar to the mother”™s day. Sunjay (our son-in-law) will be with his new born baby daughter (Sitara) – and our first grandchild and celebrate his first father”™s day. This is a unique father”™s day as Sitara & her mom have gone to England last week and Sunjay is joining them – arriving in England a day before the Father”™s Day and celebrating the day there amongst his family. We, Sitara’s maternal grandparents, were away to Orillia to attend a wedding and then to Toronto.
We were quite removed from the Father”™s Day celebration this year as Sunir/Shannon were in B.C while Nina, Sitara & Sunjay in U.K. Well, the Father”™s Day was coming and what must be going in Sitara”™s mind? Similar to what possibly went thru her mind when Mother”™s Day came by only a few weeks ago. She is already a good 10 months old and recognising her mom & dad but also her grandparents well. Here is our observation and sentiments (an imagery)- all crafted on Monday 9 June 2008 in Deep River by her granddad (& presented to Sunjay when he came for dinner on that Monday evening).
Sunjay,
A proud father to a charming girl
Sitara is a gift of the Gods
To be coddled for eternity
A HAPPY 1st Father”™s Day to you.
Mom & dad – this side of the pond
A thankful infant – an imagery !
On that Special Day
Sitara waits longingly
Her visit to England with her mom
Looking out of the English window
Standing straight on her tiny legs
She croons her neck
Searching for her dad to appear
She smiles at the thought of her dad
She longs to smother dad with kisses
With her joyous smiles and sounds
She articulates in her own way
“HAPPY FATHER”™S DAY”
Clapping lovingly with her soft hands
Postscript:
Sitara celebrated her 1st Father”™s Day with her dad in Rugby, England. The place where her dad grew up. This was very fitting.
Family Poem – 1st Birthday – our little precious angel , Sitara (born on 5th August 2007) – our Granddaughter.
Yes, she (that is our precious angel – Sitara) has arrived fully to the family – a one year lifespan. She can toddle and walk around. She knows her grandma & grandpa – of course she is completely attached to her parents . She knows all her toys – and she smilingly shares these with other kids who do come to visit.
“ Our Precious Little Angel ”
Your wonderful smile and sweet cooing
Always charming and constant wooing
Sitara, you are a precious bundle of joy
The heart ruptures with a delightful ahoy!
One year to you is a long time to mature
For us it is the best of time in nature
Crawling all around exploring intensely
The world opens up to you so profusely
A baby born to explore has started walking
The granny goes stalking her all around
Your toys scattered on the floor for play
Tiny books and bells sing hooray
A charming granddaughter whose claim
An excellent link in the family chain
Sunir and Shannon go ga ga over you
The whole world goes ra ra around you
You are the “love of our hearts”
Enchanting “notes of music”™ so smart
Sitara, we wish you a very Happy 1st Birthday
“Our precious little angel” to cherish for a lifetime
Love
your nana & nani
Note: Her parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry
Family Poem – Poem by his wife Shannon on Sunir”™s 30th Birthday
I recently came upon an e-mail from Shannon dated June 02, 2009 which says:
” Hi everyone,
I thought I would pass along the poem I wrote for Sunir”™s 30th birthday, which I recited at our BBQ party last weekend.”
Shannon
__________________________________
Speaking to you as a loving wife,
I”™d like to tell you about the man in my life.
In Niagara Falls in 1979,
Sunir Shah entered the family line.
In Hamilton he spent his early days,
Before moving to Deep River for life”™s next phase.
He learned computer programming at age four,
He”™s a smart guy; who could ask for more?
He went to Carleton for his first degree,
In math and computer science, we”™d all agree.
After university, he headed to Europe,
Far from the land of maple syrup.
Fortunately for me, he then decided to go,
To do his Master”™s in Toronto.
Introduced at the Madison by Sunjay Mistry,
We hit it off and the rest is history.
A wedding in the fall, sealed with a kiss,
Has been the start of marital bliss.
He”™s like pecan pie, my favourite treat:
He”™s warm and brown, nutty and sweet.
So join me in celebrating Sunir”™s first thirty years,
Please raise your glass and all say Cheers!
Shannon Knights
Family Poem – 2nd Birthday – our precious little angel, Sitara (born on 5th August 2007) – our Granddaughter.
Our Sitara became 2 year old on Wednesday 5th August 2009 . Her nana (maternal Grandfather) has written a small poem for her to celebrate her 2nd birthday.
Your valued hug!
Twinkle Twinkle little Sitara
Our precious twinkling Star
Mummy”™s Teapot, daddy”™s Bhajiuu
Nana”™s Thapli and angel to nani
Sweet, Sweet Sitara, our Miss Muffet
quietly sat on her tuffett with a smile
A joy to your baby brother Sachin
His sister planting Hugs and kisses
Our girl is now grown to two year old
We all enjoy her boldness all around
Your dancing feet with laughter
a fable already afoot for fun
So Happy Birthday our two-year-old lovable
your hugs and kisses valued highly by us all.
We love you!
Note: 1) Her baby brother, Sachin was born on 20 July 2009
2) Their parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry
Family Poem – Sunir/Shannon – 1st Wedding Anniversary
Today, 11 October 2009 is the first (1st) Wedding Anniversary of our son – Sunir”™s wedding to Shannon.
They are in Europe at this time as they went there to celebrate the occasion with Shannon”™s sister Erica .
””””””””””””””””””””””
I wrote a poem for this occasion which I sent them by electronic mail to them to-day.
Celebrating our son Sunir”™s 1st Wedding Anniversary
Our happiness multiplied many-folds when you were born
Anxiety evaporated when your sister Nina welcomed you with a smile
The joy effervesced when you took to robots and computers
We jumped with ecstasy at your first job at 16 and gone to the university
This combo remained steady all thru your university life which mesmerised us all
You are the twin twinkling star with your sister, both illuminating the family
The “empty nest” syndrome hit us the most when you were gone from home
You were our focus and delight for many years when your sister was away
Those days are now gone to our memory lane and forever reminisced with glee
Then we heard the thunder of a young man”™s love – going from Toronto to Kingston
A four-year rumble ended with a bang and Shannon brought a rainbow display
Your wedding day October 11 ,2008 is etched in our heart bringing ecstasy par excellent
The young son transformed to a young man all ready to take on the world
A supporting charming and graceful wife at your side, what a pair
We can weave many dreams and savour all the possibilities for future to unfold.
Both of you along with Nina, Sunjay, Sitara and Sachin are a constellation in our life
This is all we want in our life whatever years we have to enjoy the sparkle
We pray your and Shannon”™s happiness forever and ever.
dad
Family Poem – A tribute to Baa , my mother (Kasturben)
A memorial Prayer (Puja) for our mother (Kasturben)
– passed away in Nairobi, Kenya on Saturday 24 April 2010
Prayer Location: our home in Deep River, Ontario, Canada
When: Friday 14 May 2010 at 8.00 p.m
””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””
A tribute to Baa , my mother
Namaste Pranam Baa – I bow to your graciousness
Your sacrifice and forever a smile on your face
””””-
We respect your spirit of service
also the spirit of responsibility that goes with it
””””-
We understand your circumstances and extended family bond
but never felt left out when growing up in your bosom
””””-
We soaked up your love and care all these years
Your magnanimity and self-control are etched in our hearts
””””””
We had a shelter to come to whenever we hit a storm
Your words of wisdom always carried us through difficult times.
”””””””“
We have you in our collective memory which is deep
May you rest in peace – Namaste Pranam Baa
””””””-
Further notes:
This Mother”™s Day (11 May 2012) was a special day – as it came just a few days after my mother (Kasturben) passed away in Kenya (on Saturday morning – 6.10 am Nairobi time – 24th April 2010) .
The kids – Sitara and Sachin along with their parents Nina/Sunjay as well as Sunir/Shannon had gathered in Toronto when we were there – so we all can have a Memorial Service (Puja) for her at the Hindu Temple in Toronto.
Family Poem – 1st Birthday – our precious little grandson, Sachin (born on 20 July 2009)
Our SachinMan – poem written for celebrating Sachin’s birthday on 20 July 2010
Our grandson, Sachin, became 1year old today He along with his sister , Sitara, and his parents are presently on a visit to England. He & Sitara are enjoying the company of their grandma (paternal) and their dad”™s sister , brother-in- law and Yashmin (their cousin sister).
I have written a small poem to celebrate his birthday . Here it is:
SachinMan
Your mischievous smile and twinkle in the eyes
Do win hearts every moment
Your satiated demeanour and contented yawn
Brings joy and happiness to our hearts
Your crawling and standing up to “cruise” along a sofa
Bring delight to our hearts
Every week of your growth in mental and motor skills
Fills our hearts with delight
You do recognise and play with your own toys
This cheers your sister Sitara to no end
Now that you are 1 yr old , a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY
From the bottom of our collective hearts
Our SachinMan our linkage to future along with Sitara
We wish you many years of joy and success.
nana , nani and the whole family
Note: 1) His parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry
2) His sister, Sitara
Poem for our 2 year old grandson, Sachin (20 July 2011)
Hey Sachin,
your mischievous smile always
your innocent twinkle in the eyes
your permeating sweetness so soft
all above soar forever in our hearts
Hey Sachin
your spoken words so meaningful
your shape sorter activities so focussed
your musical burst here and there
all above forever titillate our hearts
Hey Sachin
your entertaining interplay with Sitara
your display of love for “nana” and “nani”
your natural embrace of ‘mama” and “mami”
all above forever flutter in our hearts
Hey Sachin
your being 2 years all confident and sure
your mom and dad so proud always
your sister, Sitara, adores you endless
all above forever is a plus for you
Hey Sachin
you be assured of our love for you
you be assured of our support always
you be assured of our delight for you ever
Happy Birthday ! Many more to come !
nana, nani and the whole family
Family Poem – 3rd Birthday – our precious little angel, Sitara (born on 5th August 2007) – our Granddaughter.
Sitara turned 3 (years old) on 5th August 2010. Here is the poem to celebrate the occasion.
So Sitara !
So Sitara, you are now 3 years old
all perky and being bold
So your charm has blossomed
which has floated us to heaven
So your chatter has bloomed
which brings us jollies and prattle
So you now share the dinner table
which bring smiles all around
So Sitara, you are now a big sister
which makes Sachin a baby mister
So you are like a fresh flower
which spreads scent of affection
So you are petite and beautiful
which is joyful to our eyes
So Sitara, you are now 3 year old
all confident and our precious
So, a happy birthday to our love
We wish you the best, our love
nana, nani & the whole family
Note: 1) Her parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry
2) Her little brother, Sachin
Family Poem – Sunjay’s 2010 Birthday (12 November 2010)
The world spins
and makes us go around
with arms around the family
the joy spurts forth
Happy Birthday
Family Poem – 3rd Birthday – our precious little grandson, Sachin (born on 20 July 2009)
Our 3 year old Grandson (20 July 2012) – Sachin Mistry
Hi Sachin, Happy 3rd Birthday!
This year brings you to a full 3 year old
All playful and vibrant your normal cheerful self
That keeps your grandpa in spirit all time
How thankful we “nana-nani” are
That you were born to be in our lives
Everyday becomes a joyful day for us
When we see you and Sitara visiting us.
When you open your birthday gifts
We know what a gift you are.
Happy Birthday!
nana and nani and the whole family
Note: 1) His parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry
2) His sister, Sitara
Family Poem – 5th Birthday – our precious little angel, Sitara (born on 5th August 2007) – our Granddaughter
Our Granddaughter Sitara Mistry”™s 5th Birthday ( 5 August 2012 )
A charming girl all 5 years old
Love oozes out of your every move
Your touch is healing and soothing
Your smile washes out all our trepidations
You are an angel with sweet demeanour
You captivate all with your playful activities
Your hugs and kisses are all we want
Your smooth elegant moves touch our souls
You lift our spirits when we see you
You give solace to our aging hearts
Your nana/nani are blessed to have you
Our lives are fulfilled to know you
A Very Special Happy Birthday to you
Dear Sitara we all love you so much.
nana/nani ( maternal grandparents)
Note: 1) Her parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry
2) Her little brother, Sachin
Family Poem – 1st Birthday – our newest precious little angel, Maya Jashoda Knights Shah – born on 7 August 2011 – our Granddaughter.
Maya Jashoda Knights Shah – her 1st Birthday ( 7 August 2012 )
Our dear Maya much playful
Always able to go places civilly
A ready traveller with aplomb
Calm but witty with sparkles of teeth
One year on this earth all playful
Inquisitive enquiring mind with pizzazz
Plundering pantry and cupboards
Crawling cuddling sweet baby
Maya , this is your first birthday
Your toddler days are very near
Pretty soon running all over the house
Our detective on the prowl
Your first birthday is special delight
Your Ba and Bapuji are full of pride
Our adorable Baby, cute from head to toe
We wish you an incredible birthday !
Ba /Bapuji – paternal grandparents
Note: 1) Her parents – Shannon Knights & Sunir Shah
Family Poem – Combined Birthday Song for All Three Grandchildren – 2013
Here is a combined birthday poem written to celebrate all three (3) grandchildren”™s birthday in 2013. This was recited by all those present at a combined Birth Day party on Thursday ( 2013 July 25) at grandparents home in Deep River.
1) Sitara – 5 August – 6 years old
2) Sachin – 20 July – 4 years old
3) Maya – 7 August – 2 years old
One , two, Tickle my Heart
One , two, Tickle my Heart
Three , Four, knock at the door
Five, Six , hug Sitara, Sachin, Maya
Seven, Eight, Sitara skiing
Nine. Ten , Sachin Swimming
Eleven, Twelve , Maya playing hide & seek
Thirteen, Fourteen, all three a-bonding
Fifteen, Sitara 6 years August 5th
Sixteen , Sachin 4 years July 20th
Seventeen , dear Maya 2 years August 7th
Eighteen, love them the most
Nineteen, Twenty, my plate”™s brimming with joy & pride
One, two, Tickle my Heart
One, two, Tickle my Heart
Its 2013, Happy Birthday to all my dear grandchildren
Grandpa in Deep River, ON
Sitara”™s nana
Sachin”™s nana
Maya”™s Bapuji
Family Poem – Happy 5th Birthday for Sachin Mistry -20 July 2014
Our smiling and playful boy
Our smiling and playful boy
turning to be 5 years old
taking all in his fold
Our smiling and playful boy
scoring a soccer goal
a role bestowed by destiny
Our smiling and playful boy
building his toys from Lego pieces
hiding in a fort built from quilts
Our smiling and playful boy
rushing to hug his nana
blushing with love from his nani
Our smiling and playful boy
Year 2014 makes you adventurous
Exploring and inventing games
Our smiling and playful boy
Oh! The loving brother Sachin
Sitara takes you further
Sachin , Happy Birthday to you.
by nana
Family Poem – Happy 7th Birthday for Sitara Mistry – 5 August 2014
Our Sitara is 7 year old
She is growing
So bubbly and Cheerful
Always gracious and caring
Her helpful nature
Just wins hearts
A mind so scientific
Grasping details easily
An eye for painting
Draws figures so telling
Sitara has to be around
Our hearts beep joy
Wants books read to her
She makes nana thrilled
Her smiles so captivating
Silent love enthuse all
Sachin so feels loved by her
We are very proud Sitara
A very Happy Birthday to you
We rejoice immensely.
nana
Family Poem – Happy Birthday for Maya Shah – 7 August 2014
A sprite in her feet
Such a bright smile
Maya makes a splash
Our cottage going girl
She skips and jumps
Kieran on a swing
Brother feels the touch
Maya is in heaven
Three year old Maya
Our sunshine ! Ever
She joins Grandma fishing
Kieran roots for best wishes
Our hearts flutter in joy
A song vibrates in the sky
Happy Birthday Maya
Many more to come
Bapuji
Pravin’s Poems
Social Poems
1) New Year Party Song ( 1987 ) – At Dr. Chatterjee’s house in Pembroke
2) Spring ( 30 March 1987 ) – Toast to Spring at a Toastmasters Meeting
3) War in Iraq – 2003
4) Christmas 2003 – Toast offered at Philipose Residence in Deep River
5) Ode To Chatterjees on their move to Toronto – party at Knights Columbus Hall,
Pembroke 21 March 2004
6) Memorial To Mrs. Ulka Sutradar – 5 November 2005 – by Jackie Shah
7) Destiny – 7 January 2007 ( when getting ready for retirement)
8) Retirement – 10 April 2007 ( just after retirement)
9) Celebrating a baby’s birth – 15 April 2007 at Mehta Residence in Pembroke.
Social Poem – New Year Party Song – (1987) – at Dr. Chatterjee”™s House in Pembroke, Ontario sang on 1st January 1987 party.
A Fun Song – composed By Pravin/Jashoda Shah – newly arrived in the area at the time.
Song Chorused by Jashoda (Jackie) Shah
””””””””””
New Life New Friends
Deep River Trails and Forests
Rama and Mahavir”™s Forests
Bring Joy and Happiness
Chorus
Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Veda New Puja
Deep River Nuclear Families
Vinay”™s Tea Brew Radioactive
Bring Joy and Happiness
Chorus
Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Ramnik New Champa
Deep River Welcome Wagon
Shah Tradition We Welcome
Bring Joy And Happiness
Chorus
Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
P.T.O
New Sports New School
Deep River New Children
Nina and Sunir”™s Amalgam
Bring Joy and Happiness
Chorus
Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Life New Friends
Deep River and Pembroke
Fancy Parties at Chatterjees
Bring Joy and Happiness
Chorus
Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Pravin New Jashoda
Deep River in Winter Grip
Paddle Boats With Friends and All
Bring Joy and Happiness
Chorus
Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
Social Poem – Spring
( written 30 March 1987 – for offering a Toast at a Toastmasters meeting )
Spring has arrived and with that
We hear birds chipping,
Snow melting and sound of
Children in the streets.
What an exhilarating sight!
Spring resurrects hope and
Restores humanity in our hearts
It”™s a time for renewal and a
Time to come out of winter hibernation
What an exhilarating feeling!
“So today my toast to SPRING”
To SPRING!
Social Poem – War in Iraq – 2003
What a spin?
Tick Tock! Tick Tock! The clock is ticking.
The war drums are drumming and Apaches in the air.
All the battleships are lined up. Army is on the move all
around the enemy country. But then the “Coalition of the Willing”
is spinning the wheels. The newly minted Super Power is huffing
and puffing but alas! Cannot make up its mind as looking for
some other ragtag army (like in Afghanistan) to carry the burden.
The United Nations, NATO and EU are the first victims while the dictator is having a chuckle!
What a predicament!
The terrorists are gathering all over or that”™s how it seems!
The borders around the Super Power are controlled like never before
and duct tapes and plastic sheeting are coming to the rescue.
Are Americans ready to carry the burden single-handedly to remove this maniacal dictator?
France, Germany and Belgium joined by likes of Russia and China are spinning for peace.
This is all and good but who is hearing the anguish and cry of Shias & Kurds
and other Iraqis who have seen no peace but torture and pain from this dictator.
Tick Tock! Tick Tock! The clock is ticking.
The war drums are drumming and Apaches in the air.
The world seems in derision and a torturous spin!
Social Poem – Toast (Poem) for Christmas 2003
The following toast was offered at Ken’s residence (Deep River, Ontario, Canada) when celebrating Christmas.
Toast for Christmas Day Thursday December 25, 2003
Its that time again when we meet at Philipose”™s house
There are no trumpets & bugles but rousing welcome
Christmas Day in Deep River with snow around
Tinsel and ornaments on Christmas Tree bright!
Jingle Bells! Jingle Bells! Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer!
Silent Night and all Christmas corals Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
It”™s the season to be jolly and cheerful all smiles around
Caring and sharing we rejoice the birth of Christ in a manger
Gifts and hugs laughter all jostling about with each other
With twinkle in the eyes warmth in spirit we sing praise
Jesus brought a paradigm shift in the way man relates to others
The call of “eye for an eye” is replaced by “Love thy Neighbors”
Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Mandela, Mother Teresa
All Understood great message of love, sacrifice and forgiveness
Let us raise a toast to this Christmas Day and seek forgiveness
We offer hand of friendship to each other for governess
Ken and their offspring Ray and Leena celebrate tonight
We raise a Toast to this family for sharing their joy with us
Social Poem – Ode To Chatterjees on their move to Toronto
Dr. Sadhan Chatterjee and Leena Chatterjee and their son Sudeep and daughter Sumita
The Ode delivered at the farewell party held on Sunday, March 21, 2004 for Chatterjee”™s at Knights of Columbus Hall in Pembroke by Deep River/Pembroke East Indian Community.
Chatterjees, known for their smiles
Smiles:
Smile for a while
As if it”™s in Chatterjees style
Spreading many a mile
And lasting a while
Will gather in style
All through one smile
Chatterjees, who exude warmth
A Friend:
It takes more than caring
To be a real friend;
The nature of friendship;
Requires a blend of warmest compassion
To reach and to comfort
The way that Chatterjees do
That”™s their kind of friendship
Is priceless to all
Chatterjees, one kind of a people
Special Family:
Writing about life
Friends helping thru strife
Dependable when needed
Chatterjees are one of a kind
Chatterjees, who are huggable
Inspired Hug:
Have you ever
Watched Chatterjees,
Eyeing each other as “Dost”
Indian hearts sharing hugs
They help inspire
Such a simple verse P.T.O
Chatterjees, our great support
Miss You:
Those of us who moved to
Deep River/Pembroke corridor
Over the years one by one
In a trickle from Toronto
Or a bunch from Whiteshell
Chatterjees, a “Welcome Wagon”
All music, parties and sunshine
A warm laughter and support
Smile and welcome, we will miss
Departure to Toronto leaves a void
AH! That”™s what life is about
Leena, Sadhan, Sudeep and Sumita
Jackie & Pravin wish you the best
Keep your smiles and warmth
Toronto will be yours in no time.
Social Poem – Memorial to Mrs. Ulka Sutradar – Sunday 05 November 2005
Memorial words by Jackie Shah on the anniversary of passing away of Mrs. Ulka Sutradar
Our lives go on without you!
Our Lives go on without you
But nothing is the same
When someone speaks your name
Sad are the hearts
as we love and miss you
Your heart was kind and true
The special years will not return
Our memories are forever
When we were all together
We had laughter and fun together
Today we, but weep alone
Ulka, caring, loving and joyful
One who lived for happiness
One who shared happiness
You spread your happiness to us
We send our happy sentiments
of fond memories to your departed soul
Ulka, We care, we weep and we remember
Jackie Shah
Social Poem – Destiny – ( written on 07 January 2007 )
Destiny
Meandering thru life
Picking up this and that
Bobbing high and low
Going sideways
Here I am wondering where I am
What for and why?
Kids have flown the coop
Empty quiet living room
Internet contact to the world
Just meandering thru life
Someday my ship will arrive
That I guess is the destiny.
Social Poem – Retirement
( written on 10 April 2007 – just after my – Pravin’s – retirement )
Retirement
”™Tis a moment to savour
Day of retirement is cheerful
The colleagues hissed yonder
You will be missed, what a yodel!
My heart shudders to let go
There is wobble in the legs
Transition with mist all around
“To do list” navigates the journey
Retirement is fun & frolic
If you know what I mean
Nature abound with bees and flowers
The pitter-patter of young ones
The meandering on life”™s highway
Travel my friend with your loved ones
The end journey needs to be clear
Retirement days will be chaotic
Keep your cool
Retirement”™s a drool
”˜Tis an idea which is an illusion
“Belief in you” brings the salvation
Social Poem – Celebrating a baby’s birth – Diya Jyoti (Avanish – dad & Nisha – mom)
We were invited to participate in a Puja (prayer) gathering at Subhash M. residence in Pembroke on Sunday 2007 April 15. Subhash and his charming wife Prabhaji were celebrating the arrival of their first grandchild (Diya Jyoti). Diya Jyoti was born one month ago to Avanish & Nisha (proud parents) . Avanish is the eldest son of Subhash/Prabhaji. Many Congratulations to the new parents.
I was asked to prepare something for the Puja (blessings for the young one and also some words for the Senior).
Well it so happened that Subhash/Prabhji”™s newly wedded younger son (Rahul) and his wife (Sangita) had also come from Boston for the occasion. Many Congratulations to the newly wed.
My conversion to Pujari status came inadvertently as I perfomed blessings Sutras (Hindu prayers to Gods) – all in English. The appropriate Sutras fell in my domain from search in the Internet to various Hindu websites and accidently picking up right Sutras for the occasion.
I also developed a Couplet/Poem for the baby. This is embedded in the text below which I delivered at the Puja.
A Couplet/Poem (by Pravin Shah)
A baby”™s love is freely given.
Diya Jyoti”™s heart bears no preconceived prejudices
She is pure and innocent in her chuckles and smiles.
A baby”™s love is freely given.
Diya Jyoti brings hope, love and joy to all
She is an epitome of calm and cheer in our lives
A baby”™s love is freely given.
Thank you Lord for our precious little one
Help us to relish the blessings you have given us
A baby”™s love is freely given.
Amen
Pravin’s Poems
Religious Poems
1) Search Search Little Person ( Tune: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star )
2) Violence Violence Go Away ( Tune: Rain Rain Go Away )
3) With Respect and Love for All life ( Tune: Happy Wanderer )
4) Arhat Oh Arhat ( Tune: Merrily We Roll Along )
5) Raa, Raa, ParsvaNath ( Tune: Baa Baa Black Sheep)
6) Simple Man Met Mahavir ( Tune: Simple Simon Met a Pieman )
7) Chandan Bala Holding Tears Down ( Tune: London Bridge is Falling Down)
Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85
( Tune: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star )
Search Search Little Person
Search Search Little Person
How I wonder What You are
Over Jainism All Life is Sacred
Like a Glory All again
How I wonder What You are.
Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85
( Tune: Rain Rain Go Away )
Violence Violence Go Away
Violence Violence Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want to Live
Jealousy Jealousy Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want to be Free
Greed Greed Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want to Share
Anger Anger Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want Total Peace
Karma Karma Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want Salvation
Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85
( Tune : Happy Wanderer )
With Respect And Love For All Life
With Respect and Love For all Life
My tranquil and Happy Friend
Forgive and Forget ( Repeat)
That”™s What Jainism Is All About
For Peace and Bliss To all Life
My Friend Walk an Extra Mile
Forgive and Forget ( Repeat)
That”™s What Jainism Is All About
To Care For all Creatures Alike
My Sharing and Tender Friend
Forgive and Forget ( Repeat)
That”™s What Jainism Is All About
With Respect and Love For all Life
My Tranquil and Happy Friend
Forgive and Forget ( Repeat)
That”™s What Jainism Is All About
CHORAS
Forgive and Forget
Forgive and Forget
My Friend, Forgive and Forget
Forgive and Forget
Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85
( Tune : Merrily We Roll Along )
Arhat Oh Arhat
ARHAT Oh ARHAT
Absolute Liberation
What a Beacon!
What a Beacon!
Oh ARHAT
This Greed This Jealousy
Freedom Is the Choice
What a Beacon!
What a Beacon!
Oh ARHAT
This Want This Mirage
Liberty Is the Choice
What a Beacon!
What a Beacon!
Oh ARHAT
ARHAT Oh ARHAT
Absolute Liberation
What a Beacon!
What a Beacon!
Oh ARHAT
Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85
( Tune – Baa Baa Black Sheep )
Raa , Raa , ParsvaNath
Raa , Raa , ParsvaNath ,
Twenty Third Tirthankar
Teacher , Teacher , There are
Four Jain Vows
One for Non-violence
One for the Truth
One for Non-possession
and One for Honesty
These are vows that
bring great salvation.
Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85
( Tune: Simple Simon Met a Pieman )
Simple Man Met Mahavir
Simple Man Met Mahavir
Going to The Forest
Says Simple Man to Mahavir
Let Me Test You Are Resolute
Says Mahavir to Simple Man
Show Me First Your Follies
Says Simple Man to Mahavir
Indeed I Have many Jollies
Simple Man Went A-bashing
For Mahavir to Whine
But All the Effort He Had Put
Brought in From Mahavir Shine
Simple Man Went To Look
If Mahavir had any Passion
He Hammered Nails In His Ears
Which Made Poor Man See Compassion.
Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85
( Tune – London Bridge is Falling Down )
Chandan Bala Holding Tears Down
Chandan Bala Holding Tears Down
Tears Down, Tears Down
Chandan Bala Holding Tears Down
My Dear Lord – o –
Shaven Head and Tied in Chains
Tied in Chains , Tied in Chains
Shaven Head and Tied in Chains
My Dear Lord – o –
Holding Bland Food in Her Hands
In Her Hands , In Her Hands
Holding Bland Food in Her Hands
My Dear Lord – o –
Praying Mahavir Will Come Around
Come Around , Come Around
Praying Mahavir Will Come Around
My Dear Lord – o –
Compassion Flows From Mahavir”™s Eyes
Mahavir”™s Eyes , Mahavir”™s Eyes
Compassion Flows From Mahavir”™s Eyes
My Dear Lord – o –
Food Eaten Mahavir Says Soothing Words
Soothing Words , Soothing Words
Food Eaten Mahavir Says Soothing Words
My Dear Lord – o –
Chandan Bala is Liberated
Liberated , Liberated
Chandan Bala is Liberated
My Dear Lord – o –
Pravin’s Poems
Office Poems
1) Ode to a wonderful team of Site Operations – Friday 13 December, 2002
2) Christmas 2002 – Tribute to Facility Space Techies
3) Office Christmas Party – 2003 – It’s that time again! Challenges galore!
4) Christmas Time in 2004
5) CRL Infrastructure Blues – Haiku written on 20 January 2005
6) Change is Constant – AECL Mantra – December 2005
Office Poem – Ode to a wonderful team of Site Operations (for Christmas 2002) – a great team does not buckle under – written on Friday 13 December 2002
Rusted pipes let off steam
Ducts collapsed, air leaked, basement flooded
The team huddled together like a football team
Gave battle cry, all sinews and brawn
No matter what and how many breakdowns
Oh! The great team does not buckle under.
Then came green glycol slimy slope
The team slipped and slithered all moaning
But balance maintained on the floor
The cupboard is empty shouted the seniors
RFAs, SPG notes, PowerPoint graphs
Oh! The great team does not buckle under
Randy changed shirts everyday chasing mirages
Donna donned Graphs and colored beads
Rankin went merrily turning valves and controls
Sue built cottage, Pravin replaced roofs out of thin air
Jed, Jay and Dave tiptoed into snow and diesel fuel
Oh! The great team does not buckle under
One step forward and two steps back go the progress
The rusting site services have met the match
Together the team fights all demons and deprivations
Oh! Those tiresome days and tedious, thankless tasks
A smile creeps over in my heart, a great bunch of guys
Oh! The great team does not buckle under
Office Poem – Christmas 2002
TRIBUTE TO FACILITY SPACE TECHIES
The old Company convulsed like there is no tomorrow
Managers shifted shouting hurrah to play musical chairs
Re-organization galore! Inside out and upside down
The facility group tittered on the moves, furniture and all
Landlord cried, forking invisible money for painting and carpets
She goes this way and that way, all giggles and false smiles
All in the name of color coding and copious customer connivance
Space lady shrieked joyous shout and “secured” poor slob to a cubicle!
Space selection! Devious and dubious, brought joy to her planning
Permits issued, Oh! Never mind that cubicles transformed to cottages
The reorganized site soothed happiness with mismatch all over
INFORM website, SIMs, CAFM all bringing Geek goodies galore
Midnight ghosts of the past brought moves back to the fore, Yikes!
Space costs! Space costs! Shouted the Facility Planner with no response
She trundled on, lifting the burden stoically and strutting her poise
A tribute to the Facility Space Techies who keep customers twirling happy.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Office Poem – Office Christmas Party ”“ 2003 – It’s that time again ! Challenges galore!
Date: 16th December, 2003 Location: Best Westin in Pembroke
It”™s that time again
Time for celebration! Time for reflection!
Challenges galore!
Pipe Breaks, flooding in B300 & Library building
B459 ha! ha! A by-product of Customer Survey
Embarrassing poor upkeep in B456 and broken B600 ventilation
B 138 & 466 shower water quality, all turbid & foul
From howling Customer frustrations & frowns
Believe me! A “success” in sight at the end of circular movement
Challenges galore!
Deferred! Deferred! Projects, UERs Corrective actions
Water! Water! Everywhere but nary to drink
Site Water on “tread mill” of justifications & Issue Notes
Discussions going nowhere but alas! somewhere
Management support for Road Map for Site Potable Water
Believe me! I see a “golden pot” at the end of diffused rainbow
Challenges galore!
Go there! Go where! Go! Go! Get resources and support, Go!
Tap into available opportunities to use Project funds for staffing
Site Operations staff all wonderful, hard working & committed
Who, at times, suffer my “foot in mouth” & loopy jokes
My apologies! Sincere and from bottom of my heart
Believe me! You are a warm and supportive team for confronting challenges
Challenges galore!
Bravo! For our committed focus and achievements during the year
Let us heave a collective sigh for success over the challenges
Parking areas done, roofs replaced, showers updated and lines repaired
The collective team still strong and vibrant with “team spirit” intact
Merry Christmas! Very many happy returns of the season!
Believe me! I wish you all the merriest and well-deserved holidays
Challenges galore!
It”™s that time again
Time for reflection! Time for celebration!
Challenges galore!
Office Poem – Christmas time in 2004 – written on 08 December 2004
This is the time to be jolly! Ha!! Ha!!
By golly! Aging infrastructure and aging self
Spirit wants to fly and kiss the sky
I say “ Fly, fly ” but not so lucky with bloated tummy
Walking is wobbly with no fire in the belly
Plodding to the parking area with super effort mainly
New electrical power projects jab and energize the torso
You can make it! You can make it! Goes the chorus.
Sweet 65 and yet reporting for service
Change one master for another, wow! What a choice!
This is the time to be jolly! Ha!! Ha!!
By golly! More vitamins pills and visits to doctors
Organizational change mutated Site Operations to ISS
Countless tentacles enveloping the managerial scorecard BS
Group wants to renovate and upgrade superstructure
All say yes but not so lucky with bloated bureaucracy
Corroded pipes and collapsed building roofs, all tossed
Find fire deficiencies! Regulator is coming! Goes the chorus
This is the time to be jolly! Ha!! Ha!!
By golly! More babble & cackle round the table
This is the time to be jolly!
Ho! Ho! Ho! Count your blessings silly!
It”™s time for cheer and sharing
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Office Poem – CRL Infrastructure Blues — Haiku written on 20 January 2005
1) Plant Road snaking to CRL
cracked wavy surface
Destroyed morale!
2) Researchers lab at CRL
The leaky roof
Tests ruined by rain!
3) Steam line hissing
Condensate pissing
Environment not happy!
4) Transformer T4 hissing
Alarm blaring oil leak
6000 gallons to hit the ground
5) Tap Water restricted
Bottled water to drink
How can it be a first class lab!
6) Primary Sewage Plant chug along
contaminates spouting in
Sludge hits the press
7) New bulding 701 is up
But foul air toppled lady employee
So much for work environment !
8) Honey, wake up!
Is the aging employee in the groove?
Or, the infrastructure falling apart?
9) The CNSC eyes
audit everywhere
This year!
10) Staff Churning is here!
Manager is in tether
His move to new office on atreadmill!
11) The new ISS team has landed
with All king”™s men assembled
Humpty Dumpty will get on the wall !
Office Poem – ” Change Is Constant “ written on December 2005
Not typed in the Blog.