As I step out
In the morning
On my way to work
Clutching my bag and
Disobedient hair,
I am aware of
myriad patterns
of light and shade -
under the old oak,
rainwater flowing
down the sloping roof
into my neighbour’s
koi pond,
the feral cat sprawling
on my car’s hood
challenging my ownership,
floating in a puddle
on the road -
finally, a rainbow!
Vidya Hariharan is an avid reader, traveller, published poet and teacher. She recently was shortlisted for the Editor’s Choice Award for her haiku from Under the Basho in 2024. Currently she resides in Mumbai, India.