Diwali Prayer

This year, Goddess Lakshmi, please pass by my door

There are others in need, and they deserve you more.

Take my earnings, my wealth and my pride, I pray

Let shared wealth – not my own -- glow radiant today.



Am I falsely proud, Mother? Is this illusion and lie?

Take me down, Maha Kali. Make me stand small and shy.

Come with your sword, like a sheep shear me naked

And then hold my hand, help me hold my head high.



My countrymen stand small, how can I stand tall?

Cast their fate upon me, in their midst let me fall.

And then, Mother Shakti, give me love, strength and grace

To be a guide they can trust, and a true friend to all.





Happy Diwali, my friends. I am praying for an end to our collective mania for endless economic growth, and our addiction to the rat race. I’m praying for peace, contentment and a healthy dose of reality. I humbly ask you all to join me in this prayer.



Warm Regards,

Alok Tholiya