That Girl On The Terrace

Everyday she was abused at home,
She was locked up; not allowed to roam.
Her mother breathed for the last time
when her father was charged with a crime.
She was reared up by her cruel uncle,
who never permitted her, to see the stars twinkle.
Tears dried up; heart never failed to ache,
Her days used to end with just a piece of cake.
She would run up the stairs, with a tear-stained face,
People noticed and pointed out, “See, that girl on the terrace.”

Days , months and years passed,
No one could remember, where they saw her last.
She had gone missing just at the age of eleven,
Her uncle was relieved to get rid of that burden.
13 years got over, everyone forgot her face.
Nobody could find that girl on the terrace.

On one fine day, there was an important announcement,
Saying that a flat race competition was being conducted by government.
Participants of various religions and different ages,
Were going to represent their cities and villages.
All of them were ready for the race to begin
The third participant held a brighter hope to win.

It was time to start and the whistle was blown
The judges were ready to judge the best power shown.
Hearts beating loudly, drops of sweat counted every second,
The brighter pair of eyes was fixed on the trophy, even if others threatened.
Time was over, and also the patience,
All continued to pray for the best, in silence.
Chief Guest stood up to declare the names,
“Winning and losing are part of all games",
And then… The winner's name was called
The third participant was astounded and enthralled.
Tears rolled down her sweet face,
She was that abused girl, who stood on the terrace.
People who hated and always made her sad,
On seeing her that day, helplessly became glad.
No one knew where she was all these years,
Her story was untold... Happiness took away her tears…