Facebook! by V. N. Giridharan

Facebook has unveiled
the true nature of many individuals to me.
It has exposed the genuine selves of those
I once believed held revolutionary ideas.
Even when Facebook revealed the true faces of those
who loudly proclaimed they would change society,
they felt no shame, did not flee, and
continue their outcries as before.
Facebook has thoroughly exposed
many who are immersed in petty desires and false pride.
Cowards, hiding their identities, perform as heroes;
Facebook has revealed these cowards
who fear showing their faces.
It has made me understand
the depth of friendship among many
who roamed under the guise of being friends.
Facebook has pointed out
the good snakes that display venom within
and sweet smiles outside.

Poem: A Library’s Dream and Thoughtful Immersion by V. N. Giritharan

On this wondrous blue planet,
No matter which direction I gaze,
I witness it engulfed in flames of conflict.
Outside, you collide with one another,
Clashing incessantly.
I see rivers of blood swelling and surging.
Your frenzied games make it evident
That children, women, the elderly—none hold value to you.
I feel ashamed thinking of you.
Observing your antics, as if you are the rulers of this universe,
I can only laugh.
Before you lies a vast expanse.
Yet, seeing you buried in profound silence,
Noticing your solitude,
I am filled with pity for you.​

The Importance of Children's Sections in Newspapers: Reflecting on the Toronto Star's 'Brand New Planet'

Once, the Toronto Star published a weekly supplement for children aged 9 to 14, called Brand New Planet, every Thursday. My eldest daughter contributed to that paper while she was in elementary school. It was a wonderful publication that served children well. I'm not sure why the Toronto Star stopped publishing it. In my view, every newspaper should reserve a few pages for children to encourage them to improve their writing and reading skills.