I learnt to derive
Joy from pain
When my painful
Twitches were relished with joy

I learnt to take
Whim with a grace
When my spat and slaps on your face
Were insulting and hurting

I learnt to acquire
Tolerance of mischief
When my tender suckling teeth
Were piercing your bosom

I learnt to give
Love to suffering
When your convulsed lap
Was swinging putting me to calm

I learnt to be selfless
Helping the deprived
When instantly your arms
Were lifting me from a fall

I learnt to be assertive
Sensible to sentiments
When my unbearable bustle
Was handled by you with assertion

I learnt to face
Insult with restraint
When my teacher’s admonitions
Were accepted by you for my sake

I learnt to shed
Tears in emotion
When the tears in your eyes
Were flowing after seeing me hurt

I learnt to live
Life to serve
When you served all that remained
Only due to your unconditional love

Now I understand
Mother's need in life as a sum
When I had to teach my son
Only a mother can be all in one