I seek after so many desires, and you save me by your denial –
This, your hardhearted favor earned, I have accrued all my life.
All that you have given me already: skies and light, body, mind and life,
For these gifts divine, you make me worthier through each passing day,
Saving me from the perils of an over-desiring heart.
When I walk halfhearted on your paths,
You cruelly remove yourself from my sights.
This is but your kindness, I know, sigh;
You turn me away yet only to receive me.
You lead this life into fullness, to be worthy of your communion,
Saving me from the perils of a half-willing heart.
— Rabindranath Tagore (“আমি বহু বাসনায়”, ft. Sahana Bajpaie)
(Caveat: See this note for this kind of poetic translation.)
For VK—
Delhi, Pauṣa Śukla Pratipada,
The 24th of December in 2022.