CANDLE IN THE HOLLOW OF THE COCONUT SHELL

CANDLE POWER IN A COCONUT SHELL

Drawing in crayon by Tony Fernandes

                 Reminiscing poignantly of peace and harmony that our folks dwelt in, and celebrated and enjoyed salves, vespers and feasts galore in the days of yore. Prior to the start of the Vesper Services, an orchestra played in front of the the church – or at the band-stand. Young boys would vie for the sheer pleasure of holding the notation sheets for the musicians. They were also anxiously looking forward for the fireworks at the end of the vespers.

                 Walking home after the vespers in the night was a delightful moment, an experience that I still cherish. Some people carried battery-operated flash-lights, while my grandma improvised with a candle lit in the hollow of the coconut shell.

The night seemed solemn,

quiet and tranquil;

Starlit sky a real delight

In the darkness

On our way home

Holding a candle

Lit in the hollow of a coconut shell

Led us on our familiar path;

And folks from the houses along the way

Wished us a pleasant night.

(Excerpt from my book: GOA - Memories of My Homeland)

Poems, Stories, Photographs, Drawings)