The lap of water against the shores
Stirring shells and pebbles in its wake,
Glistening drops of tears in the moonlight
As she sighs and heaves adding to the lull.
The beautiful face comes to mind
As she remembers holding the tiny hands.
Eyes that never opened to the world,
Swaddled in nothing but stillness.
A child herself, she gave birth
On a dark moon, the pain turned into wails;
As she beheld the babe who never cried
He was ashen and tranquil amidst the lamentations.
Her mother was the doula;
She did her best, she knew.
Helping new mothers in the village
An expert, coach and helper.
Her son was a responsibility bestowed on her
Which she sought to shoulder responsibility.
Maybe it was for the best, she thought
She has years to go before she is an adult.
Wiping her tears, she got up
Laid her son’s ashes in the water.
The sea lapped it up and carrying it far away
She lingered on the shore till she could see no more.

Biography
Chitra is a health care leader with over 10 years of experience as a clinician, educator and administrator. She brings international experience, having trained and worked in the UK as apaediatrician and as a patient liaison officer.
Chitra is a firm believer in integrated health care, providing better access and equitable care for all. She is focused on improving maternal and child health, and plans to work for the World Health Organization one day.
In her spare time, she likes to spend time outdoors: gardening and hiking with family and friends. She also enjoys painting, poetry, baking and practicing mindfulness.