We Are No Different from Moths

We see the moth

fly close to the flame

and think it must be foolish

to come so near fire

with such flimsy wings.

But we forget—

we are no different.

This man avoids milk tea,

saying it doesn’t suit him.

But when he comes to our house,

his heavy perfume

chokes my windpipe.

He says mutton curry

worsens his gout,

so, he takes medicine.

Yet that spicy meat

stays regular in his diet.

I have seen him

drink alcohol

and smoke.

He says he is trying to be fit,

that he plays sports,

but above are still his habits,

self-sabotaging.

Do you think we are different

from the moth

hovering around the flame?

I don’t think so.