Two Years - A Poem Dedicated to Dear Appuppan

Baby Ananyaa with Appuppan

Today marks two years since my grandfather or Appuppan as I call him, left us for his heavenly abode. Last year, I used this time to reflect on his life as I saw it. Since writing is one of my predominant ways of reflecting, I wrote about my memories of Appuppan and the qualities he had which inspire me in a blog post.

This year, I was contemplating what I should do in honor of Appuppan as we remember him. Although there are still so many stories I am yet to write about, I didn't think I was in the frame of mind to craft something like last year. However, when thinking about it a bit more, I thought of an idea that changed my mind.

Appuppan was someone who always motivated me to try new things. Whether it be in introducing me to new ideas, trying new foods (i.e. mixing rasam and moru), or supporting my varied interests, he never stood in the way of pursuing what made me happy. Appuppan especially encouraged me in my love for creative endeavors, as he had an interest in them too. From letting me create messy watercolor artwork as a kid to supporting me when starting this blog, he found happiness in my little joys. So, when I was thinking of what I could do in memory Appuppan, I came up with a proposition for myself. I decided that each year, in Appuppan's honor, I would do something creative. It doesn't have to be anything major or even need to be in writing. It just needs to be an activity that allows me to be creative while also remembering Appuppan as I do it.

As part of this year's creative journey, I decided to write a poem after several years. When I was younger, I used to enjoy writing poems all the time. However, in the last few years, I diverted more toward prose through essays, articles, and blog posts. I have been meaning to try to write more poems and I figured it would be appropriate to try now. Keeping that in mind, I decided I would write a poem marking the two years that have passed and my feelings today. It's simple and amateur in nature (also written at 2 AM), but it helped me find my peace on an otherwise sad day. Through this process, I was able to challenge myself and hopefully, I can become better at writing poems in the future.

Below, you can find my poem for Appuppan - a best friend, doting grandfather, loving soul, and so much more.

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Two years, two blinks,

A blur of links.

Memories so close yet seemingly far,

Thinking you aren’t here just feels bizarre.

You keep making visits to all our lives,

In laughs, in meals, and in photo archives.

You need no tickets, planes, or cars,

To come light up our days with a million shining stars.

They say time will heal,

I’m not sure how I feel.

The tears are still warm but so are the smiles,

It feels like we’ve traveled thousands of miles.

One more hug, a last kiss goodbye,

It’s hard not to wish for a chance to reunify.

I miss your supportive voice and the stories you told,

You smiled gently and had a heart of gold.

No matter how many years swiftly pass by,

You’ll always be cherished in unlimited supply.

You’re seen in the eyes of those who honor you,

You live on in the hearts of those you knew.

We think of you ever so often,

Recollections filled with passion.

A passing butterfly or a song you love,

Reminds us to look above.

I pray you’re at peace and surrounded by light,

We hold onto the memories and bonds that are tight.

Your beautiful life is one I’m proud to have witnessed,

I hope I can live one that’s nearly as earnest.

Until we meet again, we wait,

Creating more memories and stories to narrate.

Remembering you fondly, wherever you are,

You’ll always be our superstar.

- Ananyaa (or "kochu kunju" meaning "little child" as Appuppan used to call me often)