Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa
One hand flying a kite, mouth busy chewing a treat, the whole day spent in little pleasures — and then, at the end, tied to it all, unable to let go. It is easier to carry a light heart when we do not clutch too tightly at passing things.
Enjoy the good things in life, but hold them lightly.
Haath ta dor mukh khaa-i-o tambor — a kite string in the hand, a betel leaf to chew in the mouth. Tambor is betel leaf, a treat people chewed. These are pictures of a life full of little fun things.
Martee baar kas baadhi-o chor — at the end, they are tied up tight, like thieves. It is a strong picture. Its point is clinging. It shows how hard it is to let go of what we held too tightly. It is not about being punished.
Think of a kid holding a kite string so tight it cuts into their hand. The kite is wonderful. Just do not let the string tie you up. Enjoy the kite, and keep your grip loose.
What is something you enjoy that you could hold a little more lightly?
Translation by Dr. Sant Singh Khalsa·How we use AI