I do not want war, for I have a selfish need

I do not want war, for I wish to honor my greed

For I wish to paint the sand, the sky and the sea

And not the portraits of martyrs who could no longer be

I do not want war, for I wish to travel around

I do not want war, for I loath stepping on barren ground

For I wish to test the fragrance of every flower I pass

As I run and roam barefoot on fresh green grass

I do not want war, for I much long to write

I do not want war, for I wish not to pen a fight

For I long to describe the sun on my face

As his rays brighten my world with grace

I do not want war, not just as a pray for some noble need

I ask not for war, to quench my very own greed

For I wish not to live in a land ringing with cries

Of orphaned children with tears brimming their eyes

They say the choice of war is not fit to condemn

For they claim to have made this choice not just for them

They say war is a choice made by men most wise

Who wish for naught but their countries to rise

And to the men in power making this selfless choice

Pray, I dare ask you to hear my voice

I have come to say, out of my selfish plea

I must ask you to not make my decisions for me

I have asked not for war, I will ask not for death

And I ask not to borrow a choiceless soldier’s breath

And if this paltry plea rings selfish to thee

Then besmirch me a selfish woman and so let me be

-Veda Samhita

11/8/2025