In the midst of abundance
Restraint is of the essence
Strict rules about what to eat
How much and when, to defeat
The temptation that is omnipresent
Food is unlimited in extent
Almost everywhere, unless
You happen to be in the wilderness
The thrifty gene makes us gravitate
Towards food that indulges our palate
Sugary, fat-containing, calorie-dense
Foods attract us the most, hence
We try to exercise self-control
Deprivation becomes the goal
Food should be perceived as nourishment
Instead, meal-time equates to punishment
When you have calories to count, plates to fill
The Epicurean delight of eating is killed
Despite consuming food that healthy appears
Its benefits are diluted by many (often baseless) fears
Fear of weight gain, or inability to lose weight
Leads to a perpetually deprived mental state
Overindulgence results in guilt profound
You look for solace and comfort around
What can be more comforting than food
It fills your senses and life feels good
For a short while until guilt regains prominence
Brings back deprivation in the midst of abundance
(Image shows “Chhappan Bhog” or 56 dishes presented to Lord Krishna, a Hindu deity)
Passion...unbridled 