A career bright to the winds he threw
And the weal of wealth which was his due!

Oh, fight miseries he felt he ought
So the pleasure of pain he bravely sought!

The world’s exile, oh, he could bear –
His heart was full of love and care!

The disease dreaded dared he face –
He wanted now to plead their case!

He traveled east the cure to learn
And grew himself before return!

Himself, a guinea pig he gave
To save others he became brave!

He let the germs invade his life
To find a way to end the strife!

He knew he had someone to care;
Father Damien stood inspiring there!

His inner voice, oh, was his guide –
What fear one feels when by its side? !

So strong was he – the germs were slain
Oh, yet it went not all in vain!

The sacrifice had lit a lamp
Which lighted areas dark and damp!

Efforts to find a vaccine fell
But his valiant will, oh, rang a bell!

Thus many a shattered life then got
A Savior when his soul he sought!

Oh, as the poet said, see, he
When found his brethren found all three!

He found his Brother, God and Soul!
He found his life’s mission, his goal!

Kannan G

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/f-baba-amte-1994-the-sacred-sacrifice/