Hunger

There are two dogs in my father's home. One guarding at the front gates, and one guarding the backyard. They are almost always tied to a pole, and food dumped into their bowls every afternoon. They are fierce to strangers - and can pounce with such aggression. As my visits are sporadic, we are considered strangers too.

That day, the entire family set out for a trip. As we left early in the morning, my mom prepared the dogs food, placed it in a covered vessel and left it out - informing Gangakka to share the food between the two dogs a little later. This is to ensure that the dogs are fed at adequate intervals, so that they don't stay hungry till our return. 

We realized on return that night that the dog in the backyard had untied itself from the pole (which is actually a tree), and was fiercely barking. There's a short gate separating at the mid yard, and the poor guy couldn't get over it. I peeked above the gate, and saw such fury in his eyes. Such fury: aggressive, uncontrollable, and fierce - a nightmare to deal with. Already having a good acquaintance with him, my mom braved to get him under control - to tie him back onto the pole. The dog was the object of condemnation - he got severely chastised for his behavior. 

After successfully tying him at his abode, mom returned to only note that Gangakka had not served either of the dogs any food. Mom again braved to pick his bowl and serve his food. On a subsequent observation to serve another bowl of food , he was calm - quiet as a breeze. His eyes as cool as the lake waters.

The following days, I was treated with a new found respect and a fresh fondness. 

Hunger is a menace. Hunger exhibits fierce. We are all subservient to hunger, just like the dog. It also includes hunger for food, knowledge, approvals, love, people and passion, among others.