Ode to the White Elixir

On this first of June, beneath the sun's soft ray, 

We celebrate a gift of nature, on World Milk Day. 

A tribute to the liquid white, pure and bright, 

That nourishes, delights, and gives us strength, day and night.

From the pastoral fields where cows gently graze, 

To the bustling dairies in the morning haze, 

Milk flows like a river through our lives, serene, 

A testament to a bond, timeless and pristine.

Oh, milk, you are the dawn's first light, 

In a newborn's cry, in a mother's sight. 

You are the warmth of a steaming cup, 

On a winter's night when the cold wind stirs up.

You are the foundation of morning cheer, 

In cereal bowls and coffee cups near. 

You are the secret in the baker's art, 

In cakes and breads, you play your part.

From the land where buffaloes roam free, 

To the alpine heights of the goat's decree, 

From sheep's soft wool to camel's stride, 

In diverse forms, your virtues reside.

Nourisher of bones, with calcium's might, 

You fortify us for the daily fight. 

Proteins, vitamins, in abundance found, 

In your humble vessel, life's essence is bound.

In cultures far and wide, your story is told, 

In rituals ancient, in kitchens bold. 

From butter's golden churn to cheese's delight, 

In every form, you are a wondrous sight.

Milkmaids with their pails, a pastoral scene, 

Echoing through time, serene and serene. 

A connection to earth, to animals kind, 

In your journey, humanity's bond we find.

On this day, we honor you, dear milk, 

In cartons and bottles, in jugs of silk. 

We raise our glasses, in gratitude pure, 

For your endless gifts, simple and sure.

From toddlers' sips to the elder's need, 

In every life stage, you plant your seed. 

A circle unbroken, from birth to old age, 

In your creamy embrace, life turns the page.

So here's to the farmers, the hands that toil, 

In fields and barns, in sweat and soil. 

Here's to the cows, the goats, the ewes, 

In their silent grace, they give us their dues.

On World Milk Day, let's pause and reflect, 

On the journey of milk, in all its aspects. 

A symbol of sustenance, of care and love, 

A blessing bestowed from nature above.

With every drop, a story unfolds, 

Of heritage rich, of traditions old. 

In every sip, a connection we find, 

To the earth, to each other, to all humankind.

So let's celebrate this day with heartfelt cheer, 

For milk, the elixir we hold so dear. 

In its creamy waves, let's find our way, 

To a future bright, on this World Milk Day.

- Khushi Kaul