Tukaram, Poem 13

I am a cripple, O God, in hands and feet; I am seated on a self-willed mount; if I spur him, he will not see fences, hedges, stumps of trees or holes. I have none to lean on, either father or mother. O generous people, bestow a gift on me, I am going to Pandharpura; convey me there, O friend of the feeble! I have wandered on my crutches from door to door till I am quite worn out. I find none to relieve me or save me from the pains of mortal life. Let Hari show me that power which the saints extol; he who dwells at Pandharpura gives limbs to the cripple. For the sake of my belly I have become dependent on the world. My cries of “mother and father” procure me nothing; there is no lack of contempt for me. Some say, “Move on!” they feel no pity; the dogs attack me. Many fierce desires possess me. I know not what faults I have committed in time gone by; I know nothing of my merits or demerits, I recollect nothing of them. I have lost all my wits, like a moth that flutters round a lamp. Give me in some measure the gift of life, O ye that are holy and deep in experience. I have travelled far, I have suffered harrowing pain; this was the purpose that brought me here. Hard it is to find you, but I have met you; I have greeted your feet. I, Tuka, fold my hands and make my bow to the saints.